You can change the sequence of your reception as there is no special order. You can delete any custom that you don't wish to do. Every wedding is different, so make your own decision. However, I'm giving you a list of events that you can incorporate into your wedding reception if you want.

1. You and your husband arrive at the reception with your bridal party.

2. You might freshen up a bit or maybe have a drink and get into position for the receiving line and start receiving your guests. Probably your guests will mingle with each other, may be have a drink and eat delicious food ~ hors d'oeuves.

3. After a while the MC introduces the wedding party. The traditional order ~ bride's parents, groom's parents, bridesmaid and groomsmen in couples, maid of honor, best man, flower girl, ring bearer and lastly the newliweds!

4. Bride and Groom 1st- dance. You can have it now or after the speeches. However, if your photographer is only staying a short time, it might be good to get the 1st dance completed so the photographer can get some good shots.

5.Before eating the bestman gives his speech to the bride and groom.

6.If you invited your clergy to your reception, he will say grace before eating.

7.If you are having more than 4 speeches, they may be made between the courses if you wish. Or have all speeches in succession after you finish your meal.

8.If you haven't had your 1st dance as a married couple, do it now. If you have already danced, then you and the wedding party start dancing. Sometime have a parent's dance. HINT ~ Try not to stop your DJ too often, as you'll find it hard to get all the people back on the dancefloor again.

9. The cake can be cut anytime you want ~ you don't have to announce it. Just make sure the photographer and video person are not blocked, as you'll want these photos for your wedding album.

10. Call all the single girls and toss your bouquet to them. Let your husband take your bridal garter and toss it!

11. Getting late? Having a late night buffet? Let's get it going.

12. Change into your going-away clothes. Have your last dance. Say goodnight to everyone and leave. Honeymoon starts now!!

You should plan on having your wedding party start packing anything that is left behind and has to be removed from the reception area. ################################################

>Ashlee Williams, is the editor of several online wedding sites, where you are given ideas and resources on how to plan your fabulous wedding without going over your budget! Check out my sites ~ Betlee Bridals or Weddings By Ashlee

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