Hello all! I trust you all are doing well and staying safe!
For the last few posts, I’ve been sharing sample programs. First, we looked at the sample run of show for a Ghanaian traditional ceremony, then we looked at a two sample Western wedding ceremony programs. So if you have not checked those out, I highly recommend reading those first.
From the ceremony, guests head to the cocktail hour. Generally, there is no formal program here, just small chops and chatting between guests. The couple often uses this time to take a few pictures, rest their feet, and/or spend some quiet time together.
After the cocktail hour, it’s reception time! Receptions can take so many different shapes and forms. I would like to share with you my favorite run of show for a wedding reception:
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Opening Prayer
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Wedding party entrance
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Couple dances are not mandatory (lol). The whole crew can come in together. Another idea is all of the ladies coming in together followed by all of the gents coming in together
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Bride & Groom entrance
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Bride & Groom First Dance
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after you enter, you might as well go right into the first dance before you sit down for dinner
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Dinner
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Maid of Honor/Best Man Speeches & Toast
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I generally recommend that speeches start about 10 minutes after the last dinner plate is served or after the last person visits the buffet so that the cake can be cut and served not too long after everyone finishes their meal
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Cutting of Cake
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Father/Daughter & Mother/Son Dances
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dances can begin as individuals are finishing their cake
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Bouquet/Garter Toss
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Getting folks up for these tosses tends to get them warmed up to dance, this is why I recommend that it’s one of the last things on the program
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Remarks from Couple (optional)
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Dance, Dance!
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Closing prayer
Ladies and gents, I hope this gives you a good idea of the run of show for a wedding reception. Once again this is only an example and not the rule. I encourage you to take this and shake it up. Your wedding ceremony and reception should be a reflection of YOUR love and a representation of who you and your spouse are.
That’s all for today friends! Please comment below or send me a DM via Instagram (@sugarrushbyportia) letting me know what topics you would like for me to cover next!
Toodles for now, SugarBees! <3
