Selecting the proper order for entering a wedding reception can feel overwhelming for engaged couples. However, following a few guidelines based on tradition, practicality, and other considerations can help determine the ideal processional order.
The Basics
Typically, the wedding party and family members enter the reception space first so that they are in place before the newlyweds make their grand entrance. The parents of the bride and groom are usually announced first since they are hosting the event. From there, the members of the wedding party enter in pairs according to their relationship to the bride or groom.
Traditional Order
Here is a typical order for the wedding party processional:
| Ushers or Groomsmen |
| Bridesmaids |
| Maid of Honor |
| Best Man |
| Ring Bearer |
| Flower Girl |
After the wedding party is situated, the bride and groom make their grand entrance to applause and fanfare from their family and friends.
Modifications and Considerations
While the traditional order provides a good starting point, couples may want to modify the processional order based on their specific circumstances.
Honoring Family
Some couples choose to have immediate family such as siblings or grandparents enter the reception line before the rest of the wedding party. This allows them to be seated quickly so they can watch the couple’s entrance.
Age of Attendants
If there are very young ring bearers or flower girls, couples may opt to have them enter last before the bride and groom. This prevents long wait times for small children.
Same-Sex Couples
For same-sex couples, the order can be modified so that each partner enters with their corresponding wedding party.
Second Marriages
For second weddings, any children from previous relationships are often included in the processional. They may enter just before or after the couple’s grand entrance.
Announcing Names
In addition to the order, couples need to decide if they want the DJ or emcee to announce the names of the wedding party and family as they enter the reception. Some considerations for named announcements include:
- Length of the names – avoid excessive long names that are hard to announce
- Pronunciation – provide phonetic spellings for difficult names
- Relationship details – include parents, children, sibling roles, etc.
- Volume – ensure announcements can be clearly heard
Timing
Proper timing is crucial when coordinating the reception entrances. Things to factor in include:
- Guest arrivals – only start entrances once the majority of guests have been seated
- Bridal party photos – allow enough time for photos between ceremony and reception entrances
- Grand entrance song – pick an appropriate intro song length for the newlyweds’ entrance
- Speeches – schedule any welcome speeches or blessings directly after the bride and groom enter
Reception Introductions
Once inside the reception area, the emcee or DJ will often introduce the newlyweds as they share their first dance:
- “For the first time as husband and wife, please welcome Mr. and Mrs. Smith!”
- “Let’s welcome the new Mr. and Mr. Johnson-Adams!”
- “Here making their grand entrance, John and Jane Doe!”
This formal introduction adds to the excitement and celebration of the couple’s arrival.
Grand Exit
Finally, at the end of the wedding reception, the bride and groom will make their grand exit. Traditional options include:
- Farewell circle – guests form a circle around the dance floor as the couple dances to a final song
- Sparkler farewell – guests make a sparkler arch or tunnel for the couple to walk through
- Flower farewell – guests shower the couple with flower petals as they depart
- Ribbon wands – guests wave ribbons or sparklers to send off the couple
The exit provides one last opportunity to honor the newly married couple before they depart for their honeymoon.
Conclusion
Determining the ideal reception entrance order requires consideration of tradition, personal preferences, and practical details. While the standard processional provides a helpful guideline, couples can customize the order and other elements to suit their unique wedding style and needs. With some advance planning and coordination, couples can craft a memorable reception introduction for their special day.