Weddings Devon

Marriages are happy family occasions and should not be restrained by unwanted procedures, but having said that there are certain customs that are expected and nice to observe. Traditionally, the main purpose of the reception is to receive and welcome the guests and to afford the opportunity to introduce and meet both sides of each family. Whenever possible, both sets of parents and the bride and groom should be at the reception in order to meet their guests upon arrival, but this is sometimes prevented by the need for photographs after the ceremony.

As soon as possible, either in the assembly area or prior to entering the dining hall, the toastmaster will arrange a receiving line and introduce the guests by name to their hosts. The order in the line is usually: the bride's mother and father; the groom's mother and father; with the bride and groom standing a little way apart. This is not the time for a lengthy conversation, but a quick word of congratulation, compliment or thanks. At some weddings, due to the design of the premises or number of guests, a formal line is just not practical, in which case the bride's mother acts as host, while the bride and groom circulate freely among the guests.

Once this formality is over, the guests will be asked by the toastmaster to take their seats for the meal. There will most likely be a seating plan and name settings at each place with the bride and groom, their parents, the bridesmaids and the best man occupying the top table. The toastmaster will then announce the arrival of the bride and groom and escort them to their places, whilst the guests stand and applaud.