Time: 60 min

This is the perfect idea for being a great host. As the newlyweds won’t be able to attend much of the cocktail hour, it’s still a great idea for their guests to mingle and enjoy some appetizers and drinks. Check out my Ideal Wedding Timeline to see how much cocktail hour may be needed based on how many formal photos are needed after the ceremony. Having a separate location for the cocktail hour is perfect for the photographers to get some great images of the bride and groom getting a first look at the hall before guests.

Time: 10-15 min

Completely based on how many guests are in attendance, the DJ or wedding coordinator will instruct guests on where to sit. How many guests you have in attendance is the majority variable of how your timeline is set up through the day.

Time: 5-10 min

This sets the tone of your reception. It can either be epic with some great theme music, classic with a bit of twirling, or fun with some custom dance moves from each in the bridal party. The more excited this is, the more excited your guests are to get the party started.

Time: 5-10 min

I love the first dance right after the entrance because it guarantees every is already in their seats and everyone has their eyes on the bride and groom which makes their first dance all the more special. Some will jump right into the father daughter and mother son dance but I prefer to to right into the next part first.

Time: 5-10 min

Perfect time to thank your guests for coming and to introduce the meal. This can be done by the couple or their parents.

Time: 60 min

Grabbing your food first is not only a well known fact, but it also ensures you and go around and great all of your tables once you’ve finished your meal before having to do toasts or cake cutting. Standard is 60 minutes but it helps to know how many tables you’ll have and to allocate 3-5 minutes per table. We take our break when you do since no one want photos of themselves eating. That way when you make your rounds, we can be there to capture moments with you.

Time: 15-20 min

Now that everyone’s stomach is full they can sit back, relax and listen to some great stories from your maid of honor and best man. Sometimes others not in the wedding party would like to say a word.

Time: 5-10 min

I prefer this happens right after toasts and food. That way the cake can be sent back to be cut while the floor opens up to dance. It also helps for the elderly guests to grab some desserts in case they need to exit a litter earlier.

Time: 10-15 min

Now that the cake is being cut and the floor hasn’t been opened up yet, this is a great time to do your family dances.

Time: 45-60 min

Now more of the fun can begin! A great way to start this off is to have a wedding party dance and throughout the song, they bring guests onto the floor. Now it’s the entertainments job to keep them out there! After a little while this would be a great time to initiate the garter and bouquet toss.

Time: 15-25 min

Now that the floor is open, all the highlights have been done, and you’ve greeted guests, this is a time for the newlyweds to take a break. I love being able to take time during the reception for some creative night shots. They are a whole different style in themselves and should not be missed!

Time: 30 min

At this time of night, the music gets louder and the lights get more colorful. Make sure to enjoy it!

Time: 10-15 min

There is NO reason for the couple to be the last ones to leave their reception. In my experience, they should be the one of the firsts to leave. No cleaning up, no giving anyone else a ride. Newlyweds need to be sent out in fashion and what better way than with a grand exit!? The DJ will usher everyone to where they need to be and sparklers are the first choice for a send off. You can also use glow sticks if sparklers aren’t allowed.