Are you a new wedding planner unsure of everything you should be doing at the reception? Today I’m sharing part 1 of the wedding planners role at receptions.

I love sharing everything I know with new and aspiring wedding planners so you can be successful in your planning career!

Today, I’m sharing the wedding planners role at seated dinner receptions.

Wedding Planner’s Role at Receptions Part 1 – Seated Dinner Receptions

• When the couple arrives at the reception pull the couple into a side room to bustle the brides dress, remove her veil and change her shoes (if this applies)
• Cue the band or DJ to let them know the couple has arrived and is ready to be announced. They can go into the first dance from here or they can wait and dance after dinner.
• Toasts begin. The toast generally happens after everyone is seated and the first course has been served. The best man starts the toast and gives his speech, followed by the maid of honor. The couple responds (the groom usually responds to the best man, but why not let the bride say something too?), and then parents and other guests can say a few words as well.
• Once cocktails are finished, the couple and wedding party have been announced, and the first dance is over (if you’ve chosen to dance before the meal), dinner should be served. Generally, not much more than half an hour should have passed since guests entered the main reception room.
• At a seated dinner, the cake is cut just before dessert is served. Cue the band or DJ to announce the cake cutting – the couple will proceed to the cake and their parents and attendants will gather around. Make sure the photographer and cinematographer are there before they start cutting the cake.
• The first thing they will do is “pretend” like the are cutting the cake by:
  • The groom will pick up the cake knife and place it on the cake like he is cutting it or vice versa. Then the bride will place her hand on top of his so they are “pretending” like they are cutting the cake. Then they both look up at the photographer for a picture.
  • Then they actually cut the cake and feed each other. (I have found it tends to be easier if the director cuts the cake for the couple before they come over to the cake table. You can just cut it so it’s easier for them to pick it up
  • After they feed each other they pick up their toasting glasses and drink from the glasses with their arms intertwined for a photo. You can instruct them on each step in this process
• After they cut the wedding cake they do the same thing at the groom’s cake except they can omit the toast here.
• After the bride and groom cut the cakes the caterer will then cut the cakes to serve guests. Make sure they do this or remind them it’s time if they don’t come right over

xo, Terrica