The Receiving Line – Should You Have One or Not?

Long ago, the wedding party surrounded the bride and groom to ward off evil spirits as guests wished them well. These days, the wedding party – along with the parents of the bride and groom – gather into a receiving line is a way to greet your wedding guests. After all, they’ve taken the time to witness your vows. Make sure they realize you appreciate seeing them.

The most common way to form a receiving line?

Immediately after being pronounced husband and wife, you and your new spouse march down the aisle with attendants in tow,  and everyone takes their place in the foyer or outside, if weather permits. Parents of the couple should be the first of the congregation to exit the church, congratulate the couple and join the lineup. 

A receiving line is usually formed with the bride and groom in the middle and parents on either side. Place the groom’s parents next to the groom, and the bride’s parents next to the bride.

Next, position the groomsmen on the groom’s side, and the bridesmaids on the bride’s side. By this time, the ushers will be ready to begin dismissing guests, pew by pew, beginning with the pews closest to the front of the church.

However, about 85% of weddings skip this tradition because guests get upset standing in a long receiving line, and also because today’s couples prefer to greet everyone in a different way.

Instead of the traditional receiving line, the bride and groom do the job of the ushers and dismiss guests from the church. The couple turns to face the congregation and marches down the aisle following the ceremony, taking a moment with their parents once they are ushered out, and then the couple returns to the front of the church. As each row of guests is dismissed from their pew, the newlyweds greet them. Begin with the front row on the bride’s side of the church, and then alternate back and forth until you reach the last pews.

What should you say to your guests as you greet each one?

A simple “Hello” is a great way to get started. Thank you guests for coming. Introduce them to your spouse or your parents.

How much time should you estimate for spending in the receiving line? As long as you keep the greetings short and sweet, you should budget 30 minutes for every 100 guests.

Whether you choose a traditional receiving line or greeting each pew as it is dismissed, it’s important to take the time to acknowledge each guest, thank them for coming, and give them a chance to feel like they were a vital part of your wedding day.

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