Wedding Guide

Wedding Etiquette & Formalities

There can sometimes be confusion over who sits and stands where.  We will clarify for you the traditional formality of the top table and the receiving Line.

The Receiving Line

First in line for greeting is the Mother of the Bride
Father of the Bride
Groom’s Mother
Father of the Groom
Bride
Bridegroom
Chief Bridesmaid
Last in line for Greeting is the Best Man
Any other Person(s) i.e. Children

The Top Table

Facing from the front of the Top table, left hand side, is the Minister
Father of the Groom
Mother of the Bride
Best Man
Bridegroom
Bride
Chief Bridesmaid
Father of the Bride
Mother of the Groom
Facing from the front of the Top table, Right Hand Side is any other Bridesmaid

The Speeches

These, like everything else, follow a disciplined order of tradition, however rules can be broken!

First Speech

The Father of the Bride will toast the Bride and Bridegroom, also welcome the guests

Second Speech

The Bridegroom will follow with a toast to the bridesmaids

Third and Final Speech

The Best Man will finish by giving thanks on behalf of the bridesmaids and himself
On occasion, at the less traditional wedding, it has been known for the Bride to have the last word with a fourth speech!!