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How does a Receiving Line work
If you're not sure what you should say or do in the receiving line and want to keep your greeting brief, the following points should help clarify.
- Depending on the level of formality - guests will either introduce themselves to the receiving line or should be introduced by a toastmaster/master of ceremonies.
- Once introduced, guests should say how they know the bride and groom.
- The greeter should shake hands or kiss the guest on the left cheek and thank them for coming before introducing them to the next person in line for example "Sarah (guest), let me introduce you to James - the best man."
nofreetime tips
- Don't use the receiving line as a chance to catch up because you won't have time. Keep things brief as you welcome and thank them for coming.
- Give your ushers the responsibility to guide guests to the receiving line, keep the line moving and prevent any bottlenecks. As a new set of guests are introduced, so the previous set will need to move along.
- Ask the best man to take responsibility for moving guests away from the line by pointing them in the direction of drinks or their table.
- Think carefully before including children in the receiving line - unless they're old enough, they are more likely to fidget.