Order of Service
When it comes to planning your wedding day, there seems to be much confusion about the general order of service for events. While it's really up to each couple how their big day is structured for example omitting readings or shifting events around to suit, we've outlined a sample order of service below to help you pick and choose the events you'll include or eschew and how to structure your day.
Ceremony
Ushers arrive 45 minutes before the ceremony, followed by the Groom and Groomsmen 30 minutes before
Ushers seat Bride’s friends and family to the left and Groom’s to the right
Groom, Groomsmen and officiant take their places
Prelude music
Bridesmaids enter, followed by the Flower Girl(s) and Page Boy
Bride arrives with her Father
Officiant announces the purpose of the gathering
Hymn song or music
First reading
Introduction to vows
Vows
Exchange of Rings
The Big Kiss
Officiant reflects on meaning of marriage
Second reading
Signing of register
Closing word
Recessional
Bridal party departs for photos while the guests mingle with drinks and canapés or head off to the reception venue (if it is somewhere other than the ceremony venue)
Reception
Cocktails in first ½ hour of the reception / Pictures of the wedding party
The Receiving Line
Introduction of the Wedding Party by the MC
Lunch/Dinner
Speeches and Toasts * the Best Man, * the Father of the Groom, * the Father of the Bride, * the Groom, and finally; * the Maid of Honour
Dancing
Cake Cutting Ceremony
Bouquet and Garter Toss
Departure of the Bridal Couple
Departure of the guests