Receiving Line Etiquette

The receiving line developed from the ancient belief that brides and grooms had the power to spread good luck among wedding guests on the day of the ceremony. Specifically, they shared that good luck through touch. Each wedding guest was given a chance to press hands with the bride and groom.

In modern times, many brides and grooms wonder who's in the receiving line. This can vary, depending on who hosted the wedding and who participated in the wedding. Some receiving lines are made up only of females with the exception of the groom, so you might have a receiving line like this: MOB, bride, groom, bridesmaid, bridesmaid, bridesmaid. If nothing else, the bride and groom must take part. The most common receiving lines are made up of the parents of the bride and groom, the bride and groom themselves, and their attendants. Sometimes attendants do not participate -- this is for the best, we think, as longer receiving lines can eat into the reception!

Why have a receiving line? Many couples often pass on this and prefer to "make the rounds" greeting their guests during the wedding dinner. A receiving line gives you and your new spouse a chance to greet each and every one of your wedding guests and gives your guests a chance to hug and congratulate you on your new life status. If you're uncomfortable with the idea of greeting each of your guests, just remember that they have come to your wedding to honor you, and saying hello to each of them is the least you can do in return.


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