The Receiving Line

The purpose of the receiving line is for the parents, bride, and groom to greet the guests and receive their good wishes. The parents and wedding couple may choose to circulate through the reception hall instead of holding a receiving line, however, the receiving line is usually a more efficient way to greet everyone. Traditionally, the mother is the first to greet guests followed in order by the groom's mother, the bride, the groom, the maid or matron of honor, and the bridesmaids. If the fathers wish to join the line, each stands to the left of his wife.