After the wedding ceremony, the fun is just beginning. 

While the formal vows are exchanged and the couple is officially wed, the celebration continues with a host of exciting events. 

What happens after the wedding ceremony is what makes the day unforgettable for the couple and their guests. 

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll break down what typically happens after the wedding ceremony, from post-ceremony photos to the final send-off.

Let’s dive into the wedding reception timeline and explore the traditions and celebrations that follow!

Related: How to Pick a Show-Stopping Second Dress for Your Wedding Reception

The First Moments After the Ceremony

The Recessional March and Exit

Once the vows are exchanged, the couple walks back down the aisle as newlyweds. 

This marks the beginning of what happens after the wedding ceremony, often accompanied by applause and cheers from the guests. 

The reception order of events begins here, setting the stage for the next set of celebrations. This joyful moment signals the start of the reception festivities.

Bride and Groom’s First Kiss as Newlyweds

Following the formal pronouncement, the couple shares their first kiss as newlyweds. 

This brief yet symbolic gesture marks the beginning of their shared future. 

It’s a moment captured in photos and video, often celebrated by the guests. It’s one of the key moments in what happens after the wedding ceremony that sets the tone for the celebration ahead.

Post-Ceremony Photos and Portrait Sessions

Family and Bridal Party Photos

Once the ceremony is complete, the couple typically takes a few moments to capture photos with their family and bridal party. 

These photos are often coordinated ahead of time, ensuring the couple, family, and wedding party have time for these meaningful snapshots. 

It’s essential for the couple to have these memories documented, which is a crucial part of post-ceremony traditions.

Couple’s Romantic Photo Session

After family and bridal party photos, many couples take time for a private photo session. This allows them to capture romantic and intimate moments together. 

These photographs serve as a personal reminder of the love they share, and it’s often a highlight of what happens after the wedding ceremony.

The Wedding Reception Timeline

Greeting Guests and Cocktail Hour

As the couple arrives at the reception, they are introduced and begin to greet their guests. 

Following this, the cocktail hour begins, giving guests the chance to socialize and enjoy drinks and appetizers. This portion of the wedding reception timeline is designed to be relaxed, allowing guests to mingle before the formal events begin.

Welcome Speech and Toasts

Once guests have settled in, the couple often offers a short welcome speech. This is followed by toasts, typically from the best man, maid of honor, and sometimes parents. 

These wedding speeches and toasts are heartfelt moments that celebrate the couple’s love and journey together. It’s a great time for the couple to hear loving and often humorous stories from those closest to them.

Traditional Reception Events After the Ceremony

Cutting the Wedding Cake

The cake cutting ceremony is one of the most anticipated events of the reception. 

This tradition marks the couple’s first task together as a married couple. 

After the cake is cut, guests are served a slice. This moment is not only a time to enjoy cake but also one of the most photographed events in what happens after the wedding ceremony.

The First Dance as a Married Couple

The first dance at the wedding is an iconic moment, as it marks the couple’s first official dance together as a married couple. 

The song they choose often holds significant meaning to them. This emotional moment is a highlight of the reception and sets the tone for the evening’s festivities.

The Father-Daughter and Mother-Son Dances

Following the couple’s first dance, the father-daughter and mother-son dances take place. 

These dances are emotional moments, symbolizing the transition of the bride from her family to her new life. 

The father-daughter dance and mother-son dance are heartfelt and often bring tears to the eyes of the guests.

Food and Drink at the Reception

Buffet vs. Plated Dinner Options

After the formal dances, the meal is served. 

Couples often choose between a plated dinner or a buffet, depending on their style and the formality of the event. The choice is an important part of the wedding reception timeline, as it sets the atmosphere for the meal. 

Guests enjoy this time to relax and share in the celebration over food and drinks.

Wedding Cake and Dessert Tables

The wedding cake is traditionally cut and served after the formalities, and it’s often accompanied by other desserts. 

Some couples provide a full dessert table featuring cakes, cookies, and other treats, which adds an extra special touch to the reception. It’s part of what makes the wedding reception entertainment memorable for the guests.

Signature Cocktails for the Reception

Signature cocktails are another way to personalize the celebration. 

Couples often design drinks that reflect their tastes or the theme of the wedding. Signature cocktails are an exciting and fun element of the wedding reception entertainment, adding a unique twist to the traditional wedding bar.

Wedding Speeches and Toasts

Who Gives the Toasts at Weddings?

Typically, the wedding speeches and toasts are delivered by the best man, maid of honor, parents, or sometimes the couple themselves. 

These speeches are a great opportunity to share love and admiration for the couple, making them a memorable part of the evening.

Preparing Your Speech or Toast

If you’re tasked with giving a toast, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. 

Think about the couple’s journey and what makes their relationship special. Keeping your speech heartfelt and brief is key to making a positive impact at the reception.

Entertainment During the Reception

Live Bands vs. DJ for Music

The choice between a live band or a DJ is a major decision when planning wedding reception entertainment. 

A live band can bring energy and excitement to what happens after the wedding ceremony, while a DJ may offer a wider variety of music. 

Either choice plays a significant role in maintaining the mood and atmosphere at the reception.

Fun Activities for Guests (Games, Photo Booths)

In addition to dancing, many couples opt to add entertainment like photo booths or interactive games. 

These activities engage guests and give them something fun to do, creating more memorable moments throughout the reception.

Wedding Traditions and Customs After the Ceremony

Bouquet Toss and Garter Toss

The bouquet toss and garter toss are playful traditions that follow the first dance. 

The bouquet toss is typically aimed to catch with the belief that the one who catches it will be the next to marry. The garter toss adds an element of fun and tradition to the evening’s festivities.

Money Dance or Shoe Game

Another fun tradition is the money dance, where guests pay for a dance with the bride and groom. 

The shoe game is another popular wedding tradition, where the couple answers fun questions about each other. 

These games add humor and excitement to the evening, keeping the guests entertained.

Keeping the Energy High Throughout the Reception

Planning Exciting Events for the Guests

To keep the energy high, it’s important to plan exciting events throughout the night. Dancing, games, and interactive experiences will keep the guests engaged and excited.

Late-Night Snacks and Dancing

As the reception continues into the night, it’s customary to offer late-night snacks for the guests. This is the perfect way to refuel the guests before they continue dancing or enjoying other activities.

The Wedding Send-Off: Ending the Night with a Bang

Sparkler or Bubble Send-Offs

The wedding send-off is an unforgettable moment. 

Sparkler send-offs are a popular choice, where guests line up with sparklers as the couple makes their grand exit. 

Alternatively, bubbles create a whimsical, lighthearted atmosphere as the couple departs.

Planning the Perfect Grand Exit

A grand exit is a perfect way to end the wedding celebration. 

From sparklers to confetti or bubbles, the send-off should be a joyful and fitting conclusion to the day. 

It marks the end of the wedding ceremony and signals the start of the couple’s new life together.

Final Thoughts on What Happens After the Wedding Ceremony

Key Events to Include in Your Wedding Reception Timeline

From the first dance to the grand exit, there are certain moments that every reception should include. 

It’s important to work with a wedding planner to create a smooth timeline that allows you to enjoy every part of your reception.

Making Every Moment Memorable for You and Your Guests

The wedding reception is about creating memories with friends and family. 

By planning meaningful activities, ensuring great entertainment, and keeping the energy high, you can make your reception a day that everyone will remember.

Need Help Looking Good From Your Ceremony’s Start to Finish?

Although we don’t have a hand in planning your festivities, Sophia’s Bridal and Tux has you covered with planning your all-day glow. 

Making an appointment at the store can give you a tailored shopping experience, ensuring you look and feel your best throughout your whole celebration!