Naturally, the seat of honor will be yours at the main table during the reception. You will want to make the very best impression, as will the entire wedding party. Here are some helpful hints for the time when all eyes are upon you!

(1) Keep your voice at a moderate level, and refrain from conversation during any “little” ceremonies – when the best man is giving the newlyweds a toast, or when the clergyperson is saying a prayer before the meal. Etc.

(2) Concentrate when you are eating – be careful so that you don’t accidentally spill some food or beverage on that beautiful dress. If you’re too nervous to eat, don’t force yourself. But do eat something if you plan to indulge in a few ceremonial toasts.

(3) Keep that wedding glow about yourself – Remember you’re the focus of attention for the whole crowd, the cameras, etc. Groomsmen should leave their jackets on. Bridesmaids should wait to kick off their shoes!

(4) Appoint a special person to wait on the head table to keep it uncluttered. A low centerpiece should be used so that it won’t block anyone’s view.

(5) If guests jointly propose a toast, try to give everyone the pleasure of acknowledging their toast by giving each other a short kiss.

(6) Rise to greet guests who come to offer their best wishes, and let them know how glad you are they could come. The wedding party should be seated as follows at the head table: the wedding party should be facing the guests so that everyone can see you. Your groom will sit to the left, your honor attendant will sit next to the groom, and the best man will go next to you. The bridesmaids and groomsmen will be seated alternately around the rest of the table. You may also wish to include the clergyperson, your parents, and groom’s parents, grandparents, and godparents.