Guest Author - Sandra Sable
Whether you are following traditions or creating your own, there are a few traditions that are expected at weddings. Its up to you to perform the traditions in your style.
GRAND ENTRANCE
This is a time when anticipation is high – this is also a great time to introduce your wedding party. It is not like you stand up in church and introduce everyone. Entrance songs are not necessary but if you do choose one, make sure it is short so everyone can move on to the festivities.
WHEN: The Grand Entrance kicks the party off. Have your band leader or DJ invite guests to the dinner area to give you a warm welcome.
TOASTS
Toasts are a great way to honor you and your new life. The best man, maid of honor and often father of the bride take part in this tradition. You can also buck tradition and say a few words,yourself, I most certainly did a my wedding. After everyone has spoken it would also be a great gesture for you both to get up and say a few words of thanks together.
WHEN: The Toasts traditionally take place between dinner and the dessert course,
If you have a large group of people to speak or you would like to lead into the meal, you can have the best man initiate a few words before dinner or appie's....depending on what you are serving.
CAKE CUTTING
Symbolizing the first task you and your new husband will perform, the cake cutting is one of the favorite moments for your relatives. For foodies it is the “cake flavor time”...the most asked question -- what flavor is the cake? Next in mind is whether you re each going to “mush” the cake into faces. Groom's please remember the bride's makeup. I choose not to “mush”.
WHEN: After dinner and toasts. Cake cutting should flow right into opening the dance floor. The guests will already be out of their seats and ready to party.
BOUQUET & GARTER TOSS
You and your new husband are starting on the path of your new life together, pass the good fortune on to single friends and family embers. A great song for the ladies is Beyonce's “All the Single Ladies”. It creates a great vibe and can lead in with a lot of fun and excitement. For the garter toss a great striptease song works great,-- you can be as provocative or bashful as you want....either leads to a great time.
WHEN: After a couple of glasses of wine or champagne, everyone will anticipate this great moment. Who will the lucky girl or guy be.....For this reason, the bouquet & garter toss should be held later in the evening – after the dance has been I swing for about 30 to 40 minutes.
