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Reception & entertainment: Grand entrances and send-offs

A joyful entrance song and a sparkler, bubble or petal exit make great moments — check venue rules.

The key points

Entrance song for the wedding party
Sparklers need permission
Bubbles and petals as alternatives
A private last dance

Read more about grand entrances and send-offs

Rustic long tables set under trees for a garden reception

Budget & who pays27 ways to save money on your wedding that guests won’t notice

A bride in a white off-the-shoulder gown and a groom in a navy suit waving to seated guests as they enter their reception

Reception, food & musicWedding Reception Entrance Songs: How to Choose Music for Your Grand Entrance

Quick answers

What is the order of events at a wedding reception?

Cocktail hour, grand entrance, first dance (optional), dinner, toasts, parent dances, open dancing, cake cutting and a send-off.

Reception, food & musicAll questions

Do we need a grand entrance at our reception?

No. It is optional. Some couples prefer to walk in quietly with their guests, or to skip announcements and go straight to dinner.

Reception, food & musicAll questions

How long should a wedding entrance last?

Most are a few minutes at most. Shorter clips keep guests engaged, especially when the wedding party is large.

Reception, food & musicAll questions

How long is a wedding day?

For the couple, often 12–14 hours from hair and makeup to send-off. For guests, usually 5–6 hours from ceremony to last dance.

The wedding dayAll questions

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