Reception & entertainment: First dances and parent dances

A first dance can open the party or follow dinner; parent dances can be combined to save time.

The key points

Quick answers

When should the first dance happen?

Either straight after the entrance or after dinner to open the dance floor.

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How long should a first dance be?

Two to three minutes is plenty. Ask your DJ to fade or edit a longer song.

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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.

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Is it rude to leave a wedding early?

Not if you stay through the main moments — dinner, toasts and the first dance — and say goodbye to the couple or hosts.

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