Is it okay not to have a receiving line? The longs lines seem so tedious - shaking hands with people you don't know when all you really want is to say congratulations to the bride and groom and maybe their parents.
It also takes so much time and if we have it at the church it will eat into the time for taking photographs and if we have it at the reception it will delay the start of the cocktails serving. Would it be acceptable to make sure the bride and groom speak to individually to everyone and thank them for coming as the evening progresses? There may be some who get missed, but hopefully the guest would have the personal contact when they say goodbye.
It is optional, but it is an element that allows the guests to meet all of the players. Plus, they have made the effort to attend, it would be nice to allow them the time to personally speak to the couple.
Most of the pictures can be taken well before the wedding. Many are now taking them a week or two before. This frees up some time. And, it is thoughtful for the guests. Guests don't really appreciate waiting for the couple to take pictures.
At the reception, cocktails could be served during the receiving line.
No receiving line
