What To Say When Greeting Your Wedding Guests
Does the idea of coming up with clever banter throughout your wedding day, as you speak to
guest after guest after guest, make you nervous? Even the most outgoing personality can be at a
loss for words when you take into consideration the emotions running high and a large number of
people in the crowd.
If it's any comfort, keep in mind the fact that your guests aren't expecting to have extensive,
one-on-one conversations with you on your wedding day. Instead, most guests are eager to
congratulate you on your new marriage, tell you how great you look, and offer good wishes.
During your receiving line - if you choose to have one - the line will likely move quickly, giving
you time to briefly greet each guest as they congratulate you. The reception, however, will give
you plenty of opportunities to mingle with your guests. Don't hide from them or spend every
moment with your new spouse. Remember this is your event, you are the hostess, and the guests
are here to honor you. In return, they deserve to have your attention for at least part of the
evening.
Conversations with guests on your wedding day will give you the chance to finally meet your
new spouse's friends and relatives for the first time. Your new spouse and in-laws will be
delighted to introduce you to out-of-town family and friends. Take this opportunity to introduce
them to your family and friends, as well.
You'll probably hear comments such as:
* "You look beautiful / fabulous / lovely."
* "I'm Jenn. I don't think we've met before."
* "Everything went so smoothly."
* "Congratulations!"
* "What a beautiful ceremony."
* "I'm Stephanie's second cousin once removed."
Make an effort to speak to every guest, even if it means moving from table to table during the
reception. Be ready with simple statements including:
* "Thank you so much for coming."
* "We're so glad you made it."
* "It means so much to us for you to be here."
* "Have you met my new husband, Jeffrey?"
* "So nice to see you."
* "You know my parents, Mike and Carol, don't you? Mom, Dad, this is Libby."
* "We're so honored that you're here and hope you have a fabulous time."
Avoid questions that might lead to long conversations with the chronic complainers in your life.
You know who I'm talking about. Don't ask how her flight was or if she likes the hotel unless
you're ready to hear about the horrible turbulence or how she's stayed at much better hotels.
Keep in mind that your guests will remember your wedding day based on how welcome you
made them feel. A few sincere words can make all the difference. Read more articles on our
wedding blog
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