Probably the part of the wedding that couples dislike the most is the receiving line.  Once the wedding is over, getting to the reception seems to be foremost on everyone’s mind.  If the thought of having to make small talk with so  many people is making you so nervous that you’re considering not having a receiving line, consider this:

1.)  Having a receiving line is considered proper etiquette and absolutely essential for weddings of 50 or more guests.

2.)  Having a receiving line guarantees some face-to-face time with each and every guest.  Remember some of them may have come a long way to celebrate with you.

3.)  Having a receiving line allows each guest to congratulate you.  This makes them feel a part of the whole celebration.

4.)  You don’t need to talk at length with everyone; you can do that at the reception if you’d like.  Keep it short and sweet; thank them for coming.

It’s best to have the receiving line at the church immediately following the ceremony.  Some people may not be able to attend the reception, and this will give them the opportunity to wish you the best.  If you’re having a fancier reception, your budget may have required you to invite less people to the reception than to the wedding, and the receiving line would be your only opportunity to thank those people for attending.

You can also have your receiving line at the reception hall.  If this is your first choice, just remember to have the receiving line before everyone has access to the food.

The proper order for a receiving line is as follows:
~ Bride’s mother
~ Bride’s father
~ Groom’s mother
~ Grooms’ father
~ Bride
~ Groom
*Optional members of a receiving line are:  maid of honor, bridesmaids, other attendants, and grandparents.  Remember, the shorter the receiving line, the less time it will take up. 

Receiving lines have gotten an undeserved reputation over the years.  The way I figure it, any tradition that lends itself to having dozens of people tell you how beautiful you look, is NOT a bad thing!