Greeting your wedding guests might sound obvious — after all, these are your people. But in the whirlwind of vows, portraits, décor reveals, speeches, and that irresistible dance floor, finding meaningful moments with everyone can feel surprisingly complicated. Still, every guest who shows up for your day deserves a moment of connection, and with a little planning, you can make it happen beautifully and gracefully.

There’s no single “right” way to greet your wedding guests. Much depends on your personalities, your timeline, and even your venue layout. What is essential, though, is deciding on your greeting style in advance so it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.

The Classic Greeting: The Receiving Line

For generations, the receiving line — where the newly married couple greets each guest right after the ceremony — was standard wedding etiquette. While this tradition isn’t as common today due to tight timelines and photography schedules, it still works for couples who want to ensure they speak to everyone. If you choose a receiving line, keep it moving. Aim for 10–15 minutes, use ushers to manage the flow, and offer quick hugs and warm words before heading off to photos.

The Mingling Approach

For modern couples, mingling is one of the most popular approaches. During cocktail hour or shortly after the ceremony, simply float between clusters of guests. It’s casual, warm, and perfect for smaller weddings or relaxed atmospheres. The key here is presence — be in the moment, offer a quick catch-up, share a laugh, then move on naturally. It feels effortless and genuine. This works very well for couples who have already taken pre-ceremony photos and don’t have to rush to get images.

Table-by-Table Greetings During Dinner

This strategy remains a favourite, especially for larger receptions. Moving around the room table by table ensures every guest gets a greeting without disrupting the flow of the evening.

The best time? In between course or dinner service but before speeches. Guests are settled, conversation is flowing, and you can greet an entire table in one moment. It’s efficient, organised, and always appreciated.

A Meet-and-Greet the Day Before

Destination weddings or multi-day celebrations often include a welcome party, and this trend is one many Jamaican couples are now embracing. A casual meet-and-greet the evening before the wedding gives you time to connect with out-of-town guests, family members, and friends you haven’t seen in a while. It also reduces the pressure to find every guest on the wedding day itself, allowing you to enjoy the reception more fully.

Greeting During Cocktail Hour

If your portraits finish early enough, cocktail hour is the perfect time to circulate. Guests are relaxed, drinks are flowing, and the atmosphere is light. This makes greetings feel natural and unforced — and you’ll cover more ground than you think.

A Thank-You From the Heart

A timeless gesture that never loses its place: The thank-you speech. Whether formal or casual, taking a moment to acknowledge your loved ones is powerful. A simple, heartfelt message goes a long way:“Family and friends, thank you for being here. Your presence means everything to us.” This moment alone can replace the need to greet every guest individually.

Personal Touches That Speak For You

Even when time is limited, thoughtful gestures make guests feel seen and appreciated. Consider name cards with short notes or meaningful quotes, personalised favors, a photo or story wall, post-wedding thank-you cards (still very meaningful!) These touches add warmth and intention to your celebration.

A Quick Note on Time

You won’t get 10 minutes with every guest — and that’s perfectly fine. The goal isn’t long conversations; it’s creating a welcoming energy that flows through the entire day. Remember to prioritise quality over quantity and you can always circle back later to anyone you missed. Take moments where they naturally appear.

A great wedding isn’t about ticking every box. It’s about being present and sharing your joy with the people who came to celebrate it. With thoughtful planning and a warm spirit, you’ll create moments of connection that your guests will remember long after the last song plays.

Shikima Hinds

Managing Director, Shikima Hinds Events Concierge

tel. 876-925-4285 or 876-361-0910

email: shikima@shikimahinds.com

www.shikimahinds.com

Table-by-table greetings during dinner remains a favourite, especially for larger receptions. 

A receiving line may sound like a formal and old-fashioned wedding relic, but it’s actually an efficient way for the bride and groom, and oftentimes their parents, to greet and thank every guest in attendance. 

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