Recieving Line

I would just go around to the tables once people have their food! Much easier and less rushed.

I agree with Gen!

Gen has a good suggestion. I think if you wait there while they're getting food it makes it a bit clogged. We went around to the tables and greeted people and thanked them for coming

We had a receiving line right after the ceremony then we walked around to each table after we finished eating to talk to our guests even more. We were served first so we were finished first. I would recommend just walking around to each table. I can say my hair and makeup didn't get messed up from doing a receiving line so I'm not sure why you think yours would.

No. I don’t think that interrupting guests as they’re in line getting their food is a good option. They’ll have a plate in their hand and can’t really hug or comfortably communicate. Going around to their tables after you and FH eat is a better idea.

View Quoted Comment I was just worried about hugging people, potentially someone tugging on my veil, and it'll be an outdoor ceremony, so I was also worried about getting kind of sweaty and gross before pictures as we talk to everyone. But I like the tables idea a lot!

View Quoted Comment Oh, we definitely would do it before they grab any food! I agree that it would be hard if they had a plate full of food in their hands.

View Quoted Comment I like this. Thanks for the feedback!

I would make sure you and your H are served dinner first to ensure you finish before your guests. Then, walk around and visit with each table during dinner. This way you get to speak with everything without having to take up time in a receiving line.

I don’t think a receiving line works realistically any time other than immediately after the ceremony. People are focused on getting their food when they head up to the buffet and they may be distracted, but really I think the biggest issue here is the risk of it holding up the whole food line and slowing down dinner. So, I think the only way to do the line approach is right after the ceremony. Still, I wouldn’t be too concerned over getting mussed up during the line— I’ve never witnessed a receiving line impacting a bride’s look , and most people are relatively cautious around obviously done up hair and make up. I have heard of brides having their HMUA stick around for a bit for touch ups, so that’s an option too, though likely at a cost. If you don’t feel comfortable with a post ceremony receiving line though, I really think the best alternative option would be table visits

Usually I see couples go around to each table while everyone is seated. Obviously if you have a huge wedding this wouldn't work, but if your wedding is on the smaller side I think it is nice for the couple to make a visit to each table if there is enough down time between courses to do so.