Today’s ceremonies are often personalized with wedding officiators speaking in friendly, less formal tones, directly to the bride and groom. There’s more interaction with families. Brides (and grooms) are often escorted down the aisle by both parents.
The wedding party may face the guests, or sit on specially placed benches rather than standing in a line with their backs to the guests. Most formal and semi-formal ceremonies are still held in religious institutions like churches and synagogues, but a surprising number (both religious and civil) are held in picturesque indoor or outdoor locations.
Be innovative about the receiving line, but don’t eliminate it entirely unless you have an alternative plan for the couple and parents to personally greet each guest. For instance, couples may whisk back up the aisle after the ceremony to greet them in an outer room. Or, receive guests outdoors in pleasant weather. Brides and grooms might decide to visit every guest at their reception. If there is no receiving line, parents should d the same.
Will travel
