The photographer may wish to take photographs privately of the Bride and Groom cutting the wedding cake whilst guests enjoy welcome drinks.

A normal welcoming party, or receiving line, is shown below, however, the numbers may be reduced for ease.

The Brides Mother,
The Bridegrooms Father, The Bridegrooms Mother, The Brides Father
The Bride & Bridegroom, The Best Man and
The Bridesmaids.

Traditionally the cake is cut towards the end of the meal, after the coffee is served. Nowadays, an option is to cut the cake first to enable distribution.

The saying of Grace is optional and is often said by the Bridegrooms Father or a clergyman, if invited.

Speeches and toasts would normally take place at the end of the meal with the cutting and distribution of the wedding cake. The usual order of proceedings is:

• The Bride and Bridegroom cut the cake.
• Toast to "The Bride & Groom". This is normally proposed by the Brides Father,
  close relative or friend of the family.
• Toast to "The Bridesmaids". This is always proposed by The Bridegroom
  following his response to the first toast.

The Best Man would then respond to the Bridegrooms speech on behalf of the Bridesmaids. He would also read the cards and any telegrams to the guests.