Tip 3: Family Formals

To make family formals run smoothly, give your photographer a list of all the immediate family members. I have a section of my timeline questionnaire that allows couples to fill in all of their immediate family so we can check them off as we go. Here are some other tips to make the family formals run smoothly. 

Skip the receiving line

This tradition has almost gone by the wayside, but there are still times when couples or their parents think this is a good idea. It's up to you, but a receiving line is the definition of a black hole and can significantly delay your family formals.

Put it in your program

Put in your program, towards the end, that you need all immediate family to stick around for family formals. They should know this, but there are always a few that are hurrying off to the cocktail hour or stripping out of their tie and jacket and have to put it all back on for family formals. 

Put someone in charge

Having someone in charge to call out family names is a great way to help move things along, especially if your family is large. The wedding photographer doesn't know everyone at the wedding by name, so having a cousin, aunt or family friend who knows the players can really help things run smoothly. 

Tell them at the wedding rehearsal

Often, most, if not all, your immediate family will attend the rehearsal dinner. So, why not remind them when family formals are happening on the wedding day.

Right after the ceremony can be a hectic time. It's understandable. Everyone wants to hug you, say congratulations and tell you they love you. So using these tips can help alleviate a black hole that happens around family formals.