A receiving line is a traditional way to greet guests at a wedding, usually just after the ceremony or at the entrance of the reception venue. It gives each guest a moment of face-to-face time with the bride and groom, where they can hug, kiss, and congratulate the couple. The receiving line is an opportunity for the couple and their parents to say hello to each guest, as well as to thank them for attending. The receiving line is usually made up of the brides parents first, followed by the bride and groom, and then the grooms parents. Sometimes it can also include the bridal party as well as grandparents. The biggest challenge of the receiving line is the amount of time it can take out of the drinks reception. Assuming you have 100 guests at your wedding and you allow 20-30 seconds per guest to say hello, it could take approximately 30-50 minutes. Alternatively, the couple may wish to ditch the receiving line altogether and instead visit each table during dinner to say hello. A receiving line isnt required, but the bride and groom do have to greet and thank each guest for coming to their wedding.