JESSICA'S TAKE:

ADVICE SISTER JESSICA’S TAKE:

The short answer to your question is ...no! Though it's traditional to have a receiving line at weddings, it is by no means required - .especially if the wedding is small. Even if the wedding is sizeable, such as yours will be, you can get around the receiving line question by simply making sure you and your groom visit each table briefly as your guests are seated at the start of the reception, or even if there is no formal seating, mingling with your guests instead of isolating yourselves throughout the wedding at a head table as some brides and grooms seem to do. Greeting those guests who have come to see you married and wish you well is most definitely a responsibility of EVERY bride and groom - but I see no reason at all it has to be done by way of a formal receiving line.

ALISON'S TAKE:

ADVICE SISTER ALISON’S TAKE:

It's your wedding (so do what you want), but with a formal wedding and 250 guests it will be nearly impossible for you to personally meet them all during your reception or say anything meaningful to them over the din of the band and the requests of the photographer and so forth. Receiving lines are traditional but they don't have to be dull! You are the one who livens it up, by being charming and radiant, and saying something special and personal to each guest! Receiving lines allow you to do this in an organized way. What's an hour (or less) of your time to graciously acknowledge those who took more than an hour of their time to be with you on your special day?

My suggestion is to have the formal receiving line, but keep the number of people on it short (just the immediate family and your honor attendants). You are the center attraction, and all you have to do is say: "hi and thanks for coming" and maybe a few personal comments to each person, then pass them to the next person on the receiving line. People know not to linger (most know to move quickly and will take the hint when they see everyone waiting behind them). You'll make your Mom happy. It's also a great photo op: be sure that the photographer is there to catch you greeting each guest and you'll be sure to get those special photos with those who are most special to you.

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