Wedding Planning Certification Practice Test

When are speeches traditionally made during the reception?

1. Before dinner

2. During the cocktail hour

3. After dinner

4. While guests are arriving

The correct answer is: After dinner

Speeches are traditionally made after dinner during the reception for several reasons. This timing allows guests to enjoy their meal without interruptions, creating a relaxed atmosphere that encourages attentiveness when it's time for the speakers. Typically, the couple's parents, the best man, and the maid of honor deliver speeches in this moment, providing meaningful reflections, toasts, and stories about the couple. Furthermore, making speeches after dinner often coincides with the transition to more celebratory parts of the reception, such as dancing, making it feel like a natural progression. This setting allows guests to settle in comfortably at their tables, savor their food, and prepare for the speeches both with anticipation and appreciation, enhancing their overall experience at the wedding. In contrast, making speeches before dinner or during the cocktail hour can disrupt the flow of the event, potentially causing guests to rush through their meals or lose focus on the speeches themselves. Similarly, trying to engage guests in speeches while they are still arriving can lead to distractions, reducing the impact and enjoyment of the words being shared.