Plan Your Day

Reception Timeline

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming. With the help of our experienced wedding professionals the day can be organized and stress free.

Here is an example of what a reception at the Waterloo Convention Center at Sullivan Brothers Plaza could look like. The details below are only suggestions. If you have any concerns about timing, we would be more than happy to answer your questions and offer our experienced recommendations!

Ceremony On Site

__________ Wedding party arrival at Convention Center

__________ Guests begin to arrive (30-45 minutes prior to ceremony start)

__________ Ceremony start time

__________ Ceremony end time

Reception

__________ Cocktail hour start time (allow 45-60 minutes)

__________ Doors open to the room (15-20 minutes prior to introductions)

__________ Arrival of wedding party (30 minutes prior to introductions)

__________ Introduction of wedding party (10 minutes)

__________ Bride and groom cut cake/take picture (5 minutes)

__________ Welcome/blessing prior to dinner (5 minutes)

__________ Dinner (45 minutes)

__________ Champagne Toast

__________ Wedding cake to guests (station or served)

__________ Dance begins

__________ Late night snack

__________ Last Call (30 minutes prior to reception end time)

__________ Reception end time

 Wedding Planning Checklist

12-10 Months Before

  • Select Wedding date and time

  • Secure ceremony and reception venues

  • Book photographer, videographer, and entertainment

  • Start planning the guest list

9-6 Months Before

  • Take engagement photos

  • Send save the dates

  • Book florist

  • Purchase a wedding dress

  • Register for gifts

  • Reserve hotel blocks

5-3 Months Before

  • Finalize menu

  • Order wedding cake

  • Rent the men’s formalwear

  • Arrange wedding day transportation

  • Second deposit payment

2 Months Before

  • Mail invitations

  • Reception menu taste testing

1 Month Before

  • Apply for marriage license

  • Confirm final details with your Event Manager

2 Weeks Before

  • Review final RSVP list

  • Final guarantee and payment due