Our wedding coordinator suggested an alternative to receiving lines that we really like -- as we are exiting the chapel, we will "dismiss" each row. That is, as they exit the pews we will have a chance then to greet them and thank them for coming to the wedding. This way while they are waiting to be greeted by us, they may sit comfortably in the pews, enjoy the music, and chat amongst themselves. Our wedding coordinator says this often works well, and we would be surprised and how quickly it would go (we also only will have probably about 75 guests)
So I wanted to include a note in our program about this so people know what to expect, but I'm really at a loss of how to word it. I don't like the word "dismiss", but I don't know how else to convey to people that we'd like them to wait so we can have a chance to greet them as a new couple and thank them for being there.
The bride and groom will greet guests as they exit their seats
Just isn't very clear. I want it to stay succinct as well, but not too bossy. A knottie in another thread suggested:
Please remain seated as the new Mr. & Mrs. Newlywed would like to greet you immediately following the ceremony
This seems a little better to me, but I'm still not sure guests will "get it."
Any suggestions?