Wedding Reception Timeline & Speeches Guide | Oshkosh, Green Bay & Appleton Weddings

Wedding Reception Speeches and Timeline: What to Expect for Your Big Day in Oshkosh, Green Bay, and Beyond

At Sound Sensations Entertainment, we often hear one key question during our final planning meetings with couples in Oshkosh, Green Bay, Appleton, and the Fox Cities: “When and who speaks during the reception?” As a trusted wedding entertainment company based in Oshkosh, we’ve seen it all and are here to share insights into how wedding celebrations unfold in the Upper Midwest. From the welcome to the speeches, we’ll break down what to expect to ensure your reception flows smoothly and memorably in your favorite local venues like Poplar Creek Barn, the Gibson Social Club or any Fox Valley area venue. Need a venue or vendor recommendation, we've got some great recommended vendors.

When Should the Welcome Take Place at Your Wedding Reception?

The welcome typically kicks off the dinner portion of your celebration. Once your guests are seated and your DJ/MC has introduced the wedding party, the welcome takes place—most often given by the newlyweds, but sometimes by a designated VIP such as a parent or close family member.

Key Points to Remember for a Memorable Welcome:

Duration: The welcome is brief, usually lasting 2-3 minutes.

Purpose: It sets the tone for the evening, marking the official start of the fun.

Optional: While not required, over 90% of the weddings we’ve been part of in Oshkosh and Appleton include a welcome.

Your DJ/MC will help guide you in deciding who should give the welcome and when to schedule it for maximum impact.

Tip for Local Weddings: In venues like Poplar Creek Barn or the Gibson Social Club, you’ll want to choose a space that’s easy to access for the welcome speech to ensure it’s heard by everyone, especially in larger, open areas.

The Blessing or Prayer: A Moment of Reflection

Following the welcome, a blessing or prayer may take place. While this tradition is common, it’s entirely up to you and your beliefs. If you decide to include a blessing or prayer, here are some tips:

Tips for a Seamless Blessing:

Plan Ahead: Inform the person giving the blessing well in advance so they can prepare.

Keep It Simple: A short, heartfelt moment is often best.

Optional: For couples who aren’t religious, skipping the blessing is perfectly fine.

Whether it’s spiritual or secular, guests will appreciate this thoughtful pause during your celebration, and it can be tailored to fit the vibe of your local wedding venue.

Wedding Speeches: Celebrating Your Love Through Words

Wedding speeches are a beloved part of the dinner portion of a wedding, providing an opportunity for VIPs like the best man, maid or matron of honor, and parents to share heartfelt messages. When and how these speeches happen depends largely on your dinner style and guest list size.

Timing Your Speeches at Your Oshkosh or Green Bay Wedding:

For Plated or Family-Style Dinners: Wait until after the last entrees are served to avoid distracting servers and guests.

If you have more than three speeches, consider staggering them: some between courses (e.g., salads and entrees) and others after the main course.

For Buffet-Style Dinners: Schedule speeches after the last table has gone through the buffet. This ensures the head table can eat and allows for full attention from your guests.

Suggested Order of Speakers:

• Best Man
• Maid or Matron of Honor
• Parents
• Additional VIPs

Of course, this is your day—you can choose any order or lineup that reflects your preferences. Your DJ/MC can help you structure the timeline to ensure everything flows smoothly.

Tip for Local Wedding Venues: If you’re hosting your celebration at Gibson Social Club or another local venue in the Fox Valley, ensure that the speakers have access to a microphone so their words can be heard throughout the space.

How We Help You Plan the Perfect Flow in Oshkosh, Green Bay, and Beyond

At Sound Sensations Entertainment, we believe in creating personalized and unforgettable celebrations. Our experienced DJs/MCs work closely with couples in Oshkosh, Green Bay, and the Fox Cities to craft timelines that prioritize guest engagement and seamless transitions. Whether it’s helping you decide when speeches should happen or coordinating with other vendors, we’re here to make your wedding day stress-free and enjoyable.

Our team has worked at some of the area’s best local venues, including Poplar Creek Barn, The 513, The Gibson Social Club in Oshkosh, where we’re proud to be a preferred vendor.

Why Choose Sound Sensations Entertainment for Your Wedding in Oshkosh and the Fox Cities?

Based in Oshkosh, WI, we proudly serve couples throughout Northeast Wisconsin, including Green Bay, Appleton, Madison, Milwaukee, and surrounding areas. Our team of four professional DJs/MCs—each with 15-20+ years of experience and over 1,750 weddings under their belts—knows how to create the perfect atmosphere for your celebration.

Services We Offer:

• DJ and MC Services: From ceremony music to a packed dance floor.
• Photo Booths: Add fun and interactive entertainment for your guests.
• Uplighting and More: Transform your venue into a stunning visual experience.

Let’s Make Your Wedding in Oshkosh, Green Bay, or Appleton Unforgettable

At Sound Sensations Entertainment, our mission is simple: to bring your vision to life with professionalism, creativity, and exceptional service. Ready to make your wedding day one for the books? Contact us today to check your date and start planning the celebration of your dreams in the Fox Valley or beyond!

Don’t wait—secure your date with Sound Sensations Entertainment and let’s create a wedding day that your guests will rave about for years to come. Whether it’s crafting the perfect timeline, curating a personalized playlist, or lighting up the dance floor, we’re here to make it happen! Book a consultation today, and let’s begin planning your unforgettable wedding celebration.

FAQs: Wedding Timeline in Oshkosh and Green Bay

Q: How do I structure my wedding reception speeches?

A: The best way to structure your speeches is after the main course in Oshkosh, Green Bay, or Appleton. Have your best man and maid of honor speak first, followed by parents and any additional VIPs.

Q: When should the welcome happen at my reception?

A: The welcome is typically given right before dinner, after your MC introduces the wedding party, and can be provided by the couple or a VIP.

Q: Can I skip the prayer or blessing at my wedding in Oshkosh?

A: Yes, a blessing is optional, and many couples in Oshkosh and Green Bay skip it if it doesn’t fit their personal style. It’s up to you to decide.

Q: Does Sound Sensations Entertainment offer Entertainment Discounts at any Venues?

A: Yes, Sound Sensations Entertainment has exclusive discounted pricing for events at either the Gibson Social Club, Poplar Creek Barn & The 513