Wedding Reception Setup Checklist

You've spent months planning every detail. Now it's time to bring it all together.

Use this checklist to make sure your reception is ready before guests begin to arrive.

Every wedding is unique, so customize the list to fit your celebration, venue, and reception plans.

Before Guests Arrive

☐ Place wedding favors at each place setting or arrange them on the favor table.
☐ Arrange the guest book and pens.
☐ Set out welcome table décor and signage.
☐ Place menus, place cards, and table numbers.
☐ Set cocktail napkins at the bar.
☐ Place cake or dessert napkins near the dessert table.
☐ Set coasters where needed.
☐ Arrange frosted cups at the bar or drink station.
☐ Place matchbooks or matchboxes at each place setting, cigar bar, candle station, or welcome table.
☐ Light candles just before guests arrive, if permitted by your venue.

Bar & Beverage Station

☐ Cocktail napkins stocked.
☐ Cups ready.
☐ Beverage signage displayed.
☐ Coasters available if needed.
☐ Drink stirrers, straws, or garnishes stocked.

Dessert Table

☐ Dessert napkins ready.
☐ Cake-cutting utensils available.
☐ Dessert signage displayed.
☐ Cake topper in place.

Guest Comfort

☐ Guest towels stocked in restrooms.
☐ Welcome bags delivered, if applicable.
☐ Seating chart displayed.
☐ Directional signs placed.

Special Reception Areas

☐ Cigar bar stocked with matchbooks or matchboxes.
☐ Sparkler send-off station prepared, if permitted by your venue.
☐ Memory table complete.
☐ Gift table ready.
☐ Card box secured.

Emergency Kit

Even the best-planned weddings can have little surprises. Keeping a small emergency kit nearby can make the day a little easier.

☐ Extra napkins
☐ Extra favors
☐ Extra cups or coasters
☐ Scissors
☐ Clear tape
☐ Safety pins
☐ Bobby pins
☐ Stain remover pen
☐ Lint roller
☐ Pain reliever
☐ Sewing kit
☐ Phone charger
☐ Lighter, if permitted by your venue

Final Walkthrough

☐ Walk through the reception space one final time.
☐ Make sure tables are complete.
☐ Check that favors are displayed as planned.
☐ Confirm signage is visible.
☐ Take a deep breath.
☐ Go enjoy your celebration. You've earned it!

Planning Your Wedding Favors?

Browse Tea and Becky's personalized wedding favors and coordinating products to find designs for your celebration. Each product page includes available personalization options, quantities, colors, and estimated delivery information.