What is the format and order of a wedding breakfast?

Short answer

The wedding breakfast follows a set order: guests are seated, the couple and wedding party enter, the meal is served course by course, then speeches and toasts take place, often between courses or after dessert. Coffee and cake may follow.

The wedding breakfast usually begins with guests finding their seats at tables set with place cards and a menu. The couple, along with their parents, bridal party and close family, are often announced into the room. Once everyone is seated, the meal begins.

A typical order is: a starter, then the main course, then dessert. Speeches are often given between the starter and main course, or after the main course before dessert. This keeps the energy up and gives guests a natural break. The order can vary, so agree a schedule with your toastmaster or venue.

After the meal, there is often a toast to the couple, and then the cake is cut. Coffee and tea may be served with or after dessert. Some couples also serve a late-night snack later in the evening, but that is separate from the wedding breakfast.

You can adapt the format to suit your style. For example, you might have a two-course meal and save the dessert for later, or you might have speeches before the meal so guests can eat in peace. The key is to keep the flow smooth and let your guests know what is happening next.