You've been invited to a wedding
Wedding Reception
For wedding guests: reading the place setting, napkins, toasts and speeches, talking with tablemates and the courses — plus what to wear and a checklist.
Learn
0 of 5 lessons complete
- Table Setting · 5 minA Well-Set TableSo you can tell at a glance which plate, glass and cutlery are yours at a crowded round table.Start
- Table Setting · 6 minUsing Your NapkinTo know when to unfold your napkin and where to leave it if you step away.Start
- Conversation · 6 minToasts and Short SpeechesTo join the toasts and give speakers your full attention, fork down.Sign in to unlock
- Conversation · 6 minChoosing TopicsTo enjoy easy, celebratory conversation with tablemates you've just met.Sign in to unlock
- At the Table · 6 minCourses and Cutlery SignalsSo staff can read your progress through the courses, even when speeches interrupt the meal.Sign in to unlock
Read beforehand
- Reading a Place SettingA full-course setting is a map of the meal, laid out in the order the courses arrive. Here’s what each piece is and where to find it.
- Where to Put Your Bag and PhoneA small bag goes behind your back or at your feet; large bags and coats go to the cloakroom. Put your phone away and keep the table clear.
- Wine and ToastsLeave your glass on the table while wine is poured. For a toast, raise it to eye level and meet people’s eyes.
- Leaving the TableIf you need to step away, wait for a lull in the conversation, excuse yourself briefly and leave your napkin on your chair.
- Using Cutlery From the Outside InCutlery is laid out in course order, from the outside in. Take the outermost pair with each course and you’ll never be unsure, however many courses there are.
Check what to wear
Dress codeSemi-formal
- Follow the invitation's dress code. In Japan, “heifuku” still means smart semiformal wear, not everyday clothes.
- Avoid white and colors that could pass for it — white is traditionally the bride's color.
- Dress to celebrate without outshining the couple.
Outfit check
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