What does the host couple do?

[Jaci]

I really have no idea what a host couple does. I saw Marisa mention she is having her host take polaroids for her guestbook, which I think is a fantastic idea, but I already have a guestbook attendant who should be able to do that.

So what should I have my host couple do at the reception? Do they have a job at the ceremony? Anyone have any good links?

[Celeste]

By host couple, do you mean the owners of the location? Or the people paying for the reception, or what?

[Jaci]

No, I have some stuff that says we should appoint a host or host couple. So it's someone we know.

Wow, it's pretty bad when I have you stumped Celeste :D

[nikkiana]

Hmmm.... I've never heard of that either, Jaci. Where did you read this?

[Jaci]

I have a checklist from my local paper, but I know I've seen it elsewhere too.

[Celeste]

Huh. That's a new one on me! I'll be curious to hear what others say.

I did some google research and found a reference to a "reception host" in a "My Wedding Planner", but in context it sounds like they're talking about an MC or maitre'd. I found it in a guide to weddings put out by a particular church and in their context it sounds like the "host couple" are the people who greet the guests at the church, just to be hospitable when the bride and groom are not available to do so themselves. Normally the parents, but not necessarily. As in item #5 in this guide http://www.bridalguide.com/default.cfm?fuseaction=request&item_id=514&page_num=3 - someone to act as host when the real hosts are not available.

[Noelle]

Jaci - We had my aunt & Uncle and Jeff's Aunt & Uncle be our reception host couple. They got there and were able to make sure people signed the guest book, knew wehre to leave gifts, etc. Also, they were there to direct people to where they needed to go (find a seat anywhere and sit). Otherwise there job wasn't too hard! They also were in charge of calling the caterer as soon as the wedding was over so they could light our tea light candles!

[Jaci]

Thanks ladies, Sno (you wanted a nickname right? That's what you get from me :P) your's was probably the best description, so I'm going to tell that to my aunt. I knew it had some sort of coordination with the reception stuff, but I wasn't sure.

Hah, I asked her yesterday if she would and she was like "Oh man, that's one of those jobs you give to people you hate" :o

She was just being silly.

[Aramelle]

This must be one of those regional things...? Being from MN myself, I've never been to a wedding that didn't have a host and hostess. Typically, they head out for the reception venue immediately following the ceremony, so they are there before any other guests begin to arrive. If you have any decorations that need to go from the ceremony site to the reception site, have them grab them and make sure they know where they should be displayed. I would also suggest having them grab the guest book so that it will be at the reception site and ready for your guests to sign as they arrive. Usually, aside from doing the things Noelle mentioned, they just mingle with the guests.

[Jaci]

It must be Aramelle, thanks for the input, now I've got a good list for my aunt!

Good thing too, because I was honestly starting to wonder who was going to take care of all of that :P

[KathyandJer]

I didn't realize it had an official name :lol: I have heard of this - also, if you trust this person to remain calm and to make decisions for you (unless absolutely necessary), I would suggest making them your wedding-day contact as well! If anyone needs to tell you something, they have to go through that person. That way, you only hear about the things you absolutely MUST hear about :D

[saraw04]

I never heard of this until I moved to IL. I never heard of it in WI. Everyone is this area has hosts at their receptions. It's usually two couples (one from the bride's side and one from the groom's) and they get to the reception early and do anything that needs to be done (light candles, open doors, set up things, etc.). Then they generally stand at the entrance and welcome all of the guests.

Sara :)

[Jaci]

Thanks Sara, I like the idea of having two, one from each side...we'll just have to figure out one for his side now.

[MsJessica07]

Raif really liked the idea of a host couple, and even suggested two of his aunts (his mom has 7 sisters!!!) to do it! :)

[Jaci]

I think it will work nicely also, it should keep things organized hopefully.