Practicalities
When it's time to say goodbye, key members of the wedding party have some final tasks to ensure that things run to plan for the bride and groom's departure.
The best man should check that their transport has arrived, and that everything they need - whether just overnight bags for the wedding night or their honeymoon luggage - is in the car.
Traditionally, the best man and ushers decorate the vehicle, but this can be impractical if, for example, it is a taxi and not personally owned.
The chief bridesmaid or mother of the bride should attend to the bride, either assisting her into a going away outfit or checking her hair and retouching her make up etc.
Some couples have a firework display on departure; a less grand but effective idea is to provide the guests with sparklers.
The master of ceremonies, band or DJ should announce that the bride and groom are about to leave - it is sensible to do this a few minutes in advance to allow time for guests to assemble.
Wedding reception etiquette dictates that the bride then throws her bouquet just before leaving.
