Editing Party (section)

===Reception===
[[File:Rochester Contemporary Art Center Opening Reception.jpg|thumb|Reception at an art exhibition opening]]
Formal receptions are parties that are designed to receive a large number of guests, often at prestigious venues such as [[Buckingham Palace]], the [[White House]], or [[Government Houses of the British Empire and Commonwealth]]. The hosts and any guests of honor form a [[Wedding reception#Receiving line|receiving line]] in [[order of precedence]] near the entrance. Each guest is announced to the host who greets each one in turn as he or she arrives. Each guest properly speaks little more than his name (if necessary) and a conventional greeting or congratulation to each person in the receiving line. In this way, the line of guests progresses steadily without unnecessary delay. After formally receiving each guest in this fashion, the hosts may mingle with the guests.

Somewhat less formal receptions are common in academic settings, sometimes to honor a [[guest speaker|guest lecturer]], or to celebrate a special occasion such as retirement of a respected member of staff. Receptions are also common in [[symposium]] or [[academic conference]] settings, as an environment for attendees to mingle and interact informally. These gatherings may be accompanied by a sit-down dinner, or more commonly, a stand-up informal [[buffet]] meal.

Receptions are also held to celebrate [[art exhibition|exhibition opening]]s at [[art gallery|art galleries]] or museums. The featured artist or artists are often present, as well as the [[curator]]s who organized the exhibition. In addition or instead, a celebratory reception may be held partway through or at the end of an exhibition run. This alternative scheduling allows guests more time to see the exhibition in depth at their own pace, before meeting the featured guests. Some food is often served, as in academic gatherings.

Refreshments at a reception may be as minimal, such as coffee or lemonade, or as elaborate as those at a [[state dinner]].