It is traditional for the bride and groom to arrive first at the wedding reception, followed by the bridesmaids & best man, and the bride's & grooms' mother & father.
Although a receiving line is traditional, you may choose to have something more informal, as it can be quite time-consuming. However, it does give you a chance to greet all your guests personally - but to keep it brief you may consider having only the bride and groom welcoming guests.
The choice of meal is as wide as the choice of caterers and this will be a matter of your personal choice. Of course, one big decision is whether you wish to have a sit-down meal or a buffet, this may be constrained or informed by the cost of each.
Wedding speeches and wedding toasts usually take place after the meal is finished. Traditionally the bride's father and the best man are expected to make a speech, however brief.
The wedding cake is then cut and served to the assembled guests.
Following the reception, the bride and groom depart for their honeymoon and the guest will gradually disperse.