The bride and groom are not religious and do not want 'grace" said before eating at the reception. Is there a toast or a poem or something someone could say before the meal to formally start us off? Other than " dig in". Anyone?

I could not find anything for before the wedding meal other than grace. I think that if I was in that situation I (the bride and groom or the host) would have a speech thanking everyone for coming and tell them how much it means that you get to share the special day with them. Then you could just tell them to enjoy themselves the rest of the reception. After this if you have your family go first everyone else will follow.

Hope this helps!

I would welcome every one to the event and thank them as well.

Say welcome and thank for coming to the wedding is a polite way

I think a personal little thank you and welcome is always the best. It really personalizes the wedding and makes the guests feel that the bride/groom appreciate that they came.

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I agree with everyone a thank you for coming and enjoy your night should be said by the bride, groom, or a parent. You can ask the dj or reception facility to handle who gets up, or who is being served first. They usually handle this after the prayer so I don’t' know why it would be any different for no prayer.... Writing the mini speech should be no big deal. Try starting with: We wanted to thank everyone for sharing in our special day. Then add something personal and end with: Please enjoy your evening, eat, dance, and be merry.