What are the steps to marriage?

When people tie the knot, do they do the legal part first then a couple days later do the reception? Or do they do the legal part then a year later do the reception? How do most people go about that? Can it be done either way? Help!!!

Usually... They have the wedding, sign the marriage license and have the reception... usually all on the same day.
You usually apply for a marriage license a month before marriage. That is how I've always seen it done with the weddings I've been to. Could be different for other people though.