Cocktail "celebration" after a destination or very small family only wedding

sriel

Anyone ever done this? We're thinking of doing just a small church ceremony with immediate family members only...and then going out to dinner wtih just them afterwards. But then doing a "celebration" not a reception with just cocktails, apps and dancing a weekend or two afterwards. Wondering if this alternative idea to a traditional wedding is well received...and a cost saver? Thanks.

Maggie0829

What you are planning is completely fine.

As a cost saver?  I don't really think it would be because you could always invite everyone to the ceremony and then still have the cocktail reception afterwards.  But if what you want is a very intimate ceremony with just family members and then a bigger celebration/party a weekend or two later, that is fine as well.

Peavy

Actually, you will end up spending more money doing it this way, because you are buying dinner for all those attending your wedding as well as having the cocktail party.  This assumes that those who attend the wedding will also attend the cocktail party.  Also, if you are having your cocktail party with dancing during a mealtime - say 6-10PM - you will need enough food to equate a meal.