Cocktail Reception

irisleaf

I was wondering if it would be alright if I just made my reception one long cocktail party and not serve a formal dinner.  I would like to have the wedding at 2pm so we would get to the reception party by 3:30pm after photos.  Does anyone think this is way too out of the normal and I really should serve dinner or would finger sandwiches and appetisers with drinks be fine?

-ScarletFox

mbcdefg

3:30 sounds fine for appetizers. People wouldn't be expecting a meal around that time. Just put "Cocktail reception to follow" on your invites so that people know it won't be a big dinner.

What time would the ceremony end? Just be sure that people can start eating if they'll be waiting around for you to take photos. Even something simple, like vegetable platters or cheese and crackers.

danieliza1127

That's actually really common for an afternoon reception, and perfectly acceptable.  Be sure to plan something for your guests to do between the ceremony and reception though while you're doing pictures.  It's usually considered pretty rude to just leave them waiting around for an hour or more with nothing to do and no where to go.  Most people plan a cocktail hour with some drinks and light appetizers before the reception officially starts.

aerinpegadrak

What you have planned sounds fine.  Definitely make sure that your guests have refreshments while you're taking pictures; our pictures are probably only going to take half an hour, but we're going to pick up a couple of snack trays in case the caterer isn't ready to go by then.

flutgrl1

Sounds yummy. !!!

trevillian2be

Thank you for this comment I love this idea we just want to be able to fellowship and then go to our room.  Not to much into the sit down reception idea.

Thanks

ckarei101

love the cocktail reception idea we are having one ourselves. definitely have the food and drinks ready to be served and have your dj put on the party music. we are having a raffle foor gift cards and centerpieces for the guest while we take our pics. guest should be in full swing when you enter. you get the party and the early alone time with the hubby.