Need help with reception idea

butterflykiss1973

My fiance and I are considering having a "casino night" as part of our wedding reception, but we also want to retain some of the "traditional" aspects of the reception, like the bouquet and garter tosses, dinner, cake cutting, and maybe have an open dance floor...we think we can make it work, but we're having trouble figuring out the timing for everything...any suggestions?

lyndausvi

timeline

cocktail hour
First Dance
Toasts?
Dinner
Cake cutting
Open both the dance floor and the casino (that way the guests can do either one)

I would just skip the tosses.  I did and they were not missed at all.

Brie2010

I agree with lynda.

I would also make sure to check with your venue first--gambling laws tend to be pretty strict and they may not allow it. 

aerinpegadrak

Most casino nights I've been to use fake money, so the guests aren't actually gambling, the venue doesn't have nearly as much liability, and underage guests can participate too.  You might use chocolate coins or something like that, so guests can still get something out of it even if they're not making actual cash.

I think Lynda's got the right idea for the timeline, though I've seen the first dance and spotlight dances done after dinner right before the dance floor is opened.

jenn.daniel

That sounds really fun.  Check with your venue to make sure it’s allowed, and like pp say, use chocolate coins or something like that.

Angel Helper

Hi  
I would open the casino during the cocktail hour.  I think it could be a lot of fun.  If you wait and open it at the same time as dancing you will take away from the special dancing /party time.  I understand the thought of either dancing or casino, but imagine as you are dancing and the crowd roars in the back ground because someone won big.  I think it could be a distraction.  I think it could really separate the party. 1/2 dancing 1/2 at the casino.   If done in the in the beginnig it gives guests of all ages something to do while you are doing photos ect.  I love the chocolate coin idea.  Just my thoughts.  I'm sure what ever you do it will be fun.  Good Luck.