Hi
I'm hoping to do a cocktail reception instead of a traditional wedding reception. We really just want to have a big party and celebrate and dance with our friends and family (250-300) and thought heavy appetizers and drinks would be a fun way to go. I'm looking for advice/ideas
- I'd like to do the ceremony during the event - short and informal - I really don't want to pick and choose who would be at an earlier ceremony and thought this would be a fun option
- I'm thinking around 7:30 on Satuday night (will include plan in invite)
- Will be serving heavy appetizers, beer and wine
Have you ever been to anything like this? If so, how did it work?
If we are having the ceremony and reception in the same location, it will be set up for the cocktail party as guests get there - I'd be good with everyone grabbing a drink, mingling, and then announcing the ceremony will begin - there will not be seating for the guests but the ceremony will be very short, there will be tables and chairs throughout for about half the guests to sit throughout the night but I envision most people mingling and dancing.
Here are a few questions I'm trying to figure out
- What do we do after the ceremony - walk out together and right back in? Do we mingle for a while or go straight to the dance floor or to cut the cake?
- Does anyone have any ideas for a receiving line for this type of reception to make sure we are able to talk to everyone?
- How much food is enough? We are also going to bring out sandwiches/sliders around 11 or so.
I know this got long, I like to try to address questions that I anticipate being asked.