My reception ideas please help

cryssfriend

We are getting married alone in Hawaii and coming back to have a big reception.  I have people that we could have picked for the bridemaids and groomsmens but since we are only having a reception thats kind of out.  Should I still make the seating arangments like a few long tables in the front with the people that would have been on each side of us? 
I just am so lost. wedding in less then 6 months. 
We are having the reception in a big open room.  There are long (rectangle) tables availible and also we are having at around 3pm on a sunday so serving appitizers are okay correct?  with cake as well.  Just want to have the dances an all that jazz.. what seems nice and not too expensive to you all!?  Thanks so much!

SaraAndrew2010

Since you don't really have a wedding party, I wouldn't set up a long head table.  Head tables are kind of falling out of fashion since often the B/G and wedding party don't like feeling like they are on display the entire dinner and those long tables make it difficult to talk to anyone besides the person on either side of you.  I would just sit and a regular round table and invite your closest friends to sit with you.

ouchik03

I think a slideshow of pictures from your destination wedding would be a great way to let your guests feel like a part of the ceremony as well.  As far as food, since the reception is not at a meal time, appetizers are perfect.  I agree that a head table is not necessary unless you really want it (it's your wedding you can do anything you want).  You can acknowldege those friends that would have been your wedding party by announcement during the reception or including something in the slideshow to thank them.

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amandajean36

i would do regular round seating for the guests, or longer tables on an angle (see the pic below).

for your table, i would do a smaller table - just you and your husband.  since you don't have a wedding party, i wouldn't do a head table.