Is it okay to not have tradtional dances/reception activities?

lilvixta · September 2010

We are taking a cruise to our wedding destination and getting married at a resort while in port. We are only having a 2 hour reception because everyone has to be back on the ship by a certain time. I originally planned to do all the usual reception activies like the Bride & Groom first dance, Father/Daughter dance, Mother/Son dance, Garter Toss & Bouquet Toss (Am I forgetting anything?). Now I am worried that we are not going to be able to enjoy our reception because we will be scarfing down our lunches, doing all these dances, trying to get around to each table. Would it be weird to not do almost all of those activites? My fiance doesn't care if we even have our own first dance. We really just want to be able to enjoy the time, and I'm thinking since everythings is right on the beach and relaxed, it may be acceptable. Thoughts and Feelings?

danieliza1127 · September 2010

I think I would definitely skip all of those traditions. Just have lunch and enjoy yourselves. Two hours will seriously fly by.

aerinpegadrak · September 2010

We skipped all that stuff; the only "traditional" reception things we had were the cake cutting and a few toasts. It was really nice, I don't think anyone felt bored.

trix1223 · September 2010

Skip almost all of them. I'd keep the cake cutting and toasts as aerin said. The rest....won't be missed, and your guests will appreciate not being interrupted in their conversations and meal to stop and watch "stuff".

[Deleted User] · September 2010

Skip them esp if you are limited on time. And yes, the day will fly by. I would think you would want to spend more time doing pictures and spending time with the people that came instead of doing all the dances.

elisabethb29 · September 2010

Skip em! It's your choice!! Do some if you want, or do none, whatever you want

impslave · September 2010

We had a reception dinner in a restaurant for a two-hour package. There was no dancing, or any of the "traditional" wedding rituals. Just a really great dinner, followed by our cake cutting and toasts. Everyone had a great time and we loved it.

dizzinea · September 2010

i think that the fact that it's got a resort cruise thing happening is enough, give everyone food and just enjoy each other, you can even still do your first dance, or play music and have the special dances happen organically but not make an announcement/big deal out of it, just enjoy your day and let the place be enough

kelly4976 · September 2010

Personally, I have always hated the feeling of having to watch the reception rituals while waiting for the actual fun to start. I'd rather show up at the reception 2 hours later; when the actual enjoying yourself and visiting part happens. So, definitely, just start there. Have fun, let your guests have fun, and everyone will remember your wedding as a great time!

HappilyPlanning17 · September 2010

It's your wedding. You can do whatever the hell you want!

lilvixta · September 2010

Thanks for all of the responses! It makes me feel better.

@Brooklclark: We have to do a fast reception because the cruise is only docked at the port from 730AM-2PM. Wedding starts at 10:30, lunch at 11:00! Its very quick but we are not a traditional couple. We know the party will continue back on the ship anyways. And yes, everyone coming to the wedding is cruising with us - we have 50 guests total. So thats a good point - I'll get plenty of time back on the ship. Its been a challenge coordinating everyting but its going to be worth it!

Lisa50 · September 2010

There are no requirements for your reception. Do what YOU and your fiance (HUSBAND, by then!) want to do and what time allots.

Have a great time. Congratulations!

Kate504 · September 2010

i really don't want to do the dancing either......i'm actually going to a wedding with no music.....boring but do what you can. i wouldn't force anything.

mm133123 · September 2010

I agree with Kelly, totally.

Is it okay to not have tradtional dances/reception activities?

Re: Is it okay to not have tradtional dances/reception activities?

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