I went to a wedding of a family member last week and after the ceremony, there was a 1 to 1.5 hr gap. No food was offered and the alcohol was not free (well, light beers were free but everything else cost $$). I assumed the gap was for taking pictures and although gaps are rude, I know they commonly happen so I don't get too worked up over them.
My mom told me that she asked one of the bridesmaids she saw roaming around when pictures were going to be done so they could eat and she said, "Oh, we did pictures before the ceremony. The bridal party is just hanging out at the bar downstairs drinking."
Ceremony and reception were at the same location....but they had an unnecessary gap so they could drink at a private bar without their guests.
Do people really do this? Is this really a thing????? I have never heard of this and am appalled. I had a lot of my family members tell me "You really set the bar at your wedding!" so again, I need to thank the knot for teaching me proper etiquette, although it really is common sense that you don't leave your guests stranded with no food and expensive drinks so that you can host your own private party downstairs.