Cocktail Reception...A Great idea!

The key to all weddings is to make it YOUR DAY, MAKE it personable.  By adding your style and excitement, I guarantee it can and will be extraordinary! Thinking of new ideas to spice up your wedding day events? Well- be different, and think about a jazzy Cocktail Wedding Reception!

Cocktail receptions are a great way to save money and be untraditional yet social and fun.  With the basic elements and a few standard rules you’ll be set for a fabulous memorable wedding ceremony & reception.

                                       Credit: Con Poulos/Brides.com

Basic Elements

1.   Time & Entertainment: Cocktail parties are usually between the times of 6pm &10pm.  Chairs are not needed for 100% of all guests.  The goal is to allow your friends and family the opportunity to mix and mingle.  As guests wait for you and the bridal party to arrive, consider reception entertainment activities. 
                                     

A. Hire a Wedding Magician: This alternative is great, and gives your family and friends the option to get involve or just dance to the music playing in the background.  For more information and ideas view DC’s national award winning magician: Josh Norris

B. Top 10 to get the Party started: We’ve all been to receptions where waiting for the bride and groom takes forever! Get the MC and DJ to tag team to really bring the excitement and celebration.  Consider making a Top 10 Music list to get the party going. As the list dwindles down to your Top Number 1 song, you and the groom should be done with pictures and ready to make the grand entrance.

2.  My guests need to know?: By the cocktail reception not being the traditional sit down meal, make sure guests are fully aware of limited food given. This allows guest to prepare to grab food before or after wedding ceremony. Simple wording on the invitation can look as such below. Printed on invitations is a must!

: The honor of your presence
is requested
at The A Golf Country Club
on Saturday, November 12, 2011
Join us in our celebration for Cocktails and Hors d'oeuvres

 3. Theme and Decorations: Last but not least always take detail to decor and the theme of your wedding.  It’s not required, but try to achieve a common chord through both ceremony and reception with decorations.  Many believe that it takes lots of money to carry out a creative eye catching reception theme.  However, with time and thought, you’re sure to have an awesome and memorable event. Take a look at a few ideas below from awesome vendors around the world.

                                               Lovely floral design!

Credits: Royal Bloom

 

A white reception is always nice. (unknown photographer)

1001 Arbian Nights

                                                     Credits: Raleigh Wedding Blog

                                             Credits: E-HomeGarden- ing