How long should a cocktail reception last?
My fiancé and i are planning a cocktail style wedding reception and are really worried that people might get bored! Not sure how much small talk people can really make?! We will have a dance floor, plus a guest book to sign, 'marriage advice' to give/wedlibs that sort of thing - as well as having cake cutting and first dance etc - but really how long is safe? We are currently thinking 4 hours..... We just don't want out guests to be bored!!!!
Cassie M
Question Asked: 13/06/2017
Wedding Date: 11/11/2017
Wedding Location: East Fremantle, WA 6158
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(0) · Sydney, Central Coast / Gosford, Newcastle / Hunter Valley / Port Stephens, Regional, Southern Highl
Posted: 3/06/2018
Answered by: 3 Experts
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Hello Cassie
4 hours is about average for a cocktail reception. You would probably serve the food over a 2 hour period followed by other formalities then dancing and maybe some supper later on. Mostly people catch up with other guests at a wedding that they dont often see so I'm sure that they wouldnt get bored
Regards
Louise
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Hi
Usual time is 4 hours.
Some points to consider:
1.TELL YOUR GUESTS WHAT TO EXPECT
This one is first because it’s simultaneously the least and most obvious (and definitely very important) aspect of planning a cocktail reception: your guests need to know. This can be as simple as stating “cocktail reception and cake to follow” on your invites, but if you know a lot of people prone to getting hangry, you may want to gently remind them that they won’t be getting dinner at your reception. As someone who is definitely prone to getting hangry, I thank you.
2. APP STATIONS ARE A GOOD IDEA
So maybe it sounds like having servers carry around trays of delicious food is a good idea, but if the trays of food are the ONLY food at your party, then it… might not work out. Basically whenever a tray is presented the server will probably be immediately besieged by guests who are looking for food, and most of your appetizers will never make it much further than the kitchen door. Setting up app stations allows guests to get food as they please.
3. MIX UP YOUR SEATING OPTIONS
You’ll want to have a mixture of hi-top cocktail style tables and regular tables and chairs. Generally speaking, grandparents will almost always want to sit and your friends will pretty much always be cool with standing, but you never know for sure (also: heels). But it’s important to consider mobility issues/comfort requirements beyond those of your elderly guests (which can be accomplished by including a line on the RSVP requesting exactly that information). In any case, make sure there is enough seating for guests to rotate through. Even twenty-somethings get tired feet.
4. CONSIDER A NON TRADITIONAL START TIME
A 2pm reception will tell people that they should plan to have lunch before arriving, eat a few snacks while there, and that they’ll be out in plenty of time for dinner. Hosting your reception at 7pm gives people the option to have a light dinner ahead of time without stuffing themselves, since they can count on appetizers and cake at the party. Anytime between 4 and 6 enters the fuzzy area: some people really do eat dinner at 5pm (I’m one of them), and not offering dinner during that time span will probably ruffle feathers.
5. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A BACK-UP PLAN
Apps go super, super quickly, especially when they’re mega delicious. It might be a good idea to have a back-up plan (tip: pizza is almost always a crowd pleaser). You may not end up needing to activate your backup plan, but if you know someone who is willing to spring for some slices (or if you yourself are), it’ll be good to have that information ahead of time for your own sanity.