RECEPTION
- For a sensuous pause before a high-energy party, have a small jazz quartet set the tone with a wine and micro-beer tasting, served with cheese selections.
- Old historic mansions offer an exciting alternative to banquet halls.
- Have a kids table to keep children busy during a long reception or dinner – think games, goody bags and activities.
- Managing bar time. Stop serving alcohol one-half hour to an hour before the end of the reception, to limit guests from drinking too much before driving home. If you have big drinkers in your crowd, try to plan accordingly, by offering end-of-the-night transportation, or having your reception at a hotel where your guests can rent rooms.
- Involve your parents when you cut the cake. Add even more meaning to the cake moment by personally serving a piece to one another’s parents after you’ve fed each other. Your parents will be honored!
- After the vows, it’s time to mingle with guests, so plan a classy cocktail hour. Let your warm mood sizzle with a classical guitar and steamy Latin music.
- Mirrors and candles will reflect your loving mood, so place them throughout the reception hall.
- Make a limited bar interesting by offering your favorite wines and micro-brews. Mix it up with a few specialty drinks that are uniquely named just for your wedding.
- Rather than a pricey, all-night, open bar, give your guests generous options that aren’t budget-breakers. Serve specially priced, locally made wine and beer and a ready-made cocktail made with premium vodka.
- Do your homework before you collaborate with your caterer. Research case prices and ask if you can have a special occasion wedding label put on each bottle of wine or beer.
- Be sure that your caterer allows you to bring in wine with personalized wedding labels and ask if there is a cork fee.
- For an ideal dining experience, pair the perfect vintage with each course offered. Your guests will notice this special touch.
- Create a memorable, take-home token for your guests and set up digital photo booths during the cocktail hour.
- You’ll need one bartender for every 100 guests. Hire experienced professionals who are able to tactfully refuse service to over-indulged or under-aged guests.
- Plan safe travel ideas for guests and offer late-night snacks about an hour before the reception is scheduled to end. Set up the service and someone to make an announcement.
- A late-night coffee/tea service has become popular and guests will appreciate this thoughtful gesture prior to their drive home.
- Set up a special table with festive favors along with canapés or veggie pizzas for the guests to snack on throughout the evening.