The question for the day: Should you have a cocktail hour after the ceremony, before the ceremony or ditch the idea all together? I've been reading answers from several wedding forums and there seems to be no strong consensus. The cocktail hour allows the venue to flip the room (if necessary), allows the couple time to take pictures and guests time to mingle. However, many guests are bored with the time lapse between the ceremony and reception. Again, it will depend on the couple but clearly there are no rules when it comes to cocktail hour. What's your opinion on pre-wedding cocktail hour?
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Cocktail hour appetizers
Shawna Herring Photography |
Here are a few answers from the Knot:
I think this can be done. You could have some passed appetizers with a signature drink as guests arrive. After the ceremony, you could move straight into the reception.
I have been to two weddings where they have done this--mostly champagne and strawberries and light apps. I think it is fine. You know your crowd--is it something they would go for? kasabby
I wouldn't bother having a cocktail hour before the ceremony. Just speaking from personal experience, if I've had some appetizers and a couple of drinks, I'm not going to feel like then sitting through a ceremony before getting back to the "party". sunico
For the right wedding, I think this can work well. Something more casual, that may take place at loft space or something other than a traditional banquet style venue. Some guests might appreciate going from ceremony straight to reception.
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