I love saving money just as much as the next person. And I love it when the money I’m saving belongs to my brides and grooms. (Believe me, nothing is better than staying on, or under budget!)
But not all money saving ideas are good ones, and you’ll occasionally see some bad wedding planning advice.
Recently read an article that suggested couples skip appetizers, since the guests would be filling up on dinner during the reception.
This is bad wedding planning advice!
These days, most couples have their wedding ceremony and reception at the same location, and schedule the reception to immediately follow the ceremony. This makes sense, as it would be rude to expect your guests to leave then come back.
Even if your ceremony and reception are at two different venues, most guests appreciate not having a lag time between the ceremony and reception.
Usually the happy couple and their wedding party will be busy with photos right after the ceremony, so a majority of wedding receptions start off with a cocktail hour, since the reception can’t “officially” start.
What does this have to do with bad wedding planning advice and skipping appetizers?
Think about this – what are guests to do while waiting for the bride and groom to arrive to the reception?
They enjoy some beverages and little nibbles during a cocktail hour. If you offer a cocktail hour, your guests will happily stay occupied until you arrive (with DJ or band playing some light music in the background).
With nothing to drink or snack on, after about 10 minutes or so, they will become antsy and bored. Giving them alcohol to drink but nothing to eat, is certainly bad wedding planning advice. Alcohol on an empty stomach is asking for trouble.
The only way that skipping appetizers will work is if there is no time lag between ceremony and reception.
Appetizers don’t have to be fancy. Inexpensive cheese and crackers, fruit and veggie trays, chips and dips will do nicely.
And no, you don’t have to serve alcohol during the cocktail hour if you prefer to have a dry wedding. Sodas, iced tea, lemonade, and flavored waters will work.
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Have any questions or looking for fun ideas? Weddings From The Heart can help. Contact me today by phone or text at 937-581-3647 or [email protected]!
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Photo credit: magryt / 123RF Stock Photo
