What is a cocktail style wedding reception?


Sharing is Caring


What Is a Cocktail Party Reception? A cocktail party reception is a type of reception where no formal meal is served and instead guests indulge in a variety of hors d’oeuvres.

How do you decorate for cocktail hour?

Gorgeous Decor: Linens & Centerpieces Make cocktail tables stand out with a stunning linen and floral centerpiece combo. For a dramatic table top, tie rich burgundy fabric with a blush satin bow and top with a lovely white and wine colored arrangement set in a shimmering vase.

How do you plan a wedding cocktail reception?

  1. Arrange for a big surprise.
  2. Rope in an independent artist.
  3. Plan for good food options.
  4. Embrace a theme.
  5. Involve your loved ones.

What do you serve at a wedding cocktail hour?

  • Mini Meatballs. A mini meatball should be easy to devour in just one bite.
  • Lettuce Cups.
  • Satay.
  • Deviled Eggs.
  • Cocktail Shrimp.
  • Pot Stickers.
  • Pretzel Bites.
  • Savory Shortbreads.

How many seats are in a cocktail reception?

4 or 5 max is the general consensus. Certainly no more than that. Remember, it’s a high top table so you don’t need to worry about comfortable leg room or accounting for enough space for folding chairs or chiavari chairs. Let’s start with a smaller gathering to really nail down some hard numbers and move up from there.

What does the bride and groom do during cocktail hour?

Cocktail hour exists solely to entertain your guests while the bride and groom get their photos taken.

How long should a cocktail wedding be?

How Long Does Cocktail Hour Last? Typically an hour, but it can go up to 90 minutes if extra time is needed for photos or to flip the reception space. If you’ll be going longer, it’s a good idea to include games or other activities to keep guests occupied.

What is cocktail style seating?

In a nutshell, a cocktail reception is way more relaxed and your guests will fill up on hors d’oeuvres and small bites throughout the reception. A seated reception is more formal and your guests will eat plated meals or help themselves to a buffet.

How do you decorate for a cocktail party?

  1. Glassware. Add a personal touch to your party by creating customized wine glasses or custom mason jars to serve your cocktails.
  2. Table Centerpieces. Table centerpieces are your opportunity to show off your party’s theme.
  3. Custom Cutting Boards.
  4. Candles.
  5. Floral Arrangements.
  6. Lighting.

What do guests do during cocktail hour?

The party portion of the day kicks off with cocktail hourโ€”a chance for guests to mingle, sip on signature drinks and Champagne, and snack on yummy hors d’oeuvres. This part of your big day is all about the guests, since you, your new spouse, and your wedding party are likely busy taking photographs.

Do you need music during cocktail hour?

While there is no rule stating that your wedding cocktail hour should be accompanied by background music, we like to consider it an important part of the event. Adding cocktail hour to the wedding’s order of events can help guests seamlessly transition from ceremony to reception.

How many appetizers do I need for 100 guests?

Appetizers If you’re offering catered appetizers, plan for about six portions per guest. For a party of 100 guests, this adds up to roughly 600 appetizer portions.

How long is a cocktail reception?

Cocktail Wedding Reception Timeline A cocktail wedding usually lasts 3 to 4 hours. You can include as many wedding traditions as you’d like. You can plan a casual style wedding with drinks, appetizers and mingling.

What time should a cocktail party start?

What Time Should A Cocktail Party Start? The typical time to host a cocktail party is between 6 to 8 pm. Cocktail parties generally last for only about 2-3 hours. By providing an end time, your guests can make plans afterwards and you won’t be left with a guest who overstays their welcome.

Do you need chairs for cocktail tables?

While cocktail tables can accommodate chairs, they can stand alone.

How do you keep guests entertained during cocktail hour?

  1. Croquet on the Lawn.
  2. A Giant Jenga Set.
  3. Roasting Marshmallows.
  4. A Game of Checkers.
  5. DIY Wooden Wedding Sign.
  6. Mariachi Band Cocktail Hour Music.
  7. Mini-Popsicle Cocktails.

How many appetizers do I need for cocktail hour?

2-4 pieces per person, 30-60 minutes before dinner, cocktail hour. 5-6 pieces per person, 1.5-2 hour event, preceding dinner time.

Do you need food at cocktail hour?

Consider the Food No, the cocktail hour isn’t the reception, so you shouldn’t be expected to provide a full meal to guests during this time. You do, however, want to provide three or four delicious appetizers to keep your guests’ stomaches happy until dinner is served.

How many tables do I need for cocktail hour?

For a standing room only event or cocktail hour, the rule of thumb is to rent 1 cocktail table for every 4-5 guests. Simply take the number of guests and divide by 4 or 5. So if you have 100 guests, plan on 20-25 cocktail table rentals.

What is cocktail theme?

Cocktail dress code involves casual suits and dress shirts for men. To adapt cocktail attire for more formal occasions, like weddings, add a tie or bow tie. For events that require cocktail attire, you can wear something more fashion-forward than your business suit.

What cocktail attire means?

Cocktail attire is a balance between formal and casual and elegant and comfortable. To an event with this dress code, such as a wedding, men typically wear a suit and tie while women wear a cocktail dress. “Cocktail attire is meant to bridge the gap between day and night,” explains bridal consultant LauraLee Baird.

What does the cocktail party symbolize?

First of all, Eliot’s play “The Cocktail Party’ handled the theme of martyrdom. The conception of a martyr is embedded in the Christian symbolism of the ‘Scapegoat’. Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for the sake of the sins of mankind and he plays the role of the innocent lamb slaughtered as a sacrifice.

What is cocktail attire for a party?

Cocktail attire describes an outfit that is appropriate to wear to parties and other semi-formal events. For women, that typically means dresses and heels, but it absolutely doesn’t have to! A cocktail attire dress code calls for something different from what you’d wear to super formal, black-tie affairs.

How long should your wedding reception be?

Your typical wedding reception runs about 4-5 hoursโ€”plenty of time for cocktails, dinner, toasts and, of course, dancing!

How do you keep wedding guests entertained during pictures?

Wedding photos can be a great time to let your guests mingle while enjoying some drinks and/or appetizers. Some ways to do this effectively could be with a cocktail hour, by having a food truck on location, or with an appetizing buffet. Music is another way for guests to enjoy the break during your photography time.

Craving More Content?

Erin Respan