Tips for Planning a Cocktail Party Wedding Reception

Couples have been trending away from traditional seated wedding dinners for the last few years. One of the most popular new styles to emerge from this trend is the cocktail party wedding reception. A cocktail reception is typically very glamorous, relatively affordable, and a lot of fun! Check out these tips for planning a cocktail reception that everyone will enjoy.

Because they are non-traditional by nature, it makes sense to choose a unique venue for a cocktail reception. Depending on the size of your guest list, it could be a loft, an art gallery, a wine bar, a museum, or perhaps a tent. While you certainly could host a cocktail reception in a more standard venue like a wedding hall, country club, or ballroom, you would lose some of the special ambiance that gives this type of celebration its hip and chic reputation.

One thing that clearly distinguishes a cocktail reception from a traditional seated wedding dinner is...the lack of traditional seating. You won't find a dozen round tables for ten at a cocktail party. The vibe is much more mingle and sip than sit down for an extended time. That said, it is important that you have adequate seating for all of your guests. Sufficient table space is also crucial. If you have ever tried to hold a drink, balance a plate of appetizers, and eat all at the same time, you know why! A good arrangement is a combination of small tall tables with stools (preferably the kind with backs) and low sofas with side tables and coffee tables. This type of furniture can easily be rented if your site does not have it.

Since the focus at a cocktail reception is not a full meal, the menu will be a bit different. For one thing, you won't have a cocktail hour followed by a traditional reception with dinner, given that the whole party is like an extended cocktail hour. A cocktail reception tends to be shorter in duration, which can help save money for the couple on a budget. The menu should mostly be easy-to-eat finger foods and small bites. Since you will not be serving dinner afterward, plan on a much larger quantity of appetizers than you would for a 45 minute cocktail hour. The closer to a typical meal time your reception will be, the heavier you should go on the hors d'oeuvres.

Passed hors d'oeuvres of all types should be served by waitstaff. You will also want to set up several displays where guests can help themselves, including a cheese display. Think creatively about what your guests might enjoy. You can add a few interesting stations to your cocktail reception to make the food really special. Options include a tapas bar, raw bar, sushi station, and a mashed potato bar. Sometimes couples also have a pasta station; while not exactly an appetizer, pasta is inexpensive and filling for those who will find appetizers alone to be too light. Naturally, you will want to have a full selection of cocktails, wine, and beer for this style of reception. Many couples also incorporate a signature drink, which is both chic and can trim the bar bill a bit too.

Since a cocktail wedding is non-traditional, the bride will likely want to select an interesting dress and unique bridal jewelry. A princess style ballgown would be out of place for this celebration. A cocktail reception is the perfect excuse to choose a chic short wedding gown, worn with a fascinator and unique handmade bridal jewelry. 1950's or '60's retro inspired dresses are also fabulous for the bride. Round out the evening with music provided by a jazz trio for the perfect background to a chic cocktail wedding reception.