Need a Wedding Reception Idea? Why Not Have a Cocktail Reception?

Most couples spend almost as much time and energy planning their receptions as they do on the actual ceremonies, plus the reception is by far going to represent the largest chunk of your wedding budget. That means the reception should be something special.

If you don’t have the budget for or an interest in a formal reception with a sit down meal, then why not choose something a little more unique: a cocktail reception.

Cocktail Reception Basics

First, you need to know how cocktail receptions differ from traditional receptions. For one, they are adults only. If you have guests with children, then you’ll need to keep them somewhere separate and entertained either by other guests or by a hired babysitter (this is actually a good idea for any reception). Obviously, a cocktail reception should include alcoholic drinks. To keep costs down, you may want to limit the types of drinks that are available. For example, you may want to serve beer, wine, and a few harder drinks but not the more expensive mixed drinks. That choice is yours.

Another difference is the mingling. At a traditional reception, the guests are given assigned seats and usually only move around to dance or head to the buffet line or bar. At a cocktail reception, however, everyone is standing and moving around freely. You can have a few small tables in the corner, but most people are just getting to know one another and enjoying the entertainment. It’s more of a nightclub atmosphere. Because of this difference, you’ll save money: you can rent a smaller venue, rent fewer tables, and have no servers for meals.

Generally, cocktail receptions won’t include much food either. You can have the standard wedding cake, but instead of serving it to your guests you can have pieces cut and available for guests to pick up at their leisure. Instead of a buffet or sit down meal, you might have some appetizers on platters moving through the crowd or baskets of Happy Hour snacks, such as pretzels or peanuts.

Letting People Know About Your Cocktail Reception

Obviously, it’s a good idea to let people know about your unique reception. You can begin spreading the word by choosing themed invitations, such as Martini Toasting, Martini Classic, or Champagne Die-Cut invitations.

Make sure to address the invitations only to the adults so they know not to bring their children. If babysitting will be available, you can include a separate note to let them know so they won’t make separate arrangements. You should also encourage your family and wedding party to spread the word as well.