Informal Wedding Reception Etiquette
As many brides choose to plan weddings that are less traditional and more informal, there are host of ways any of the standard elements of the wedding can be planned. From holding the reception in a large backyard to changing from the gown into a cocktail or party dress, your reception can be as casual as you like. However, you'll remember that your lax planning style doesn't have to mean tacky, so consider ways to plan your event to have informal, yet appropriate.
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Venue
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Choose a reception venue location that fits you and your fiancé's personalities. If you are both more backyard or outdoor cabin than elegant ballroom with chandeliers, stick to it. Your reception is the after-party celebration where your family and friends will commemorate your official union. If you prefer a beach house after your sand-kissed ceremony, go with the location that suits you best. However, remember that there are some key elements to keeping decorum for your affair, such as leaving room for guests to sit and eat and having a source of entertainment to keep the guests occupied.
Food and Beverage
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Create a signature drink for you and your spouse. Perhaps you let guests only order Lovetinis or you do not wish to have alcoholic beverages at your affair at all. The choice in the beverages and bar you make available is yours. Some very informal weddings allow guests to bring their own bottled alcohol; however you will want to consider how your guests may respond to a BYOB affair, no matter how casual the setting is.
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Food
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When it comes to food, you do not have to have a fully catered and plated meal. Heavy hors d' oeuvres or dessert functions are suitable for an informal reception. Simply let guests know on the invitation and RSVP any of your nontraditional methods so they will be prepared to eat in advance if necessary.
The Extras
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From switching out the DJ with your MP3 player to using nixing all the specialty dances and speeches with a good, old-fashioned party, choose how you wish to plan the program of your reception. For shy brides and grooms, being in the spotlight by tossing a bouquet, digging for a garter or even dancing in front of your family and friends may not be preferred. Instead, encourage everyone to join on the dance floor, get more food and have a good time.
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References
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