Monday Coffee: weddings + cocktail hour

We wanted to dedicate this Monday's Coffee advice to weddings and cocktail hour. We have so many clients who have this debate as to whether or not they'll offer guests tray passed hors d' oeuvres and drinks before dinner or how long to host the cocktail time for. We most always suggest having a cocktail time and staging it for no more than an hour and a half (an hour is usually perfect).

Often times this is necessary at a venue where the ceremony + reception are in the same room. The room will need to be smoothly turned for dinner service and this is a great opportunity to magically transform it.

Cocktail hour is also a great chance for the bride and groom to steal away for photos or a moment to breathe and gives your guests a chance to relax and visit. Make sure to offer non-alcoholic beverages as well as beer, wine, and mixed drinks (if you're having an open bar). Offer a variety of either tray passed or stationed hors d' oeuvres (one vegetarian option is always a must). Keep in mind anything more than our recommended time will likely leave you with antsy guests who are getting hungry (and drinking). We want our clients' guests to feel well taken care of, enjoy the food and drinks and atmosphere, and feel relaxed. The last thing you want is for your guests to wonder where the bride and groom are or wait two hours for dinner. These simple little cocktail hour tips will be sure to make for a successful event!
Happy Planning, Aleah + Nick
Photo by Laurel McConnell