The Wedding Reception

Planning the reception can be the biggest single task of wedding preparation. The reception is designed to allow the guests to congratulate you as newlyweds, to join in the toasts to your health and happiness, to witness the cutting of the cake and to wish you well as you leave for your honeymoon. It is also an opportunity for your two families to get to know each other better.

To begin planning your reception, you should concentrate on key decisions such as selecting the venue, deciding on the menu and drinks that you will serve, choosing your wedding cake, and deciding on the entertainment. Other things to consider, besides your personal preference, are your budget and the number of guests you are planning to invite.

The first decision you will probably make is the type of reception you would really like. A small, intimate cocktail party at a chic bar? A buffet and disco at a hotel? Or a sit down meal and jazz band in a marquee at your parents' home? Make sure you choose whatever you and your partner really want, and not just what you think is expected of you. If you fancy a barbeque with fire eating and limbo dancing for entertainment, then go for it! This is a time to celebrate your happiness, and after all, it's your day.

No matter how informal your wedding is to be, a traditional receiving and greeting of guests at the start of the reception is always worthwhile. This gives you the chance to spend a few minutes with each of your guests in turn, making them feel important to your day.

However, as the time you spend talking to your guests will be limited, think about having a guest book so that your guests can write their own personal messages to you. Later, you and your new spouse will be able to read the book together, and you will have a sentimental memento to treasure for years to come.

See also our main guide: The Wedding Reception.