A wedding cocktail hour can mean different things to different people. Couples can take liberties in planning their cocktail hour and can have one that is a good “mixer” for themselves and their guests. Here are five general tips to keep in mind for your wedding cocktail hour.
What Is A Wedding Cocktail Hour?
A wedding cocktail hour is traditionally the time between the ceremony ending and the reception starting. Usually during cocktail hour, guests can enjoy drinks and light hors d’oeuvres to get the evening started. This is also a chance for the new families to get to know each other in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Consider the Decor
Your cocktail hour is a part of your wedding reception, so it needs to coordinate with your theme. The cocktail hour is supposed to be the time to relax before the reception starts, so make sure the décor helps set the mood, and you have enough seating and standing tables for your guests to rest their beverages.
Mix Familiar Foods and Drinks With Something New
A big part of the cocktail hour is the food and drink menu. Guests will probably be looking for something familiar, such as a charcuterie board or a bite made with puff pastry. Add some seasonal foods to your menu, and work with your caterer to showcase local flavors you love. Decide with your caterer or venue if servers will serve from carry trays or from a central table. Pair the food with classic cocktails and liquor, along with local wines and brews.
Have Music to Help Set the Mood
Music is an important part of any celebration. For the cocktail hour use a playlist filled with music that will help set the mood. Soft jazz or classic standards either with or without lyrics is a great place to start. If you want live music, consider telling the band what kind of music you want for the cocktail hour; that way they can work with you to find the perfect mix. Music can be personal for a couple, so throwing a song or two that reminds you of each other, the first concert you went to, or a song you heard when you first started seeing each other can be fun.
Consider an Interactive Element for Guests
Guests are coming from your ceremony, which is a lot of sitting, and going into the reception which is more sitting. Having an interactive element for guests, such as lawn games, flights or wine and beer, a build your own pizza or taco bar, salad bar, and having the bites out on a table like a buffet is a great way to keep guests moving during cocktail hour. The guests can also chat with each other while enjoying an interactive element in a relaxed atmosphere.
Follow these tips and find the ones that work for you. Check out our bridal collection if you’re in the market for a wedding dress.