Choosing the right type of reception

Once you have determined the time and style of you’re wedding and have considered the number of guests and size of your budget, it is a good time to decide what type of reception will fit into your budget. Listed below are the various types of receptions.

Breakfast or brunch: The food is usually fruit, bread and other breakfast foods. The reception usually begins around 10:00 or 11:00am. Some advantages are it is inexpensive and it will allow for you to leave for your honeymoon on the same day. Disadvantages are you have less time to get ready and it may be hard for guests who need to drive a long distance.

Luncheon: The food usually consists of sandwiches, salads, pasta and fruits. It also follows a late-morning wedding. Advantages are it is inexpensive and allows for driving and getting ready time. But it is early enough that you don’t have too much time to get nervous. A major disadvantage is if you hire a band or DJ for dancing, many guests may be less likely to get up and dance during the day.

Tea reception: The food served is mostly finger sandwiches, nuts, chocolate and cake. The reception is generally held between 2 and 5 p.m. One advantage is it’s the least expensive type of reception. Another advantage is it is great for a large guest list and a small budget. A minor disadvantage is the guests are not offered a full meal.

Cocktail party or appetizer only reception: The food is often hot and cold appetizers, passed or on buffet tables. The reception is usually held between 4-7 p.m. One advantage is it is usually less expensive than a dinner reception. Another advantage is it is still in the evening, so it can be formal or informal. A major disadvantage is that the guests aren’t offered a full meal, even though it is dinnertime.

Dinner reception: The food is served as a sit-down meal, a buffet or in food stations. The meals vary, but usually several dishes are offered and a cocktail hour precedes the formal reception. These receptions begin around anywhere from 6 to 9 p.m. There are several advantages to this type of reception. It is the most common time for a reception. The guests are often in a “party mode”; often ready to dance the night away. This is also the most formal type of reception. The major disadvantage is it typically is the most expensive reception type.