How to Plan the Perfect Wedding Cocktail Hour
Once you and your partner are officially wed, it’s time to party hard — and the cocktail hour generally launches the festivities. It is this more casual portion of the day that is the bridge between the ceremony and the reception, allowing guests to relax over drinks and appetizers in the middle of the day without the structure of a more formal environment. “The cocktail hour is sort of like a warm-up,” says Clara Bennett, the founder of Velvet Vine Events. “It’s that time when you get your drink, have a few bites and get your party hat on.
More than setting the right mood, though, the cocktail hour has its practical uses. It allows your event team to set up the reception space and for you and your partner to take more photos if you’d like.
Wedding Cocktail Hour Basics
If you’re preparing your first wedding cocktail hour, these are the key things to keep in mind:
What Is a Cocktail Hour?
The cocktail hour is the hour between the wedding ceremony and the reception during which guests unwind, mingle, and refresh themselves. It may include drinks, appetizers and, occasionally, theme-relevant entertainment or music (either recorded or live) to have a casual theme and to get the friends and family members of the wedding couple introduced in a more relaxed environment.
When Does It Happen?
It’s usually held immediately following the ceremony. But some couples elect to have it before the ceremony for cultural or practical reasons. If you choose to have a pre-ceremony cocktail hour, think through the transition and don’t let your guests get over served too early in the day.
How Long Should It Last?
As the name suggests, cocktail hour is traditionally one hour long, but can be stretched slightly, especially if you need time for additional photos. Mia Dawson, an event planner, recommends not going beyond 90 minutes to prevent guests from getting antsy.
Who Attends?
Guests attend the cocktail hour, while you and your wedding party may or may not join, depending on whether you are taking photos or wish to mingle immediately.
What to Serve
Drinks
Have a diverse range of drinks from wine, beer and spirits to cocktails made specifically for your tale. And don’t forget the water and non-alcoholic selections. To prevent long lines, use one bartender per 35-40 guests and think about passing pre-poured drinks.
Appetizers
Serve five or more hors d'oeuvres, with a minimum of two bites per person. Bring in seasonal, significant ingredients, maybe from your own cultural background or your favorite travels. You could use other formats like grazing tables, or sushi bars, or charcuterie setups to mix it up.
How to Plan a Cocktail Reception That Stands Out
Pick the Right Location
Pick a cozy space away from the main reception area, a terrace, garden or rooftop. Make sure it covers the elements and that it will comfortably fit your group.
Provide Seating
Seat approximately 30th of your guests. Add high-top tables, lounge seating and low tables for older participants.
Set the Mood with Music
Choose some soft background music such as acoustic duo, string quartet, or playlist. But if you insist on live entertainment, go short with the performances, so that they don’t disrupt conversations.
Decorate Key Areas
Adorn the bar, food stations or escort card displays with floral or unique touches. Serve appetizers in a cute manner to make them look more attractive.
Add an Interactive Element
Keep the mood festive by providing activities for guests, such as lawn games, a photo booth, or even a guest book signing.
Personalize the Details
Include some details of your own such as personalized napkins, themed drink stirrer sticks, or a monogrammed glass so that your event feels less generic.
Avoid Visible Trash Bins
Avoid the sight of trash cans by having your catering crew gathering used goods out of sight, so the space looks neat.
Using tactful planning, your cocktail hour can perfectly complement the vibe your wedding as a whole will give off and get your guests in the mood to party.
