Weddings are usually an expensive affair. However the huge expenses involved in wedding preparations and organization can be overcome by holding a cocktail wedding reception. Cocktail wedding is not a new concept; the idea has been around for years and is now rapidly attracting couples who prefer a simple and graceful occasion to costly wedding affairs.      

Cocktail wedding party can be as simple or as indulgent as the couple desires. Besides being an elegant choice, cocktail wedding parties save immense time and energy and reduces strain that comes with planning and organizing a traditional wedding.

The duration of cocktail weddings is from three to five hours and usually takes place on a Friday evening. This saves ample time and allows the newly wed to have a great weekend after their wedding. The guests and the entire bridal party also find it convenient to attend the wedding.    

Most of the brides pick a stunning cocktail gown for their cocktail wedding reception. This saves the bride from the inconvenience of going from one store to another in search of a beautiful wedding gown and then later get it altered to have a perfectly fitting gown. Moreover this also minimizes the wedding expenses involved in making alterations.  

Since the cocktail reception is held during a week day you can save money on wedding decoration and food. Tasty hors d’ouerves, specialty food stations, signature cocktails, and a small themed band are perfect for the occasion. You may probably have a greater choice for  deciding the venue of your cocktail party with less expense involved compared to what a weekend wedding would require. The various place choices include classy restaurants, country clubs, art galleries, river boat ferry, open terraces and formal garden porch.

Contrary to  a large gathering for a traditional church ceremony before the reception party , a short service takes place before the cocktail reception where the bride and groom take self written wedding vows in front of close family members and friends making the occasion a more personal affair.  

Preferrence for the type of  Cocktail Reception :

The couple can choose their own personal style cocktail party. There are no rules for a cocktail wedding party. Here are a few ideas to choose the kind of cocktail wedding you desire:

Themed Cocktail Reception – It is a wedding reception whereby a theme is selected for the party and music ,food and decorations to cmplement the theme.   Create a signature cocktail (or rename an existing one) to highlight the theme of your reception.

Wine and Cheese – Wine and Cheese is a also a great way to celebrate your wedding. Include cheeses, crackers, and cheesy appetizers with some fruits for the party. Select red and white wines as the drink.