The Wedding "Cocktail" Hour

There are many terms related to weddings that people who are not wrapped up in planning a wedding may not be familiar with. If you're newly engaged and are afraid to ask what certain things mean at the risk of sounding foolish, don't worry.

After the wedding ceremony is often the cocktail hour. The cocktail hour traditionally occurs between the ceremony and reception. It allows the bride and groom to get some photo time in while allowing the guests to mingle and catch up with friends and family they may not have seen in a while.

For the cocktail hour, beverages and hors d'oeuvres are served. The drinks can be alcoholic or non, and can be served from a host bar, or simply include two or three cocktail choices that are butler passed (champagne, a signature cocktail, etc). Hor d'oeuvres can be served at mini food stations or also butler passed.

Seating at a cocktail is a little less formal than the dinner portion of your reception. It can include a mix of bistro tables that people can stand at, a few tables with seats for some of your older guests, and even some stylish lounge areas created out of banquettes and other furniture either rented or provided by the venue.

The music can be as subtle and elegant as a string quartet or it can set the tone for a crazy fun party with music provided by a club deejay.

The cocktail hour is a fun portion of the wedding, and it can and should be completely flexible. Don't be afraid to make yours work to fit your vision!

Unsure how much of each beverage to purchase for your guest list? Use this handy calculator to help you assess your needs. http://www.thatsthespirit.com/en/drinks/party_calculator.asp