There are a lot of different ways to fill the gap between the end of the wedding ceremony and the start of dinner. A cocktail hour (or “mocktail hour” if you prefer) with a full selection of passed hors d’oeuvres and stations is one end of the spectrum, while some couples opt to have a very limited display of light refreshments or even none at all. Here is a look at all of the options for the wedding cocktail hour and appetizers to help you decide which version is most appropriate for your wedding.

Why is is traditional to have a cocktail hour and appetizers between the ceremony and wedding dinner? Because a good host provides their guests with refreshments if they will be waiting for any length of time. Many couples use that time period to have photographs taken, and to leave your guests standing around with nothing to do for an hour while waiting for the bride and groom to show up to the reception is inconsiderate. The only time a couple can realistically consider forgoing any type of appetizers or cocktail hour after the ceremony is if there will be little to no gap between the end of the service and the start of the reception. If the gap is likely to hit thirty minutes or longer, the hosts need to add a cocktail hour.

If you are hosting a formal wedding, wearing a designer gown and fabulous crystal necklace, you should have an equally impressive cocktail hour. This is the time to have the seafood bar, stations with made-to-order delicacies, elegant passed hors d’oeuvres, and displays of cheese, vegetables, and the like. For the most fancy cocktail hours, you may also wish to consider specialty drinks. A signature drink, a Champagne fountain, or a vodka luge would all be great options. Feel free to create an impressive design scheme too, including an ice sculpture, crystal chandeliers (to complement the bride’s crystal necklace, of course!), and live musicians.

For a wedding which is more of a semi-formal event, a great cocktail hour is still expected. Omit the made-to-order stations and vodka luge, but still offer guests a wide variety of passed and displayed appetizers to enjoy. Match the selection of hors d’oeuvres to the general style of your wedding, but don’t be afraid to add some comfort foods and regional favorites to the menu along with the more traditional canapes. A signature drink might still be fun, and it can actually help you control the alcohol costs if you serve a couple of special cocktails along with beer and wine instead of a full open bar.

When the wedding is fairly informal, the cocktail hour can also be a bit less lavish. However, it is still the role of any good host to make sure that no one goes hungry at their party. This goes double if you are serving alcohol because people are more likely to become intoxicated if they have no food to go along with the drinks. Classic appetizers like cheese and crackers, fresh fruit, veggies and dips are a good place to start. The diy bride can also find reasonably priced appetizers such as cocktail meatballs at places like Costco to fill out the selection with a few heartier bites. Your guests will definitely appreciate the effort you put into making sure they enjoy your wedding.

Author Bio: Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, society, and etiquette. A fabulous crystal necklace from http://silverlandjewelry.com/ is perfect for your wedding or other special occasion. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping.

Category: Marriage
Keywords: crystal necklace, wedding cocktail hour, wedding receptions, wedding appetizers, wedding food