Monday Coffee: How to be a Gracious Host

We've talked quite a bit about how to be a gracious guest and host, and these topics are incredibly popular. We have the job of advising our clients on what to do to make their wedding a true experience and, perhaps more importantly, what not to do.

Some clients insist on having a 2+ hour cocktail hour post-ceremony, during which their guests will be drinking, noshing on hors d' oeuvres, and visiting. Our friendly, expert advice: please do not extend cocktail hour much past it's given name - an hour.

During most cocktail time our clients use it as an escape either to relax or take more photos. Over the years we have seen too many guests drinking too much during this period, getting bored waiting for the bride and groom, and leaving shortly after dinner as the wedding is "taking too long." You certainly don't want the memory of your wedding to be that!
The biggest issue can be a lack of activities, but moreover, your guests want to visit with you. Why not keep cocktail hour a short and sweet time in between the ceremony and the reception, let guests eat and drink a bit, but make a point to show your guest an amazing time, visit, dance, and spend time with them doing more fun activities, all while avoiding a strange lag-time?
Cheers! Aleah + Nick
*Photo from Alex Studios