You’ve begun planning your wedding and it’s time to decide whether to opt for a cocktail or sit down reception. A cocktail reception leans toward a more casual, relaxed atmosphere, while sit-down serves as a more classic and formal choice.
Both options can be the right pick. Use our list of pro’s below to help you decide what would suit your day best.
Cocktail Style
No need for a seating plan.
This could remove some stress from your lead up if a seating plan sounds like a logistical nightmare to you. There is no pressure on you to keep fussy guests happy with where they are or aren’t sitting.
Can save you money.
You can essentially remove the need for any tableware with a cocktail reception. Plus other major pieces of furniture. But do keep in mind, it is recommended to still have seating for around 70% of guests, whether that is through bars, lounges or limited tables and chairs. Catering costs may also work in your budget’s favour, with less wait staff usually required for cocktail style.
Easier for guests to mingle.
With no set seating, your guests are able to blend and mingle from the get go. The energy can feel more relaxed and low-key in the best kind of way.
Variety of food options.
Depending what you choose, you may actually be able to serve a broader range of food options. Not only this, but you can use this opportunity to do something fun and different. Whether it be noodle boxes, food trucks, wood fire pizzas, you can put a real spin on the traditional wedding dinner service.
Sit-Down
Suits a traditional wedding.
If you are wanting to stick with a classic wedding format, a sit-down dinner is the way to go. It creates a more formal environment for you and your guests.
More opportunity for styling elements.
With a full layout of tables to style, this gives you the chance to create something unique and personal and a beautiful feature to photograph. This may be an element you couldn’t imagine missing on your big day.
More luxe meals.
A formal dinner service can mean more hearty, high-end dishes. Whether an alternate drop or shared family style, these types of menus are usually more intentional and cohesive than what you would see at a cocktail reception.
Creates more structure.
Guests are seated at a specific time, meals are served in a neat order and service runs smoothly alongside speeches and other key moments. There is no need to herd guests back to make sure they aren’t missing anything important.
Guests have their own space.
With an assigned spot for each person, this gives them the relief of always having a seat, somewhere to leave their bags or coats and sit a drink knowing it will be there on their return. It also makes it easier to gift any wedding favours to your guests.
Whether you decide on cocktail or sit-down for your reception, as long as you plan well, there is no wrong choice. Enjoy the masterpiece you put together.
Xx
Cover photo credit @black&cophoto
