Can you tell how busy I am at work today?!?! Okay - question on behalf of my sister. They are trying to keep costs down and are considering a cocktail party with a dj and a cake - but no sit down dinner. Anybody ever seen anything like that? Or been to anything like that? Does it work out? Or is it a total flop.....
I'm going to a wedding later in the year that is a buffet...
I always think the food at the cocktail hour is enough for me at least anyway.
My FH's boss is getting married next month. It's a black tie affair, but they didn't want a 'typical' wedding, so they are having a 5 hour cocktail party.
I think it'll be fun! I always think that the food at the cocktail hour is the best food of the day!
I'll let you know how it is. I think it's a cool idea - and should be lots of fun! :-)
I've been to one as well. You just need to be careful because sometimes it can cost you more money. But make sure the food is replenished until cake is served. Sometimes it costs more because you need more people manning the food tables and such. You could also cut it down to four hours since you don't need the hour 'Cocktail Hour' anyway. I think these types of affairs are great for mingling -- gets people up and walking and talking to other guests.
thanks so much for the feedback! Stef - did the couple have music? was there dancing?
Yes, there was a DJ with music and dancing -- the traditional dances, bouquet toss, etc. It was pretty traditional in all other aspects.
we thought about doing this but ran into a bunch of problems...
-often it ends up costing more
-a lot of places won't do it, or can't fit it
-it was perceived by our older guests as being cheap
-people need a place to 'park' - having a designated seat gives them a place to put their stuff
-you need twice as much seating, since there is no designated seat (tables won't necessarily be full and while people will be mingling, there may be a time when everyone will be seated)
In the end, we gave up on the idea. I think it makes for a great party, but there the place we feel in love with didn't do it.
good luck.
i've been to two or three and they were nice, and not a flop at all, we ate a little of what was being passed around, had some drinks, danced, and then did it all again
