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This is actually a new trend in weddings. More couples are choosing to have a fun, relaxed cocktail reception as opposed to a formal seated dinner. One of my favorite choices is to serve your favorite foods but in a mini size! For example, mini burgers and fries or mac and cheese in small cups! Another favorite is a twist on shrimp cocktail. Place one or two shrimp in a shot glass with the cocktail sauce at the bottom.

Typically your ceremony only last about 30 minutes. A reception outline could be organized something like this:

Cocktail Hour
Introduction of Bride and Groom
First Dance
Father Daughter Dance
Prayer or Welcome
Dinner
Toast
Cake Cutting
General Dancing
Bouqet / Garter Toss
Grand Exit

Goodluck with Planning!!

I would highly recommend the following company to help you with this -- they are fantastic and will save you at least 65% over traditional caterers...hope this helps!

Desserts just a whole bunch of pies and candies. Its cost effective and lovely

I know that when I got married, that I didn't want a sit down dinner. So, I decided to have a cocktail party instead!. I had appetizers (such as potatoes with caviar, stuffed mushrooms, lamb chops, quiches, etc.) passed around by servers, and a help yourself dessert table with several cheesecakes, petite fours, candied nuts, surrounding a small wedding cake. I also had a punch bowl on a table where people could help themselves to the non-alcoholic punch. The celebration was elegant and fun!

For the timeline... directly following the ceremony, we went straight into the first dance (which was the cue for the servers to begin with the drinks), then the dances with the parents. While we danced, the servers continued to bring around champagne and wine for the guests, along with the appetizers. The D.J./M.C. kept the party rolling.

You reception sounds wonderful and elegant. For appetizer ideas, you may want to go to some favorite restaurants and sample a few.