Anyone doing an early afternoon ceremony and reception?

We are planning on doing something similar and plan to have a full meal.

I figure, most people expect a meal at a wedding so they will probably come hungry.

And even if not, it can't hurt to have extra food, right?

I'll never turn down a full meal. I'm sure your guests wouldn't either.

Me and my FH are planning on doing our wedding at 1:30 pm. Instead of serving a meal, we're doing a dessert reception. We decided on doing this actually to save us money. And so far it's working

We are starting our ceremony at 1pm as well. We are doing a full meal after, but my friend got married last year and they did appetizers only. It was fantastic and truly it fit their personalities. It all depends on the couple. What you like and want.

We're planning for even earlier - ceremony starting around 11:30, followed by cocktail hour, and then seated lunch and dancing. All will be done by 4:30. Everyone's wedding is different!

We are doing the ceremony early as well, starting at 12, then lunch at a nice restaurant down the road with our family at 1 then it's over. That way no one is to tired and cranky, plus most of the family is leaving for Disney the following day.

We'll be doing a 9:30 am ceremony in a church followed by a cocktail hour and lunch. We'll be done by 3:30 pm.

My parents did this and did a cake and punch reception, but if you want to add more substance them appetizers would be good. I think you could do a full meal if you wish though. I would maybe just put in the invitation that there will be a meal or at least speed the word so people don't come having just ate a huge lunch.

1pm is lunch time for me, I vote full meal

Full meal.

With the amount of guests you're hosting, the absence of a cocktail hour, and the time of day you're starting the reception, I would absolutely expect a full meal. I think that's the way to go.

For anyone doing a dessert only reception at 1:30, make sure your invitations advise your guests that you reception will be a dessert reception (and if you are hosting a bar, be sure to add that, as well. Many guests will assume that a dessert reception doesn't include a bar of any kind. If you're hosting a bar, add "Cocktails and Dessert Reception to Follow).

View Quoted Comment Hi Shani,
What did you do after everything was done? My wedding and reception will be over by 5pm and I’m wondering what others do to keep the fun going.