Ceremony and Reception at the same place with buffet style food

We were just at a wedding last month with this exact schedule, and it worked perfectly! The only difference is that they had a cocktail hour, but I don't think that makes much difference.

I was last weekend! The order was after the ceremony, we all went in, found our seats and started drinking for the cocktail hour while they took pics. The wedding party entered the reception (they had a sweetheart table). First dance, mother/son, bride/brother dances (please dont do too many). As they danced, the food was brought out. Then They had a server help the bride and groom make their plates first. Then then had the tables called (dj announced) by number to go to the line to prevent everyone just standing there. 1&2, then 3&4 and so on...

Your venue should help the order of events as well.

My wedding will be similar to this.

Ceremony @ 5pm or guests being seated

Ceremony starts no later than 5:15pm

End at 6pm

Cocktails 6:00-7:00pm

Dinner @ 7:00pm

Dances @8:00pm-10pm

We are having a Friday night wedding btw and doing a first look for picture time!

Oooh - I didnt think about having the tables called... All the buffet style weddings i have been to have been go serve yourself when ready... there was enough stations that it never felt too long.

Hmmm.... keept it coming ladies!

Thanks so far!

HEre at Rosy's Jazz Hall in New Orleans as well as at other local Venues , that is the typical style for Receptions. After Ceremony, guests go right into main room, bars and buffet opens while the famiily takes pictures. This way, the party starts right away. Once pictures are done, we go right into introductions and first dances. I also agree with the pp who suggested not too many first dances. We're also tray passing at that time so guests still have a bite to eat if they dont feel like going to the buffet right away.

I think it will work out just fine.

I had my ceremony and reception in the same room and everything flowed well.

5:00 pm Doors open

5:30 pm Ceremony

6:00 pm bar opened and appetizers served

6:30 pm toasts and prayer

6:45 pm Buffet opened

7:30 pm First Dance and party

My husband and I did all our pictures prior to the ceremony so we were able to enjoy all the parts of our reception. Good luck!

I am having my ceremony and reception in the same place and my uncles was the same deal. it flows just fine. lots of fun and no one has to drive! lol

I've been to many weddings like this - usually in a church, and everyone just goes out to the dining area to eat.

Thank you all so much!!

I am making my invitations and working on details card. How should I word it to include the proper info?

I have a ceremony, followed by cocktail hour, followed by buffet style dinner. I am having it at the Hilton hotel all in one place. I also need to know what I do about registry. Should I put any info about it on my details card? i also have a block of rooms reserved as well as a website.

I need help wording this on my card.