Cocktail Reception Etiquette

I don't think people would be upset. If you want to throw her a shower and bachelorette party go for it.

As long as they are heavy appetizers and an open bar people should be fine.

Its fine as long as it isn't at a meal time

A wedding is still a wedding, whether it's a cake and punch reception, full evening meal, or a cocktail reception. If you want to host a shower for her, I don't see a reason why you shouldn't.

It sounds like she's got her ideas lining up: a non-meal time, letting guests know ahead of time what kind of reception it will be, providing adequate (and yummy!) food and drinks.

I think a cocktail reception with hors d'ouvres is perfect. I personally can fill up on appetizers. Good food, drinks and music is all most folks need. Just because her reception isn't serving a full meal doesn't mean she should not enjoy the traditional elements leading up to up.

Thanks all! We just wanted to make sure that nobody would be offended by these events without a meal time wedding. At the end of the day, she's marrying a great guy and I want her to have the full experience!

I think it's more than fine! If they don't like it, they don't have to go... but I doubt most people would have an issue with it

I think it's fine. Our cocktail hours here make dinner almost irrelevant. If hers is heavy enough, it can be at meal time. If it's four passed hors d'ouvres and some carrot sticks, it's not going to work except in the middle of the afternoon.

And yes, she can register and have a shower.