Having a ceremony now- reception later. Do we still pay for people on ceremony day?

I would still pay for their food the day of the ceremony.

That’s a good question. I would think so!

Yes, you still need to host something for the people attending your ceremony. That means you pay.

I wouldn't ask them to pay for their own food. It was a decision you made to postpone the reception to later on and have a smaller ceremony followed by dinner so I would pay for the dinner.

I actually decided to do the same thing. We are having a private dinner for the small amount of guests who do come next week, but still having the large reception next year. So I went back and forth trying to figure out the proper thing to do. My mom said she thinks we should pay for the dinner but knows that its another extra expense for us. So since I am very close with most of the people who are coming I asked just a couple of them what they thought about just going out to eat, and if it were a issue saying it was a "No Host" dinner. Most of my friends (4) that are coming, "yeah no biggie at all, we are coming to Florida anyways regardless we would need to eat". So it did not seem too big of a deal when I asked. I told my mom what everyone said when I asked and she was surprised. My parents decided that since we are still paying for the reception next year that they would just go ahead and offer to pay for the dinner and pay for the guests like would like to join. So over all I think it is up to you and how you think your guest would react or feel about a "No Host' dinner! Hope this helps! Everyone is dealing with a crazy situation when it comes to COVID-19 and re-planning special events, so I don't think very many people are being offended by different situations and options brides are dealing with! Good luck!

Exactly. I know this is tricky, but most people understand. I would just talk to them, get feedback and then make a decision. I know this is not something you planned either and would have preferred a ceremony and reception on the same day, but as we all know this whole year has been unexpected and still continues to be! Good luck and I know it will all work out in the end! I hope you have a very special day!

Yes, I know that. However, I think it would rude to host an event and expect your guests to pay for their meal.

Of course!

Yeah I also like your suggestion! We are having a nice wedding cake still and having a nice champagne toast for everyone. I just think more people are understanding right now and won't be offended by the "No Host" dinner!!

If you want your wedding to feel celebratory, I would definitely host your loved ones with a meal after the ceremony. It doesn't have to be fancy and it could even be lunch instead of dinner. But sharing food and drink together, with no one having to worry about opening their wallets, will really make it a nice occasion.