Contrary to popular belief, you aren't obligated to have the traditional reception complete with dance in order for your wedding reception to be a splendid one. A small cozy reception in your home might suit you better if you're getting remarried. Perhaps you feel like arranging an excellent rustic spread at a country inn or your dream is a reception at a private club, Martini-lounge style! Here are a few wedding reception ideas:

A wedding breakfast

A sit-down breakfast is one of a few interesting wedding reception ideas following a ceremony between the hours of 9 and 10. It's more elegant than a buffet-style brunch. The breakfast starts between 10 and 11. After 11:30, you could do a buffet- style affair. That frees up the early afternoon for the couple to get a start on their honeymoon!

The afternoon buffet or the wedding lunch

Fantastic wedding reception ideas can be very festive. The main advantage is that these wedding reception ideas can be both elegant and informal. The ceremony takes place around noon and is followed by the reception at 1. The menu is simple, informal and even on the light side, buffet style, or barbecue. People have fun all afternoon long.

The cocktail reception and the tea reception

Two wedding reception ideas that are often overlooked. Tea is served at 3pm in the afternoon or between 5:30 and 6pm. Summertime in a garden and in front of a fireplace in winter. The cocktail reception is held from 6 onwards. Where? In a museum, art gallery, reception home, penthouse, boat, etc.

These wedding reception planning ideas are the ideal choice to celebrate with family and friends outside of the traditional realm. It's just a matter of finding which one of these wedding reception ideas is right for you!

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Best Wedding Reception Tips

Do you want an inside look into what makes a great wedding reception? Find out how to have the party of a lifetime with these 17 tips from party guru Dan Nichols of Michigan's Boogie Brothers Productions.