by: IDEALLY you want your reception to follow your ceremony just as soon as possible. It makes perfect sense. But, as we have all experienced... ideally doesn't always play nice with reality! So, if for whatever reason, you're faced with a time gap between your ceremony and reception, you need to have something for your guests to do. They will most definitely appreciate your consideration!!
If Yours is a Destination Wedding...
My guess is that most traveling guests will love the break in between and find the time gap as a wonderful opportunity to catch a snooze at the hotel... freshen up... change clothes... check out the local shopping ... take in a massage, etc.
If Yours is Not a Destination Wedding {& even if it is}...
Make sure your guests are aware of the time frames! They are coming to celebrate your wedding and hopefully won't look at the gap as an inconvenience~ especially if you've put the time and effort into finding fun and creative things for them to do in the meantime! Use positive language on your Enclosure Cards to get them excited about the activities and leave room for your guests to respond on the RSVP cards. This way, you will have an idea of what your guests want to do with this free time.
Base your activity ideas on the style and formality of your wedding...
- Host a pre-reception reception: at the venue, at someone's home... at the hotel... at a local establishment... in the park... Arrange for hors d' oeuvres and light refreshments to carry them through to the reception.
- Local Attractions: Do your homework and find out what's happening in your town or city. Perhaps there's a "play in the park" a "tour of the winery" a new "exhibit at the museum" a " fun cruise down the river" or... Round up coupons and use your negotiating skills to see if you can get reduced fees in light of your wedding.
- Chauffeurs: Ask your ushers, siblings, cousins to act as drivers for those that need or want rides
- Include an itinerary of the activities, costs and their times in your Programs.
Do you have a time gap? What are you doing in between?
