Anyone been to a church reception? What did you do??

Question

Hi! Me & my fiance are having a short notice wedding. He's leaving for basic in three months and we want to get the ceremony over with before he goes. We are wanting it to be inexpensive and we want to be married by our preacher so we are having the ceremony at the church. to use the foyer of the FLC in the church it would be an extra $100 so we are wanting to hold our reception there also. We'll only have about 25-30 people attend.

We can't serve alcohol and it says "dancing can not be a part of the wedding festivities" so what would you do at this reception?

I hate attention so the "no dancing" rule is definately not breaking my heart, i actually like it. The thought of the first dance makes me cringe...

Answer 1

This is what we did.  While we finished up post-ceremony pictures our guests had some heavy appetizers and we had a slideshow running of pictures of the two of us.  Our ceremony piano player hung around and played "mood" music during the reception.  Once we got there, we did the toasts, cut the cakes and just mingled with our guests.  It was really nice.

Answer 2

We had a simple afternoon wedding with a dessert reception at the church. It wasn't long, which suited me fine. We cut the cake, had some punch, opened a few gifts, greeted everyone, and then headed out. Our wedding was much more about the start of our marriage than about the festivities. I have been to several church receptions, and always enjoyed them. They are certainly more affordable.

Answer 3

I've been to several such weddings.  Mostly what people do is take lots of pictures and eat a lot of food. Be prepared to talk your head off. If you want to have alcohol, you can always invite a few guests over to your house after the reception for drinks. Other than that all you have to do is relax and enjoy the moment, as if that were possible.

Answer 4

I went to one last March and it was very  nice! After the ceremony, we went downstairs and ate. It was simple and quaint. The church's sound system played jazz and gospel music on low while we ate and conversated.  The bride and groom also bought bottles of Apple Cider and used that to toast with.  A good time was had by all in attendance!!!

Answer 5

You have cake, punch and maybe nuts and mints. Take pictures and receive congrats from everyone. It doesn't have to be very long. Don't forget to get your preacher to sign your license.: )

Answer 6

At one time, the gifts were opened during the reception.  You might want to consider this so as your lady guests can 'oooh' &'ahhh' at all the wonderful things you have to start your new life.  Save what's in the enveloped to privately open.  

Other than that, you have a bite to eat, cut the cake, talk til you lose your voice.  Your guests are there to support your decision & give you 'best wishes' not to be entertained.  At least that's what it's suppose to be.  

Answer 7

My husband and I had a church reception when we married -- as a matter of fact it is quite common where we live.

Most of the guests mingle and talk.  We had several family members taking pictures of the guests while they were visiting.  The Bride and Groom can mingle, greet their guests and visit.  Then, everyone gathers round while you cut the cake.

These types of receptions usually only last about an hour -- perfect if you ask me -- and clean up is also fast and easy.

Congratulations and best wishes.