Bride Doesn’t Wants Alcohol or Dances at Reception

Dear Polite One,

I've always dreamt that my wedding reception would be alcohol and dance-free - except for the first dance of the bride and groom. When running the idea past a few people they seemed shocked that I've taken out both of these elements and are making me doubt my idea.

The wedding will be in the evening, and then dinner.

Is there a steadfast rule that there must be alcohol and dance at a wedding? Isn't a nice dinner enough? And what things could be added to make it fun for the guests?

Thank you,

Visitor from Yorkton Saskatchewan

Dear Yorkton Saskatchewan,

People typically expect alcohol with their dinner at evening wedding receptions. So, it would probably be better if this were held earlier in the day. Dancing isn’t that important. However, it is better to skip all dances, rather than just the one dance with you. That may seem awkward.

The only hard and fast rule is that we, as hosts, offer our guests what is typically expected at the time of day of the event we are hosting. So, if your reception was held at 10 am, most guests would expect cake and punch. It really is easy to plan when we know guests’ expectations.

Enjoy your event!

The Polite One

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