Huge gap between ceremony and reception--what to do?

[jennaba3]

I agree with the above.. I wouldnt worry too much as they will always find something to do.. Ive arranged a cocktail party for the gap between our ceremony and reception.. Also I didnt want everyone standing round while we're having our pictures done so at least they can go and enjoy the snacks and drinks xxx

[Sue46]

I have to disagree here. I'm older so maybe it's just the age gap. I was invited to a wedding at 1:00 with the reception starting at 5:30. The bridal party didn't tell any of us guests what we should do between 2:00 - 5:30. There I was all dressed up in a December snow. I couldn't drive the hour home and back again before 5:30. The only thing I could do was maybe go to a movie or walk around the mall in my formal ware and high heels (didn't sound appealing). If I went out to eat and drink with others than I wouldn't be hungry at 5:30 for the drinks and food at the reception. I thought it was extremely careless of the couple to say "See you later!" and leave all of us older folks standing outside of the church in the snow. A lot of us just went home and missed the reception. If your guests aren't staying at a hotel in town, or don't have friends in town to "visit" for 3 hours, then what are you expecting them to do? Would you treat your house guests like this??

[alyssaw]

I was just in a wedding in which the ceremony started at noon and the dinner didn't start until 5.  All of the guests went back to their rooms, had something to eat and drink, and relaxed until it was time for dinner. The bridal party were all treated to a catered lunch and we freshened up on our makeup before we started taking pictures. I think the guests will enjoy the free time and your bridal party will enjoy the time together as well:)