A cocktail-style wedding reception offers a lively, flexible, and social atmosphere perfect for couples wanting something more modern than a traditional sit-down dinner. With an emphasis on mingling, creative appetizers, and signature drinks, this style works beautifully in both casual and upscale settings, especially at wedding venues in St. Louis that offer adaptable layouts and stylish atmospheres. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, a cocktail-style wedding reception gives you the freedom to create a fun, memorable experience your guests will love.
For a casual approach, think cocktail tables scattered throughout the venue and an open bar with light snacks like finger foods that guests will love. Options like chips and salsa, a veggie tray, cheese and crackers, and maybe a buffalo chicken dip create a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can dress casually or semi-formal, wearing stylish jeans or shorts, for a more relaxed setting.
What is a “Cocktail Style” Reception?
On a higher scale, a cocktail-style reception can feature a formal setting with beautifully dressed tables, centerpieces matching your event’s colors, and a curated cocktail reception menu. Rent a hall, add cocktail tables for mingling, and provide seating for guests who prefer to sit.
Offer a variety of appetizers that can be served buffet-style or passed around by staff. For example:
- Hot appetizers: Toasted ravioli, meatballs, chicken wings.
- Cold appetizers: Cheese and crackers, a cheeseball, or smoked salmon on crostini.
- Beverage options: An open bar with wine, beer, and rail liquor for mixed drinks.
These options ensure your guests will love every moment of the event.
Elegant Cocktail Style Wedding Reception
If your style is more elegant, a cocktail reception can feel just as refined as a formal dinner. Think:
- Beautifully decorated tables
- Floral centerpieces
- Dimmed lighting and soft ambience
- A curated appetizer menu served buffet-style or passed by staff
Perfect upscale appetizer ideas include:
- Toasted ravioli
- Chicken wings or meatballs
- Smoked salmon crostini
- Cheese and cracker displays
- Hummus and pita
- Shrimp cocktail
Pair these with an open bar serving wine, beer, and signature mixed drinks to complete the experience.
Elegant Wedding Reception Atmosphere
For couples envisioning a luxurious celebration, an elegant cocktail-style wedding can be absolutely stunning. Imagine:
- A beautifully decorated room with cocktail tables and cozy lounge seating
- Lavish floral arrangements and glamorous centerpieces
- Guests dressed in tuxedos, gowns, and elegant eveningwear
- A string quartet or jazz band playing in the background
- Passed hors d’oeuvres and curated small bites delivered by attentive staff
With the right St. Louis wedding venue, these receptions feel romantic, elevated, and memorable, without the structure of a full dinner service.
Invitations
As far as invitations go, make sure you are informing your guest list that there will not be a big buffet dinner or a long sit-down dinner. Instead, let them know that several appetizers will be available, perfect for a cocktail-style wedding reception. Andre’s partners with Carlson Craft for invitations for your wedding.
Make it Your Own
There are many other ways you could make a cocktail-style reception truly your own. Just like a traditional wedding reception, you would also have your wedding cake or some kind of sweets for your guest to choose from. If you choose to not have a big, three-tier wedding cake, then cupcakes, some kind of delicious mini crème Brulés, or parfaits are great alternatives. Go into your toast following the maid of honor and best man speech with everyone enjoying a sip of a signature drink named after the bride and groom. Play music in the background while guests mingle and indulge in conversation or have a DJ bring the house down with an amazing playlist and dance the night away.
Your cocktail-style reception may only last two to three hours, however, that is plenty of time for all of your guests to come and enjoy a nice snack and congratulate the happy couple without having to feel like they have to stay for a long sit-down dinner. This format allows everyone to feel comfortable and enjoy the festivities without any pressure to stay for an extended meal.
Traditional Wedding Reception Events
After everyone has had a few appetizers and a few classic cocktails it is time to continue with some traditional reception events.
- Bride and Groom first dance
- Father/daughter dance
- Mother/groom dance
- Cutting the cake
- Shoe game or dollar dance
- Garter toss and bouquet toss
Finish by dancing and partying the night away with all the family and friends that you love. At the end of the party, if you have rented tuxes with Andre’s Banquet & Catering, you can just change your clothes and leave them and we will take care of them for you. Have family members help load up any decorations, cards, and wedding gifts.
Plan Your Cocktail Style Wedding Reception With Andre’s Banquet & Catering | St. Louis, MO
At Andre’s Banquet & Catering, we specialize in creating exceptional cocktail reception menus that guests will love. Our full-service catering packages include everything you need, from delicious appetizers and a 4-hour open bar, china dinnerware, linen tablecloths, chair covers, the personnel, as well as an on-site coordinator. We are a one-stop shop facility that can offer guidance in planning and organizing your big day. Andre’s Banquet & Catering coordinates with several different vendors to make your planning process painless!
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create a cocktail-style reception that fits your needs and exceeds your expectations.