Traditionally, cocktail hour is the limbo time in which the bridal party is out taking pictures, while the guests mill around making small talk, awaiting the bride and groom’s return so they can finally sit down and eat (hey, we’ve all been here right??!!)

Want to avoid your guests feeling this way? I don’t blame you!

Here are 3 reasons why you should not skip your own cocktail hour!

1. Thank Your Guests

This one goes without saying right?? But the best part about milling around cocktail hour, getting to greet and say thank you, is that it is more natural and sincere. Most couples used to go around table to table while the guests ate dinner thanking everyone and it was more cookie cutter. This way, you actually get to visit with your guests and have a good time, while knocking the “thank you’s” off your plate (and best of all, you don’t have to delay dancing or people eating by doing this later!)

2.You Actually Get to Eat!

One of the biggest complaints that my brides voice to me after the wedding, is that they spent thousands of dollars on food that they never got to eat! Traditionally, the catering bill is your biggest expense at a wedding and half the time, you never get appetizers and almost never get to finish your own plate of food. And after a day of celebrating and drinking, it’s best t get a little food in the stomach before the next round of drinks. Make your bill justifiable by taking time to actually enjoy the food you purchased.

3. Formal Pictures Are Done

If you curate the timeline to include your presence at your cocktail hour, this means that you have already completed all of your family formals, wedding party pictures, and bride and groom images…which is great! Usually by the time you hit your reception, you just want to have some fun!!! The best way to achieve this fluid form of events is doing a First Look, planning for family and bridal party portraits before the ceremony, and then everyone going straight to cocktail hour. This is such a great use of your time and you will be overjoyed and free to enjoy your entire reception.

Don’t yet have a wedding photographer for your wedding? No problem! Contact me today for a FREE quote on wedding photography packages and prices! We offer varying prices and packages, as well as custom designed photography packages to fit your budget!

See what other brides just like you are saying!

“There is a reason why Lux Light Photography is ranked as one of the best in Northern Michigan! What an incredibly personal, fun, laid back and professional experience they provide! The photographers were easy to work with and Melissa makes the whole process very easy. If you are wavering back and forth between another norther Michigan photographer, take a look at Lux Light’s portfolio and your decision will be made for you! They know exactly how to capture the natural beauty of what northern Michigan has to offer and the photos truly speak for themselves! Absolutely stunning!”

Traverse City Wedding photography by Lux Light Photography, captures beautiful and intimate portraits for your wedding, engagement, family, newborn, and boudoir photography session in all of northern Michigan, including Traverse City, Petoskey, Inn at Bay Harbor, Crystal Mountain, Homestead Resort, Bowers Harbor, Mission Table, Glen Arbor, and Charlevoix!

Contact us today for your FREE Quote!
Lux Light Photography
13300 S W Bay Shore Drive
Traverse City Michigan 49684
melissa@luxlightphotography.net
231-633-9410