Your wedding day is filled with so many big moments and big emotions. Make time to enjoy one of the most fun parts of the day – the first moments when you, your new spouse and all your favorite people can let loose after a sparkling ceremony – with cocktail hour!
Meadow Brook’s wedding team has pulled together great ideas to help engaged couples make the most of cocktail hour!
Join in the Fun!
Many newlyweds are shifting their photography timeline to make sure they are able to join their guests at cocktail hour.
They are embracing this first space of time in between the key wedding events where there is no specific tradition to uphold. It’s simply a time to enjoy themselves and their company – with warm hugs and bright smiles.
Often this means doing a first look or keeping family portraits more casual near the cocktail hour location. Making some of these minor adjustments gives couples the chance to greet their guests, have a toast with their college friends and just take a moment for themselves amid the bustle of their wedding day.
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
By the time cocktail hour has arrived, the couple has been wed and the happy tears have been shed.
It has already been a long day of excitement for the wedding party and for many of the guests who have traveled and planned their outfits, gifts and schedule. All this to say – they are ready for refreshments!
There are so many choices when selecting your cocktail hour menu. From a beautiful appetizer display ready for guests to nibble to the elegance of butler-passed hors-d’œuvres, your guests will love sampling delicious fare.
It’s an opportunity to show off your taste with gorgeous cheese displays, bruschetta, buffalo chicken spring rolls, sushi, salmon crostini, fresh fruit and so much more.
The world – and cocktail hour – is your oyster!
An Engaging Opportunity
One often overlooked element of cocktail hour is the opportunity to engage your guests and spark fun conversations. Consider adding a special or active element to this time that will get people chatting.
Your wedding guest list is composed of special people throughout your life and your spouse’s life. Many people will be meeting for the first time and giving guests something to talk about will ensure a fantastic and memorable party later.
Whether set outside on the gorgeous loggia patio or inside the Great Hall, cocktail hour at Meadow Brook invites guests to explore the historic mansion and estate at their own pace. There is so much for guests to discover when they are surrounded by beautiful, unique and historic architecture and artifacts.
It’s the perfect time to inspire your guests’ conversation and whet their appetite for the rest of your wedding festivities.
Meadow Brook Hall hosts monthly free wedding open houses that give couples a chance to explore the estate and meet with our event specialists who can help you navigate the path to your dream wedding.
For more information about weddings at Meadow Brook Hall, contact mbhevent@oakland.edu or call (248) 364-6220.
