Freshen Up: A Refreshing New Concept For Customizing Your Ceremony

by Mia Bolaris-Forget (Staff Writer)

Everyone “knows” that guests eagerly look forward to the cocktail hour. In fact, it’s likely the smorgasbord of food is likely their favorite part of the reception, and probably the impetus behind the “trend” of buffet-style weddings. Add the cocktails and the social interaction, and you’ve got a party waiting to happen.

Yet, the same can’t be said about the ceremony. Whether you having it at a place of worship or on site, guests usually arrive ahead of time and (impatiently) “sit” or fuss and wait for the big moment and the beautiful bride to arrive.

Experts suggest encouraging a little more mixing and mingling by making their wait a bit more refreshing, and, actually serving refreshments. Think non-alcoholic aperitifs such as ice tea, lemonade or iced coffee in the warmer months or hot cocoa, coffee, tea or spiced cider in the cooler ones. And, for effervescent brides and grooms who want something a bit more “bubbly”, champagne is a classy, classic, especially if you serve it with a piece of fruit.