Open House Celebrations
Sometimes a wedding reception just isn’t possible the same day as the ceremony. Couples that spontaneously elope or choose an exotic locale for their vows still may want to share their joy with friends and family who just couldn’t witness the ceremony in person.
Oftentimes, a bride and groom come from places thousands of miles apart and choose to marry in a far-flung location leaving many guests unable to attend the festivities. An open-house reception days, weeks, or maybe even months after the ceremony is a great way to celebrate with those unable to be present on your actual wedding day.
The open house can be hosted by parents, relatives, or close friends, and is usually held in their home or an intimate facility like a country club where they are members. Invitations should be sent four weeks before the open-house with wording that makes it clear that it is an “after” celebration and not an actual wedding.
The atmosphere of this celebration is usually elegantly understated. As an open house, the food should be appropriate to the time of day the reception is being held. It is usually not a formal plated meal, rather food is available throughout the celebration, such as stations, a buffet, or heavy hors d’oeuvres that are passed. There may or may not be a wedding cake—the choice is truly yours. If there is a cake, a cake-cutting ceremony with a champagne toast is the perfect way to officially share your commitment with your guests.
Decorations may include some floral arrangements, much as you would for a dinner party or special occasion, as well as framed ceremony pictures of the bride and groom. Gifts are often given, though the process is more casual, and a table should be set aside for this purpose. As with a wedding reception, these should be opened after the celebration, not during, as they would during a shower. Set up your guest book, either with the gift table, or on a table near the entrance of the home. If it is already available, display your wedding photo album or have your wedding video playing where guests can view it at their leisure.