Let’s break down the differences between the wedding ceremony and the wedding reception.
Whether you’re attending a wedding or starting your own wedding planning journey, it’s important to note that weddings have two distinct parts: the ceremony and the reception.
In this guide, we break down the key differences between the wedding ceremony and the wedding reception. Learn about guest counts for each part of the day, what celebrations happen at each event, and what venue differences may be expected. Keep reading for more!
What is a Wedding Ceremony?
The wedding ceremony is when the official vows and wedding take place. This is where the couple weds under their chosen alter, with family and friends as wedding guests, including their wedding party. The wedding ceremony is often very formal and is generally in a smaller venue or more sentimental location than the reception.
Many couples will have their wedding ceremony in a church, at a scenic overlook, or in a nostalgic location that symbolizes their love, commitment, and journey together. The guest list for the wedding ceremony can sometimes be smaller than the guest list for the reception, as the ceremony is more private and intimate than the reception.
Couples should consider what traditions they want to follow, what time of day they want to wed, what altar they would like, their wedding party, and who they want to officiate the marriage. Guests at a wedding ceremony will witness the vows between the couple, and their level of involvement will vary depending on the couple’s chosen traditions or religious inclusions.
What is a Wedding Reception?
A wedding reception is a celebration that includes dining, toasts, dancing, and more fun. It is a place where everyone gets to party and celebrate the new union between their friends and family.
The wedding reception can vary in formality based on the couple’s preferences, sometimes being very casual and other times very formal with black-tie requests. It will be in a larger venue than the ceremony, with room for activities, speeches, and everyone to mingle.
Wedding receptions can be hosted indoors or outdoors, sometimes in a venue shared with the ceremony site and sometimes somewhere offsite. Some traditional wedding reception venues include church recreation areas, parks, restaurants, ballrooms, or specific wedding venue locations.
Couples planning their wedding reception will want to consider where they want to hold it, what activities they are interested in, what vendors they need, and how long they want the celebration to last. Receptions often include dancing, speeches, and traditions like the garter toss. However, some couples may choose other activities, such as games, photo booths, and more.
Together, wedding ceremonies and receptions make for the full wedding day experience. Couples and guests alike can enjoy the exchange of vows, the merriment, the celebration, the community, and the love all around them.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email ([email protected]), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
