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Cocktail Party vs Sit-down DinnerBy Jennifer Cox Should we host a simple cocktail party or an inevitably more complicated sit-down dinner? I battled with this decision when planning my own wedding. They each have their pros and cons, and I love the feeling that each type of event creates. A cocktail party is more relaxed, the food is less costly (which means more wiggle room to splurge on certain items), and the laid-back atmosphere really reflects who we are as a couple. And yet a sit-down dinner is more formal and traditional, something we also considered ourselves to be. So, which is best? Cocktail party receptions are ...
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My Best Friend’s Wedding: Should She Do a Sit-Down Dinner or Stations?
As a wedding guest, which do you prefer, ladies?...
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rehearsal dinner; think casualThis week we will be discussing the wedding rehearsal dinner! This is an event where families and friends can come together after the wedding rehearsal to eat and drink as a pre-celebration of the couple’s nuptials. This entire week we will explore traditions, new ideas and what you need to know when planning a fabulous rehearsal dinner. modern twist? Wedding rehearsal dinners have traditionally been formal events. Sit down dinner, full bar, well-orchestrated toasts, etc. Now couples are looking for something different. Something exciting and shaking up the norm! a more casual event… Not ...
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Planning the Rehearsal DinnerThere are no real rules when it comes to the rehearsal dinner. It can be just you two or extended to include your immediate family, wedding party and their spouses. A lot of times invitations are extended to out-of-town family and guests because it is a great time to catch up other than on the wedding day. The decision can be daunting while writing the guest list to the rehearsal dinner. Who to invite while trying not to hurt anyone's feelings while not going over budget?A lot of our couples have family and friends coming from all over the country. The rehearsal is an opportune time to ho...
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Elegant Dinner for Korean LeadershipA Diverse Menu, Good Gracious StyleBy Pauline ParryNothing says "welcome" better than a dramatic red carpet!This is what guests of NetKAL (Network of Korean American Leadership) saw as they arrived at the Wallis Annenberg Building of the California Science Center for an elegant sit-down dinner produced by Party Designs by Carol and catered by yours truly.Inside, this 1920's armory, which was completely redone in 2004, combines traditional and contemporary beauty with all-glass atrium windows and an easily customized stage.The space also features a reflecting pool and a wind wall.To a caterer, ...
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Choosing Between a Buffet and a Served Dinnerthomas preti caterers The vast majority of my weddings are served sit-down dinners. Sit-downs are classics, and there is a good reason for that. So if you really want a buffet dinner, here are some things to consider: On costs: Do not assume that a buffet is less expensive. Yes, the service costs can go down, but on the other hand giving up “portion control” may result in significantly higher food costs. This is especially true if your menu includes expensive ingredients. Equipment costs can also be a factor; in addition to needing buffet tables with linens and serving eq...
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Napa Valley Rehearsal Dinner Venues
For those of you who haven't heard, Napa County strictly prohibits weddings or wedding rehearsals at Napa Valley wineries. There are a handful of wineries that are grand-fathered in to do weddings, but a handful out of 500 is not enough to help those that want to host wedding activities in the Napa Valley. Fortunately - most hotels in the Napa Valley do allow weddings and wedding rehearsals as do many bed and breakfasts. Here are some options if you'd like to host a wedding rehearsal at a location other than a lovely Napa Valley hotel or B & B.Quent Cordair Fine Art GalleryDowntown Napa is u...
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Rehearsal DinnerWe all know that the rehearsal dinner is a happy, usually informal time for family and friends to get together & relax before the wedding. Traditionally the groom's family hosts the party. Invited are the immediate families, the officiant and spouse, the complete wedding party and their spouses or dates. It is also a good idea to invite out-of-town guests too. It is usually held right after the rehearsal the night before the ceremony. However, it can be held another time if that is more convenient. Using place cards is a good idea to break the ice and help people meet each other. The brid...
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Stand Up or Sit Down Reception?Bridal couples are looking for the best of both worlds! We are a sociable bunch these days and the traditional sit down reception can restrict your friends really mingling and enjoying your wedding. Have you ever thought about having a caterer offer a roving entrée, seated main, followed by a roving dessert?This idea could be perfect for food-loving couples who can’t make their mind up between a sit-down and cocktail-style reception. It is a great idea and could mean a lot more fun for your family and friends at your wedding. The key to this experience for your guests would be the delivery ...
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Stand Up or Sit Down Reception?Bridal couples are looking for the best of both worlds! We are a sociable bunch these days and the traditional sit down reception can restrict your friends really mingling and enjoying your wedding. Have you ever thought about having a caterer offer a roving entrée, seated main, followed by a roving dessert? This idea could be perfect for food-loving couples who can’t make their mind up between a sit-down and cocktail-style reception. It is a great idea and could mean a lot more fun for your family and friends at your wedding. The key to this experience for your guests would be the delivery...
