Guest wants to show up for dancing but not ceremony/dinner?

I've never heard of this happening, but I would think the venue would at least charge you for the full cost of alcohol for this person. It sounds like it would be better if the person just didn't even bother coming.

View Quoted Comment That’s my thought as well but FH really wants them there

Part of me thinks they could just walk in 🙈 would the venue even notice? People go outside and smoke cigarettes all the time and if dinner is over and a seat is not needed...how would they know 😬

View Quoted Comment Not sure who this person is to your fiance, but it doesn't sound like your wedding is a top priority to them. And I'm not trying to be mean, but it sounds like all they care about is drinking and dancing as they are literally missing the most important part which is the actual wedding. I would also be very concerned they might not actually show up and that your venue will charge full price regardless of when they plan on showing up.

View Quoted Comment It’s definitely a priority to them which is why they want to show up even just for a bit. The other obligation can’t be moved but it’s completely valid and necessary they be there

View Quoted Comment Sorry for the second reply! Hit reply before I finished typing. Only reason they wouldn’t come is if the other obligation runs too late and everyone is already heading out

Honestly, life and other obligations happen, why not have them come when they can? Not the same situation, but our friends invited a new couple in our friend group to attend just their wedding after-party several years ago. The timeline for becoming friends and sending invites didn’t work out, but afterwards everyone was happy they agreed to join late. Plus they brought a new energy to the party! The common sentiment on WW that “everyone who cares will make your wedding work” just isn’t realistic, especially with the the number of rescheduled events from last year.
As to the venue, personally I wouldn’t mention anything bc they may not even show up and if they do it’s a couple drinks at most - but that’s a judgement call.

View Quoted Comment I agree with this. Just meet up with them at another time.

I wouldn't include them in the headcount or tell the venue anything. Let them crash at the end when they won't need a chair or a meal. Just let them know that that's the plan so they don't think they're pleasantly surprising you if they show up earlier

View Quoted Comment I agree with this.
Life gets busy, complicated and rushed sometimes. They’re your friends and you seem confident they want to celebrate with you as much as they can, which is great!
I would be ok if someone had another obligation and had to come late.

By the time everyone is dancing, the venue won’t know or care.

View Quoted Comment I agree with this. Their wedding might be a priority but these people can have other priorities that day, it doesn't mean they care less about the wedding or that they are horrible people. They are trying to make an effort to make it to both priorities. Personally I wouldn't mention anything to the venue.