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Kelsey
Just Said Yes October 2022

Reception Invites - open bar

Kelsey, on August 22, 2022 at 4:29 PM Posted in Planning 3 8

We are having a private, destination ceremony in October and a big reception a few weeks later. How much info on the reception invite is reasonable? We are doing a BBQ self serve buffet and open bar. Since the guests don't need to tell us what food they choose, do we announce there will be open bar? The venue is kid-friendly, but we also want guests to know they might have a pretty good time and maybe should leave the little ones at home Smiley smile

8 Comments

Latest activity by Laura, on August 25, 2022 at 1:31 PM
  • Bailey
    Expert October 2023
    Bailey ·
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    You don't need to add any of that to the invite - if you feel like you need to tell people, put it on your website! Traditionally, you don't give any details regarding buffet/bar, but I think if you're having a cash bar or dry wedding, you should let your guests know in advance via website.

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  • Grace
    Super February 2022
    Grace ·
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    This is something that is probably better to discuss verbally. If you really are worried, you can include it on a details page on your website.



    Some people have no issue with their kids being around alcohol and they will also drink responsibly so they can supervise their kids. Other people need things spelled out a little bit, so they understand the social expectation that if you bring your kids you are responsible for monitoring their behavior. You know your guests so do what works best for your crowd.
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  • Erin
    Super May 2022
    Erin ·
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    No need to put details about the buffet and bar. We had a buffet and sort of open bar at our wedding reception and didn’t put anything on the invitations about that. If there’s not a meal selection in the RSVP, most people know to expect there will be a buffet.



    With the kids thing, unless you absolutely want it to be adults-only no exceptions for anyone, then leave that to the discretion of each parent. A statement of “we can only accommodate adults” goes over better than mildly suggesting they leave the kids at home.
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  • Michelle
    Rockstar December 2022
    Michelle ·
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    Etiquette varies by social circle but generally there is never any mention of the type of beverage service available. Guests will find out when they arrive. Is there a reason they need to know ahead of time, especially if they are not paying out of pocket?
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  • Michelle
    Rockstar December 2022
    Michelle ·
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    As far as kids are involved, that decision is left to the parents’ discretion to decide. Unless it’s a child free event, you don’t say anything either way about kids.
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  • Mrs.evans
    VIP October 2022
    Mrs.evans ·
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    Just put the date time location and if the you will be serving a sit down dinner which you give options too choose from steak, chicken or fish a circle for them to mark. And if its buffet style area for them simple response box Y or N
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  • Brittany
    Devoted October 2022
    Brittany ·
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    Definitely agree that this information should go on your website, not your invitations. It's not totally necessary, but it's nice to let folks know they won't need to purchase drinks - and maybe this will lead them to be extra generous when it comes to a gift! Smiley winking

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  • Laura
    Dedicated September 2022
    Laura ·
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    I think it would be a nice touch to add that it will be open bar for those that have kids especially. They can make plans for an adult night out.
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