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Wedding Reception Dresses

The wedding day plans are all in place and all you are thinking is that perfect evening reception that will leave your guests feeling that it was a real special day for you. But what about the lighting? This is a very important aspect in an evening indoors or outdoors reception. Therefore it means from the very outset when looking for the venue of the ceremony and/or reception, the lighting of the place should be taken into account. You should establish beforehand the position of your lamp stands vis–vis the reception and adjacent areas. There are so many ways in which you can spice up the general outlook of the place by just playing around with the lighting.

If you are not well conversant with lighting effects, you could enlist the services of a professional light expert. They will help you with the appropriate placement of different lights and by chance you might catch a word or two used by those in the professional lighting world. For example they might tell you on how you can use a pin spot. This is the kind of light used to highlight a certain aspect of the wedding because its light is focused on a specific object. The object could be the cake or a centerpiece.

Another lighting theme you could use is the use of gobos. These are circular stencils placed over a light to project a message, a date or just a beautiful design. They could be of stainless steel or glass and the effect is, well, magnificent. Or you could go for the more general color wash. This is a source of light that sweeps the whole place whether indoors or outdoors. You enhance the beauty of a color wash by adding a tinge of a favorite color like blue to bring out that effect of a cool evening.

Also make use of LED lights as much as possible. Light Emitting Diodes use much less energy and the ability to have various color shades and their vibrancy makes them a good choice. Whats more, they dont get hot like conventional light bulbs. LED lights can also be used to direct people on exits, washrooms, signaling the end of an event phase and the start of another, etc.

The trick in lighting lies in the right use of light. Know color variations that go with a certain phase of the event. For example, during dinner, all other lights can be off and then use candles strategically placed all over the reception room. And if your wedding reception is outdoors, hanging tree-lights will create a very beautiful wonderland feeling for your guests as well as you and your spouse, who are in any case the two most important people of the evening.

If you have in the itinerary during the reception a time for hitting the dance-floor, the rotating or muted disco lights will enliven that part of the ceremony. But by all means know which color combinations work best for you to avoid a color clash, or lighting to dim or too bright. A well-lit first day of marriage is a good recipe for a transparent warmth-lit marriage.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. QUESTION:
    Where can i see wedding reception dresses online for the bride?
    I need a reception dress, im going to be the bride and i havent been able to find any online.

    • ANSWER:
      You should truly consider wearing your wedding gown, but if you feel so uncomfortable at the idea of walking into the reception in the gown that you want to find something different, then I’m sure you could find a simple white or off-white gown at any major bridal website.

  2. QUESTION:
    BM dresses and wedding reception colours?
    My sister wants royal blue bridesmaid dresses with a black and white wedding reception theme. Somehow I don’t think that will work but what do you think?

    • ANSWER:
      They are my wedding colours. I am also encorporating the royal blue into the decor.
      I work in a function center and my favourite weddings have had these colours hence why I chose them. I find they work beautifully together.

  3. QUESTION:
    Any suggestions for wedding reception decor & bridemaid dresses if motif are yellow, red & orange?
    My friend is having a wedding this July here in the Philippines and having an autumn/fall theme wedding for her in a rainy month is quite awkward. She and neither we, can’t afford to hire a wedding coordinator. Please help.

    • ANSWER:
      It would be pretty to have the bridesmaids in a light yellow dress with bright orange flowers (orange calla lilies maybe?) here’s a link of what the flowers could look like http://images.jupiterimages.com/common/detail/10/23/23482310.jpg ..

      you could do centerpieces like clear containers filled halfway with water with bright yellow and orange gerber daisies floating in them.. then put the bowl on top of a mirror – like this http://www.neighborhoodflorist.com/photogallery/gerberabig.jpg

      check out this bridesmaids dress in yellow (change the color by clicking the square to the left)

      http://www.alfredangelo.com/Collections/ProductDisplay.aspx?productID=65738023-c82c-4c2f-876f-829d27e81ef6&categoryID=772f03c9-de43-4942-bfa0-da77e21ebd65&pg=0

      these are super cute for favors and you’d get to add in a little pink without it being too overpowering http://www.favorideas.com/shopping/prod/WBF-gerber-boxes.htm

      cute cake idea

      http://www.fortworthcatering.com/images/Wedding%20Cake_gerber%20daisies.jpg

      Best of luck! Congrats!

  4. QUESTION:
    Wedding reception and Bridesmaid dresses?
    I live in bishopville sc. Do anyone know where I can fine cheap bridemaid dresses under 0, I have 10 bridesmaid. And they are on a budget. My reception hall have high celling, and I want to hang tulle, light and balloons. Any ideas.

    • ANSWER:
      the key is not to shop for ‘bridesmaids’ dressing

      as soon as anything is associated with weddings, the prices sky rockets. you can definetly find dresses from 10-100 dollars anywhere

      good luck
      hollyy

  5. QUESTION:
    Clothes for wedding reception – not dresses pls?
    I hate skirts and dresses but I’m forced to attend a wedding and I promised to wear something appropriate.

    I don’t mind standing out, I hate suits too and I’m just a 16 yr old girl.

    help pls!

    • ANSWER:
      ruffles always appear dressy even when you dont wear a dress. so pick a nice top with ruffles such as this one from forever 21 preferably in a lighter color.

      http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=top_dressy&product_id=2059296408&Page=all

      or if you could go with a sleeveless top and a light sweater.

      http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=top_dressy&product_id=2055275865&Page=all

      pair this kind of top with a nice pair of slacks and a pair of flats or heels if you can tolerate them.

      http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=btms_pants&product_id=2055532446&Page=all

      browse around sites like charlotte rouse and forever21 for something that fits your style. they are affordable and fit your age group well. good luck =]

  6. QUESTION:
    should i change into a different dress for my wedding reception?
    i plan on having a very fancy wedding dress.. and lots of dancing at my reception. should i change into a different dress for the reception? should it be a certain color or style? should i still wear anything from the wedding.. like jewelry or shoes.. or should i change into comfortable shoes too?

    • ANSWER:
      I thought about the same thing too…but honestly. nothing will ever compare to wearing your wedding dress! The day flies by so fast that you will not even know what hit you. You have the rest of your life to wear things more comfortable and casual…wear the dress…you will look stunning, and you will want all of your pictures capturing you in that dress…not some less than version :)

  7. QUESTION:
    Is it bad luck for my fiance to have seen me in my second (reception) wedding dress?
    It is not the dress that I am going to get married in. It is a simpler and shorter wedding dress that I wanted to wear during the reception because it is lighter and much easier to dance and mover around in. Thank you.

    • ANSWER:

      http://www.ubrides.com/home.php?cat=743&catexp=743

  8. QUESTION:
    What do they call those wedding dresses that change into party dress for reception (detatch?)?
    Hi I just want to know what do they call those wedding dresses that start as a traditional long dress for the ceremony then can have a part of it taken off to make a party dress? (shorter)
    And where do you get them from? Is there a specific name for them?
    I think Roxy Mitchell had one from Eastenders? lol
    Thanks guys

    • ANSWER:
      I think you are looking for a convertible wedding dress or a wedding dress with a detachable skirt.

      They are difficult to find, but here are a few:

      http://www.customcouturebridal.com/Custom-Couture-Paris-Convertible-Wedding-Dress-p/cb110.htm

      This is Martina Liana Dress 260

      http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Kz2nGfk_Hqo/SkS7HdTrdHI/AAAAAAAAAHk/vKUgnBKT5NA/s1600-h/Martina+260.jpg

      http://www.martinaliana.com/

      Morgan Boszilkov has a couple in the Natural Bridal Collection (the Kathleen is super cute!):
      Check out the Kathleen and Janine styles here:

      http://www.naturalbridals.com/kathleen1.html

      http://www.naturalbridals.com/kathleen3.html

      http://www.naturalbridals.com/janine1.html

      http://www.naturalbridals.com/janine3.html

  9. QUESTION:
    What kind of business dresses a hall for a wedding reception?
    Like what would the name of that service be? Hall dresser???

    • ANSWER:
      This could invovlve one vendor that does everything or several vendors that do different things

      I would start off looking at table and linen rentals and go from there.

      Some people also get companys to come in and do lighting, and there’s the florists that provide centerpieces etc.

  10. QUESTION:
    Should I change dresses between wedding ceremony and reception (I’m a guest)?
    I’m going to a black tie wedding and got a very fancy gown (something one might wear to the Oscars) for the event, which is at the Ritz Hotel. However, I just realized that the ceremony is at a church, and not only do I now have to worry about the proper coat (it’s on the East Coast) to put over my dress, I’m wondering if it’s not too fancy of a gown for a daytime church wedding. Do I wear one thing to the wedding and the nice gown to the reception? What’s the etiquette?

    • ANSWER:
      You should wear a formal afternoon dress to a daytime church wedding ceremony — normally a tea-length gown with pearls or beads, and a hat and three-button gloves if you are in the habit of wearing those accessories. For the black-tie evening party your evening gown is correct, with glittering stones and no hat, and with eighteen-button gloves if you wear gloves.

      So, yes, the proper thing to do is change clothes between the ceremony and the reception. Quite possibly there may be many guests who cannot, or who don’t want to bother; but if you do so you at least will be correct.

  11. QUESTION:
    what kind of dresses are appropriate for a september wedding reception?
    It’s a night wedding.
    Fancy place.

    • ANSWER:
      Being a night wedding at a ‘fancy place’ I would suggest this will be a formal wedding – which usually calls for full length gown. Try something like these…

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/10833/Pageant-Social/Venus-Special-Occasion-Dress-566021

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/9645/Pageant-Social/Evenings-by-Mon-Cheri-Dress-18803

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/9306/Pageant-Social/Caterina-Special-Occasion-Dress-5018

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/10870/Pageant-Social/Venus-Special-Occasion-Dress-572016

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/9338/Pageant-Social/Rina-Di-Montella-Evening-Dress-R1828

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/9338/Pageant-Social/Rina-Di-Montella-Evening-Dress-R1828

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/23440/Pageant-Social/La-Femme-2008-Prom-Dress-13262

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/23559/Pageant-Social/La-Femme-2008-Prom-Dress-13597

      http://www.tjformal.com/Products/175/23602/Pageant-Social/TJ-Formal-Exclusive-Prom-Dress-13724

      Really – anything that is floor length and fairly simple and not slutty will be fine. Add a bolero jacket or stole for if it gets cool.

      I don’t agree with the ‘don’t wear red’ that some people go on about – red is fine to wear – it only becomes a problem (ie taking attention away from the bride) if it is skanky and low cut or with a split up to you know where! And that would be a problem in any coloured dress, not just a red dress.

      But if you wear black I would try and add some colour – it is not so taboo these days but some people still see it as a mourning colour so you have to keep that in mind and not make others feel like you do not agree with the marriage!

      And of course do not wear white or any creams. Other than that have fun deciding what to wear! Hope I’ve helped a bit.

  12. QUESTION:
    Do i need a separate dress for wedding reception?
    I’ve been hearing yes and no on this question. I have 3 weeks till my wedding and was wondering if i needed a second dress or not.

    Other Info:
    I definitely plan on dancing all night long, my wed dress has a train that isn’t very long (can easily bustle it up).

    Thanks for any info!

    • ANSWER:
      One of the main reasons for using a bustle on wedding dress is the ability to be able keep wearing that lovely dress and to dance with ease without tripping over the train.

      If the style of your dress lends to a french bustle or under bustle, the pictures here might give you some idea. http://www.doweb4u.com/french_bustle.htm

      Some dresses have a lot of beading in the the back and might look better like this. http://www.doweb4u.com/bustle.htm

  13. QUESTION:
    Is it a good or bad idea to have your bridemaid dresses match the color of your wedding reception?
    Like would you want your bridemaid’s dresses to match the floral elements and color themes…etc? or is that cheesy and should not be done?

    • ANSWER:
      Generally speaking, a couple chooses 2 or 3 colors for their wedding. Those 2 or 3 colors generally compliment one another, and are used throughout the wedding… from flower arrangements (which or not usually one solid color anyway) to the bridesmaids dresses.

      So in answer to your question, color coordination is not “cheesy” just be tasteful in your coordinating :)

  14. QUESTION:
    Send me links to cute dresses to wear to a Luau that is going to be my Wedding Reception.. pic inside*?
    For my wedding reception I am having a Luau..i’m not wearing my wedding dress because they are on different days.. send me links cute summer dresses you think would look cute at a Luau.. Here is one I found.. it is the only think I can find http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/onlineProductDisplay.vs?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=CM-170081&cgname=OSKEYCLOZZZ&rfnbr=3198&atb=B
    It does not have to be white
    I do not want a wedding dress and it doesnt have to look like a brides dress.. I just want really pretty dresses that are bright….
    I want pictures of sundresses

    • ANSWER:
      since your post linked to a white dress – do you want something “brideish”? If so try something like this http://beachweddingdressesforyou.info/

      Or try http://hawaiianweddingshop.com/cottonbeachbridal.html

      my yahoo search was for beach wedding dresses…. I don’t know if you want something a little more tropical?

      best of luck!

  15. QUESTION:
    what is a good online site to order a white cocktail dress for my wedding reception?
    Hello, I am looking to view fairly inexpensive white cocktail dresses, so that I may wear one for my wedding reception.

    Do you know of any good online dress stores?

    • ANSWER:
      www.davidsbridal.com

  16. QUESTION:
    Is it considered “tacky” to wear your veil during the wedding reception?
    I found a beautiful wedding dress that is strapless and elegant. However, I am a little uncomfortable wearing strapless dresses since I am a modest person and I have acne scars on my back. All the other styles of dresses that have more coverage make me look old and they are kind of old-fashioned. With my veil on, my back is covered and I don’t feel so “exposed” when I’m wearing it. After the ceremony, is it proper etiquette to keep the veil on during the reception? Or does it look corny?

    • ANSWER:
      Of course not – most women want to be a ‘bride’ the whole day, and wear the veil for the ceremony and all evening for the reception. I had a fingertip veil, wore it back, it stayed in place, was out of the way, not a bother at all, and it was totally comfortable.

  17. QUESTION:
    Would it be ok to wear a wedding dress at my 5 year wedding reception?
    My husband and I are having a huge reception for our 5 year wedding anniversary and I was wondering if it would be appropriate t wear my wedding dress (altered of course) and a veil. We didn’t have a reception or even a big wedding the first time around so I was wondering if it would be ok.

    • ANSWER:
      Its YOUR day! Do what you want!!

  18. QUESTION:
    do i wear my wedding dress to my reception? Just got back from a destination wedding?
    i just went and had a destination wedding in hawaii, and i am planning a reception now that we are back. The reception is small, and will be a casual hawaiian theme. Do i wear my wedding dress? The reception is more than a month after my actual wedding date. Any good ideas for a hawaiian reception?

    • ANSWER:
      you could very well wear your dress – i’m sure you spent time and money choosing something you liked so – why not share it with your guests. a nice centerpiece for the tables would be a picture(s) of the two of you in hawaii such maybe some of the plumeria around.

  19. QUESTION:
    How does this dress look as a reception wedding dress?
    I have a huge puffy dress that I can barely move in for the ceremony so i need a nice flowy dress for the reception. Does this look nice or should i keep looking. Im 5ft and 140 lbs.

    http://www.romanticgowns.com/collection/displayimage.asp?image=athena-front-2010-c.jpg

    I need feedback please!!! Thank you

    • ANSWER:
      When brides change it’s usually because they want to let loose and dance, so they wear a shorter dress.. That seems like a second wedding dress. People will step on your train. If you like that style and don’t want to go short, maybe something like this. http://www.romanticgowns.com/collection/product-page.asp?SKU=Monroe

  20. QUESTION:
    where can i buy a nice dress for a wedding reception?
    hello, ive got an even wedding reception to go to and i havent got a clue on where to buy a little dress dress,im not in to long dresses. does anyone know any websites on where i can buy one?? all help is appreciated!! thanx

    • ANSWER:
      jcp.com has lots of dresses. That’s JC Penny’s. you can shop at their store and try it on before you buy and save on the shipping charge.

  21. QUESTION:
    Is getting a different dress for the wedding reception tacky or bad?
    I’m wearing my mother’s dress for the wedding itself, but the wedding is in August and I’m going to be doing a lot of dancing. I also want to bring something newer to the wedding- bringing the good of the old generation with the dress and my grandmother’s veil…but then I would like to add my own flair for the reception with a dress that is mine and fits my personality.

    • ANSWER:
      I think that sounds like great idea. If I had the money, I would do the same thing. Best regards!

  22. QUESTION:
    Wedding reception dress code?
    Does anyone know what the proper attire would be for a wedding reception? I want to wear a black dress, but I’m not too sure on the fashion faux paus. Anyone have any tips?

    • ANSWER:
      For a wedding reception, it is usually dressy. So a black dress would be fine, as long as it is modest and not a mini kind of thing with a lot of flesh showing up top.

  23. QUESTION:
    Wedding reception dress code help!?
    Ok well i’m going to my sisters wedding reception and I don’t know what to wear. She said casual but i don’t think she means jeans and a T-shirt, what should i wear (don’t say a dress….i don’t wear dresses!) I hate skirts, i can’t wear a tank top or spagetti staps… I’m going insane! Please help if you can.
    PS. I’m 13! not 20 or something!

    • ANSWER:
      Well, depending on the wedding location, or indoor outdoor, it really depends. don’t wear all white or black though.Have you ever tried wearing ankle length leggings with an over-sized slouchy sweater? It’s a great figure flattering outfit that can be dressed up with accessories or shoes.Try black tights with a charcoal gray or beige long slouchy sweater and ballet flats. silver or gold, depending on sweater choice. Then accessorize with a black adjustable belt over the sweater and some matching jewelry. Aldo accessories is a great place to jazz up a wardrobe for less! If you wear jewelry wear dangly earrings, and chunky bracelets.Dont mix your metals.Good luck.E-mail me at matcstudent@hotmail.com if you need details or more advice.

  24. QUESTION:
    What to wear to a wedding reception if you don’t wear dresses.?

    • ANSWER:

  25. QUESTION:
    What should I wear to my wedding reception?
    I am getting married for the 2nd time in a Caribbean setting. I have my wedding dress, but can’t decide what to wear for the reception. We will be performing a rumba for our first dance. I really want to wear white cropped pants with a shiny/sequined top, but wonder if that is too casual. Any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      Really, I think it depends on how casual the rest of the wedding is. For the setting you said, I would go with something like…a floral patterened dress that falls a couple of inches above the knee. Strapless, maybe? Oh, here. Something in this style, but in a different pattern.

      http://www4.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?DeptID=50434&CatID=63887&GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=1751dbe&attrtype=&attrvalue=&CMID=50434%7c50444%7c63883&Fltr=&Srt=&QL=F&IND=29&cmVirtualCat=&CmCatId=50434|50444|63883|63887

      And wear it with some strappy heels or something. And remember…it’s your wedding! Wear what you want. You decide how casual or formal the event is! Congratz, and good luck finding the dress.

  26. QUESTION:
    Should I wear my wedding dress to my reception?
    My fiance and I are planning on getting married and having our honeymoon just the two of us…..then when we get back….we are going to have a big reception and invite everyone and do the cake and have a dance. What should I wear? My wedding dress again?

    • ANSWER:
      That’s what my fiance’s sister did. She got married at a beach 8 hours away and came home and her reception was a month later. She had her ceremony videotaped and after the guests at the reception got done watching the ceremony on a projector…they did their grand entrance. It was like the guests were just at the ceremony and the reception was right after. Definitely wear the dress. That’s half the reason you got the dress anyway…to flow around the reception!

  27. QUESTION:
    Should I be able to wear a different pair of shoes for the wedding reception?
    So I’m standing up in my cousin’s wedding. The dresses are boring and so are the shoes. Just plain and basic black everything. And that’s fine, it’s her wedding she can do what she wants. So my question is: Do you think I should be able to change into a different pair of shoes for the reception? Or is that too tacky? I just want to be able to wear something that is more of my own personal style.

    • ANSWER:
      you should
      the dresses sound kind of plain. no offense
      ruffles should make it stand out more :)
      but check with your cousin first
      like you said, it’s her wedding

      here are some suggestions:
      if the dress is short, wear heels, wedges, or flats
      if the dress is long, wear dressy sandals, or flats

  28. QUESTION:
    Looking for a short white dress that i can wear at my wedding reception!?
    im not wanting to wear my actual wedding dress for the whole reception. Im going to wear it for the cutting of the cake and the 1st dance and stuff but once that is over i want to find a cute short white dress to wear. Anyone have any ideas? I love this dress — http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress.aspx?page=11&style=A3240 — i wanted to try to find something that the back looked similar to this but short if i could.

    • ANSWER:
      Here’s a few you might like:

      http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3019857/0~2376776~2374327~2374331~6014155?mediumthumbnail=Y&origin=category&searchtype=&pbo=6014155&P=1

      http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3031099/0~2376776~2374327~2374331~6014155?mediumthumbnail=Y&origin=category&searchtype=&pbo=6014155&P=1

      http://www.bestfordress.com/short-wedding-dresses-a05-p-311.html

      http://www.bestfordress.com/short-wedding-dresses-a09-p-315.html (this one is the closest to the photo you provided)

      You might want to consider having the dress made. Since its a more informal look, I am sure you could get a great price from a local seamstress. This way you could also get it to look the most like the Maggie Sottero.

  29. QUESTION:
    Is it okay for me to not wear a formal wedding dress to my own wedding reception?
    We’re not very traditional, and our actual wedding ceremony will be immediate family only, but the reception after will include all of our friends. I want it to be very casual, so is a sundress okay for the party? And does it have to be white? Can I include in the invitation that it’s casual attire only, without looking tacky?

    • ANSWER:
      Hey, it’s your day, do whatever you like!
      I had my wedding on Halloween, stipulated fancy dress on the invites, it was brilliant! Most people got into the spirit of it and we all had a great time.
      I was dressed as a fairy, I had a dark purple dress with huge black and silver wings.
      You should do exactly what you want to do with the day. If more traditional family members disapprove, that’s their problem not yours.

  30. QUESTION:
    Ideas for a wedding reception at home after a destination wedding?
    Thinking about throwing a reception after our destination wedding. What is customary for these? Food? Does the bride wear wedding dress to this? Cake?

    • ANSWER:
      Anything goes. You can make as casual or semi-casual as you wish. Obviously, it would seem out of place to wear a formal wedding gown in your own home- unless you have the intention of making this event a black tie affair. What you decide to wear whether it be the wedding gown, a cocktail dress, or jeans and tee shirt should reflect the formality of your reception. I think in most cases, a nice Sunday dress would be appropriate.

      Things to consider:
      - invitations (e-mail? written? phone calls? *mention dress code)
      - guest list (who? how many? will there be any children? any activities for the children? no children?)
      - food ( will a friend cook? will you buy from a caterer?)
      - alcohol (margarita machine? beer well? liquor bar? wine(s)? who will serve cocktails? what kind of cocktails?)
      - cake ( do you WANT a cake or a dessert layout? from a bakery or the grocery store? what kind of desserts?)
      - seating (will you have enough seating for your guests? indoors or outdoors?)
      - music ( musicians? stereo? dj?)
      - videography/photography (will someone take pictures and record? do you want to distribute disposable cameras for your guests to take snapshots? will a friend record and edit a video for you? )
      - guest book- might be a good idea
      - display framed photos from your destination wedding
      - parking accommodations in a residential area
      - noise tolerance by neighbors (time of day becomes of importance. you may want to give your neighbors a heads up on your upcoming event)
      - decor (tent rental? flowers? streamers? candles? lighting? balloons? centerpieces? banners? signs?)

  31. QUESTION:
    When do the bride and groom normally leave the wedding reception?
    The reception starts at 6 until 12. My fiance and I are planning on leaving before it is over, but do not know what time is a good time. Also are any of you brides past and future change out of your wedding dress into a party dress? I was thinking of doing this also, but don’t know if I should. thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      Hey there,

      I would probably leave somwhere between 11 and 11:30

      As for your dress. It’s completely up to you. If you want to change out of your dress then do so its your day do it your way. My sister changed out of her dress on her wedding day at the reception because she didn’t want to accidentally spill any of her dinner on her dress lol.

      I am planning to stay in mine for the whole night because I want all photos the same like cutting the cake and our first dance etc.

      My dress is being made for me and will have detatchable train and over layers that will be removeable if I then wish to remove them later on I can and my dress will look a little different but mostly the same. just an idea I came up with. We’re planning to have outdoor wedding so don’t want my train ruined by walking around outside.

      All the best to you.

  32. QUESTION:
    Whats the difference between a Wedding Reception and a Dinner Dance?
    I would just like to know what the difference is in having a wedding reception or having a dinner dance instead, i know the dinner dance is cheaper and Im trying to save some money. Can you wear your wedding dress though if you have a dinner dance?

    thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      never heard of a dinner dance, so I don’t know what it is for or the meaning of them, sorry can’t help you

  33. QUESTION:
    Wedding reception overseas- just the bride and the groom?
    I am already married but never had a wedding reception bc the groom’s parents are crazy. So I am thinking of having a wedding reception abroad with just the groom and me and having a person take pictures and getting a nice wedding dress. I am not a big fan of having weddings anyway where people you don’t really know eat drink and leave and take pictures of each other..in other words they don’t care about you (not talking about close friends). What do you guys think of this idea- ?

    • ANSWER:
      Totally agree. I am getting married next year (same situation – my mans parents are nuts) and we are having our ceremony by a waterfall in a rainforest, then for the ‘reception’ we are having a candelight dinner by the water and perhaps a sunset cruise. We are also having a wedding cake for 2 =]

      nothing crazy, just romantic, intimate and simple. Marriage is about you and your spouse, so why feel the need to incorporate so many people to feel special? I couldn’t think of a better way to have a wedding then just the 2 of you….

      Also, for your idea i think its fab =] why the hell not, rekindle some romance!!!! Go for it its a great idea and you both will love it, go on – spoil yourselves!

  34. QUESTION:
    Is it rude to wear an ivory colored dress to a wedding reception?
    It’s an asian wedding. I needed a dress for my friend’s debut this fri and there weren’t any nice dresses besides the ivory one and I don’t want to spend $ on another dress since I’ll probably won’t be able to wear this dress more than 2X

    • ANSWER:
      I don’t think so, however…I would look into Asian customs. (i.e., it would not be right to wear a bright red dress to a funeral..etc)
      I think, as long as it doesn’t take the focus from the bride,..it would be okay.

  35. QUESTION:
    where can i buy a cute and unique cocktail dress for my wedding reception?
    Hello! could someone tell me where can i buy a cute and unique cocktail dress for my wedding reception?

    • ANSWER:
      You can buy a cute one at pretty much any dress shop. For a unique one you’d have to talk to a designer. Unique does mean “one of a kind,” after all, so you’d probably be talking about commissioning something.

      I’m guessing you really don’t need something unique… just uncommon.

  36. QUESTION:
    Two dresses for destination wedding? One for party and one for wedding/ reception?
    I am getting married in the Dominican in a few weeks and am starting to wonder if I am going to be way too hot with my choice of dress. It is fine for the wedding but when I want to go dancing and partying after I was thinking of getting something else. Here is my wedding dress: http://thebridalboutique.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/paloma3900.jpg

    I seen this dress at BCBG but do not know if it is exactly bridal’ish or too skimpy:

    http://www.bcbg.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3949388&cp=2840697&view=all&parentPage=family

    Thoughts? :| Yes to another dress? Just keep the long one on all night? Yes to this dress? Helpppppppp.

    19 seconds ago Edit

    • ANSWER:
      You are right. The second dress is too short . This site has a lot of short dresses.
      Look at some of the long gowns.

  37. QUESTION:
    Is it ok to wear your wedding dress if the reception is in a restaraunt?
    Our reception is going to be in a somewhat rather ritzy restaurant. Should i be embarassed to walk into the reception room in my wedding dress??

    • ANSWER:
      what? no way! It’s your day, enjoy every minute of wearing that dress!! If you feel weird or it might be hard to move around the restaurant in it, then I’d look for a white dress the change into at the reception. I definately don’t think you should be embarassed though!

  38. QUESTION:
    Girls evening wedding reception dress help needed!?
    I am going to an evening wedding reception next month and am unsure whether I should wear a dress that I bought and wore to my works christmas party last year or not.
    I am on a budget and I have only worn the dress once and only a couple of people I know are going to the reception too that would have seen me wearing it last year.
    I am slightly worried that people will notice I wore it a year ago!
    Any advice?

    • ANSWER:
      Most people won’t notice and those that do are unlikely to care. As long as the dress is appropriate for an evening reception it should be okay. Everyone should be focused on the couple and the party instead of what you are wearing.

  39. QUESTION:
    Can I wear my wedding dress to a reception held a month after my destination wedding?
    I am having a small destination wedding in Hawaii and then a reception in my hometown a month after the wedding in Hawaii. Is it okay to wear my wedding dress to the reception so that my grandparents and others that do not attend see me in my dress? My dress is tea length strapless and white.

    Please help!

    • ANSWER:
      By the description of your dress, yes, it’s appropiate and you will be confortable and elegant. I wouldn’t go as fas as having a bouquet or a veil again (big etiquette faux pas) but you can have your hair done and even wear a tiara or flowers on your hair.

      Congratulations and good luck

  40. QUESTION:
    Is it appropriate to wear this to a wedding reception?
    I have a halter cotton sundress and the main color is white, but it has black polka dots on the whole dress and at the top there is black trim. I was thinking of wearing this along with a pink cardigan. I’m just wondering if wearing this amount of white would be unacceptable. I’m not sure if the bride will be wearing a wedding dress… the couple went to Vegas to get married several months ago and this reception is for family and friends.

    • ANSWER:
      As long as you are going to keep the pink cardigan on, then I think what you are planning is fine, but you do need the pink for some color.

  41. QUESTION:
    iIn regards to the wedding-dress and reception?
    is it acceptible for the groom to…

    1. Offer an idea for the theme of the wedding reception
    Japanese

    2. Offer an idea for the style of the wedding dress
    3. Offer to pay for the wedding dress
    4. Offer to supply the wedding dress
    White-Silk Kimono
    with silver embroidary
    (3-12 layers)
    I’m not getting married yet.
    It’s for future notice.

    • ANSWER:
      Your wedding day is a joint venture! A lot of brides forget its about the groom too! hahah I say – SURE if he’s that interested in the details and you both agree on the style of dress and theme if he wants to buy your wedding dress – how special is that? Thats wonderfully sweet of him. Just make sure you both agree on the details. The japanese theme and kimono sound beautiful.

  42. QUESTION:
    What is an appropriate 3rd marriage wedding dress and reception invites?
    I know. 3rd marriage. Doubt all you want. I should have not been married the second time. Like that makes it better. I just want an honest opinion on dress and invites.

    • ANSWER:
      Whatever you want – I wouldnt invite anyone who had a problem with your choices. IF they have an issue with you, then they shouldnt have been at the first two weddings.

      I plan on getting married again eventually, if I never even get a divorce. My first wedding was horrible – more like a shotgun wedding than anything else – and I am going all out – and will have a lot less people there to judge me this time as well. :)

  43. QUESTION:
    Wedding Reception Dress Code Wording?
    I am unsure how to word the dress code on my wedding invitations for the reception. I don’t want it to be formal where guests need to where tuxes and suits however not casual either where guests can wear ripped up jeans and baggy t-shirts. Basically I would simply like it to be dressy where khakis and a decent top are fine. How to word something like that?
    Yes I actually am worried about some particular people on my fiances side that went to his cousins wedding dressed like gang banging wannabe’s.

    • ANSWER:
      I honestly don’t think you need to reference the dress code on your invitation. I’ve never been invited to a wedding with the dress code indicated to me, and I’ve never dressed inappropriately, or seen anyone else dressed to casually or formally at a wedding either. Most people know how to dress for a wedding (who do you know that thinks ripped jeans are appropriate for a wedding?)

      Few people ever get invited to black-tie only events anyway. So since you probably aren’t a celebrity and having your wedding at the Ritz Carleton, people will know to leave their penguin suits at home. I think you should have some faith in your guests social graces that they will show up in appropriate attire. Again, I’ve never been to a wedding where someone showed up in jeans … people generally have more common sense than that. I don’t think you need to worry about cluttering up your invites by stating the dress code. The dress code is “what you wear to a wedding”.

      Don’t stress over the small stuff … leave the outfit choices up to your guests … you’ve got WAY too much other stuff on your wedding planning plate!

      Best Wishes!

  44. QUESTION:
    Is it okay for the wedding reception colors be different from the bridesmaids dresses?
    I’m planning my wedding and my dress will be red and white, and the wedding party will be wearing black. However, the reception will have a chocolate theme and the colors will be chocolate-inspired: ivory (white chocolate), dark brown (milk chocolate), with gold and red accents (for the strawberries and raspberries). Is this okay? Or does the wedding party need to match the reception colors? I’m not sure if the ceremony and the reception will be in the same venue or not. My fiance and I are just coming up with the theme first.
    This is what the reception would look like

    http://www.brides.com/images/editorial/2008_brides/05_06_p410_loveofchocolate/00_main/006_primary.jpg

    • ANSWER:

  45. QUESTION:
    Are these dresses ok for a wedding reception?
    Me, my husband and our three kids are going to a wedding reception next week. It’s my brother’s wedding reception. He got married on a beach when he was on holiday with his now wife as they didn’t want the interfering family annoying their planning but left them to do the reception to surprise them, it’s an informal reception. Well we’ve got our son’s and my husband’s clothes sorted but not mine and our two girls who are 8 and 4.

    mine: http://www.monsoon.co.uk/invt/55505727&bklist=icat,5,shop,women,dresses,smartdresses

    8 year old: http://www.monsoon.co.uk/invt/55821729&bklist=icat,5,shop,children,girl,girldresses

    4 year old: http://www.monsoon.co.uk/invt/55006328&bklist=icat,5,shop,children,girl,girldresses

    • ANSWER:

  46. QUESTION:
    When I have my reception for my wedding, should I wear my wedding dress?
    I am going away to St. Thomas to get married and only a selected few will be going. We are treating that as our honeymoon as well. When we come back a week later, we are having a reception at a nice hall like a normal wedding reception. Should I wear my wedding dress, or something nice since I am already a week married

    • ANSWER:
      I think it’s a nice thing to wear your dress – people will want to see it & you get to wear it again!

  47. QUESTION:
    Is it tacky to wear your wedding dress to your reception if…?
    The reception is two months after the ceremony? My boyfriend and I are having a VERY small ceremony with only our parents and siblings in the spring, and a big bbq in the summer with our entire families and all of our friends. I want to wear my very simple, long, flowing wedding dress to the reception, but would that be weird? Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      PFffffffffffffft.

      Wear it! What will it to if you didn’t. Spend its time collecting dust for who knows how long.

      Wear it to the reception. Sounds fantastic.

  48. QUESTION:
    What are good stores to buy a going away dress for my wedding reception?
    I would prefer the range to be under 150 dollars. I need to find a nice dress that isn’t too casual. I would like it to be somewhat formal/cocktail. It will be during the winter so long dresses would be fine too. If you know any stores or website of those stores that would help a lot.

    • ANSWER:
      I ended up buying mine at Loehmann’s.
      Any department store or mall would be the right place to shop.

  49. QUESTION:
    Wedding reception ettiquette?
    a friend of mine is planning to have a small intimate wedding out of town. the reception is planned for the following week. Should she wear her wedding dress to the reception or should she buy another dress?

    • ANSWER:
      She can do whatever it is that she wants to do!

      Many brides will wear the dress again!

      We’re having a second small reception with friends and family who can’t make it to our wedding (because the wedding is halfway across the country). My Maid of Honor suggested wearing my wedding gown for that. She told me that one of her good friends did the exact same with her second reception.

      It’s totally acceptable if the bride wants too. Anyone who tells you otherwise is a self-proclaimed etiquette god.

      Fact is, there is no etiquette for this matter. It’s not going to insult anyone if she does, and it’s not going to insult anyone if she doesn’t. It’s UP TO HER, and what SHE WANTS TO DO.

      ♥

  50. QUESTION:
    Wedding Dress and Reception Dress?
    What does everyone think of having a separate dress for the reception? Have you ever been to a wedding where the bride had one? I know they’ve gotten very popular lately and I’ve been to a few weddings where the bride had one. My wedding dress has a long full skirt and I’m afraid it will be repeatedly stepped on and make it hard to move in. I’ve had a few friends who are already married suggest it and say that they wish they had had one to make it easier to dance and move around.

    Do you like any of these reception dresses and do you think it will work with my ceremony dress?

    MY CEREMONY DRESS-

    POSSIBLE RECEPTION DRESSES-

    Dress 1-

    Dress 2-

    Dress 3-

    Does anyone know of any reception dresses with the silk-type look that would match my wedding dress? Suggestions are welcome! Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      I’ve been to a wedding with and one without a second dress.

      With the one dress, the bride stands out. Her dress bushels up so she could dance. There are also dresses with removable trains.

      I don’t think it is worth buying a second dress. Just plan for your wedding dress to be comfortible at the reception.


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