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Raise Your Glasses

Long ago, we decided to ditch the traditional champagne toast. We just didn’t feel it was necessary to spend over $200 to pour and serve bubbly to our guests when we both prefer a cold beer anyway.

Instead, we liked the option of asking guests to raise whatever drink they have in hand for toasts by our Maid of Honor and Best Man. This could be one of three microbrews (Wedding Wheat, Bride’s Ale, or Groom’s Lager!), or a glass of red or white wine. It could also be one of the non-alcoholic options: iced tea, lemonade, or water.

However, we didn’t consider the logistics of our decision until we met with our DJ on Friday. He asked, when will guests get their drinks? You see, time is tight.

5:15 – 6:15 – cocktail hour
6:15 – guests move to reception tent
6:30 – bride and groom are announced into reception tent
6:35 – first dance as husband and wife
6:45 – blessing
6:50 – toasts
7:00 – buffet dinner

We brainstormed a few solutions, but each has consequences.

  • DJ announces that guests should get their drinks before we arrive. But will that cause a mad dash to the bar?
  • Bartender pre-pours beverages so guests can easily grab and go. But do you think we will be charged for this additional service?
  • One open bottle of wine sits on each table so guests can serve themselves. But what about the non-wine drinkers?
  • Oh, and what about our parents and our wedding party? When will they have time to fill their glasses between announcements and toasts?

Anyone have advice to offer?