People love brunch, and for a good reason. Waffles, omelets, and pastries paired with fresh coffee, mimosas, and bloody Mary’s are a winning combination. With such a delicious and enticing spread, it was only a matter of time before couples started offering brunch at their wedding receptions. However, there are several things you must first consider before you commit to throwing a brunch reception.
Expect an Early Start
Wedding day prep takes time often several hours regardless of when the ceremony begins. For a brunch wedding, that means starting even earlier. Before locking in a morning timeline, consult your vendors. Ask your hairstylist how long they’ll need for you and your bridal party, and check with your makeup artist, who may need to wait until hair is finished. Creating a detailed schedule can help you understand how early everyone needs to be up—and whether you’re ready for a pre-dawn wake-up call.
Some Guests May Not Be Able to Attend
Morning weddings can be tricky for some guests, especially those who work weekends—like retail employees or small business owners. Likewise, a weekday wedding might pose challenges if most of your guests have traditional jobs. You know your guest list best, so think about their schedules before choosing a brunch wedding. If timing doesn’t align, be prepared for a few declined invitations.
Less Time with Friends and Family
Pre-wedding moments can be just as memorable as the ceremony and reception—sharing laughs over hair and makeup, giving bridesmaid gifts, and snapping behind-the-scenes photos. With a brunch wedding, you can still enjoy these special touches, but time may be tighter. You might also trade mimosas for coffee or espresso—after all, you’ll want to be energized, not fighting off yawns during your vows or nodding off at the reception!
The Reception May Be More Casual
Brunch weddings will differ from an evening reception in multiple ways. Guests might not want to wear formal attire at 10 a.m. Instead, brunch receptions tend to feel more like a garden party or a bridal shower, but your guests might be looking forward to that. Encourage your friends and family members to wear bold colors and patterns that they may not get to show off that often.
Match the Decor to the Reception
Many brides and grooms have been picturing their wedding for years. They likely already have picked out color schemes, patterns, and flower arrangements. Since brunch weddings are usually more casual, you must consider how your decorations will reflect the atmosphere. For example, you may opt for wildflowers in a mason jar instead of an extravagant floral arrangement. Similarly, you may go with a buffet instead of a sit-down meal.
Choosing the Right Food Can Be Challenging
When you hear the term “brunch wedding,” you might immediately think of pancakes and waffles. Remember, brunch is serious business, and choosing a spread for everyone is not easier at brunch than it is for dinner. Some items you can serve include chicken and waffles, freshly-made omelets, or finger sandwiches. Something to also consider is your desert. While layers of fondant and icing are beautiful and delicious, your guests might not be interested in that at the end of a brunch. Instead, consider serving cinnamon rolls, cookies, or cupcakes.
Plan Your Outdoor Wedding at Windows on the Water
If you are looking for a picture-perfect backdrop for your wedding, look no further than Windows on the Water. With scenic lakeside views and 86-acres of lush forestry, our venue is the perfect place to tie the knot. To learn more about our offerings, call (609) 208-9475 or complete our contact form today! We can’t wait to make your dream wedding a reality.