How to Pull Off a Daytime Wedding Reception
Sunshine, blue skies, and—best of all—a whole evening to spend however you want! Daytime weddings have grown in popularity, providing couples with a beautiful alternative to traditional evening celebrations. In addition to enjoying the natural light, daytime events can come with a smaller price tag, especially if hosted on a Sunday.
“People are most accustomed to a Sunday daytime event,” Janice Carnevale, owner of Bellwether Events, explains. “And there will be no pressure, real or imagined, to also host something in the evening. If you host a Saturday daytime event, sometimes there is a feeling that you must also host something, even if it is casual, in the evening.”
An earlier end time means your guests are more likely to stick around to the end (including the grandparents!) and will travel home more easily. Plus, you’ll have a free evening to do as you please — whether that’s hosting a small gathering of loved ones or soaking in newlywed bliss on your own!
Whether you’re leaning into an outdoor garden vibe or planning a chic brunch reception, there are so many ways to plan a daytime wedding that truly shines. Here are five key considerations as you embark on your journey to the aisle.
Expect an Early Start
With a daytime wedding, you and your wedding party will need an earlier wake-up time to ensure everything flows smoothly. If your ceremony takes place before noon, you may have to rise at dawn to get ready in time for your vows.
Loni Peterson, owner of LP Creative Events notes that hair and makeup require a significant time investment. “You need 45 minutes per service per person and 1 hour per service of the bride,” she explains. “One way to combat this is by looking at hair and makeup vendors that have a team of artists they can send out (instead of a solopreneur).”
To keep things on schedule, kick the day off with a light breakfast spread with plenty of coffee (and perhaps a few mimosas!) to fuel everyone as they get ready.
Not an early-morning person? “If you are looking to avoid that pre-sunrise getting-ready time, opt out of having a wedding party and get ready with your partner,” suggests Sarah Blessinger, owner and lead planner for Kindred Weddings and Events. “This allows you to start your day off with some intentional time to connect before the celebration begins.”
No matter your wake-up time, plan to do some prep work the evening before so you’re ready to go. Lay out your attire, pack your day-of essentials, and turn your phone on do-not-disturb so you can get some deep, uninterrupted sleep!
Watch for the Sun
Sunshine is a driving factor for choosing a daytime wedding, but it’s also something to consider when planning — especially if you’re hosting a summertime celebration when heat is a factor.
“The midday sun could make temperatures rise and cause guests to be uncomfortable if they don’t have a place to seek respite during your reception,” says Colton Simmons, owner of Colton Simmons Photography. “Make sure to have shaded or indoor locations.”
Additionally, “providing cooling or shading elements (misters, parasols, large shade umbrellas) can help to adjust for the daytime conditions,” says Vijay Goel, COO of Bite Catering Couture. A welcome station with cold drinks is also a nice way to greet guests with a refreshing glass of iced tea, lemonade, or water.
The sun’s position can also influence your timeline to account for photography. “Midday sunlight can create harsh shadows,” explains Nicole Chan, owner of Nicole Chan Photo & Video. “Direct sunlight can cause family to squint. Work with your photographer to schedule portrait times during flattering light or in areas with a bit of shade.”
While the sun may present some challenges, they are all easy to work around with proper planning. Enjoy every sunlit moment of the day!
Soften the Decor
Daytime weddings are the perfect opportunity to embrace the natural brightness around you! Julian Ribinik, owner of Julian Ribinik Studios, explains that daylight will “affect colors, the level of drama, and the whole atmosphere.”
“Couples often have a certain vision and then realize that what would look amazing in the darker setting looks out of place or dull if there\'s daylight in the venue,” Ribnik continues. “We recommend having a designer who can advise based on the lighting.”
In other words, leave the dark and moody tones behind and opt for a lighter color palette to reflect the fresh, cheerful energy of the day.
“Flowers with softer colors are perfect for a daytime wedding because they reflect the ambiance of the day,” confirms Joan Wyndrum, founder and owner of Blooms by the Box. “Pastel colors, whites, and soft yellows are romantic.”
Consider using textures and materials that match the airy vibe, like linen tablecloths, light wood accents, and lace accents. However, Wyndrum encourages couples to “avoid materials that are overly shiny or mirror-reflective, as these may clash with the sun.”
Choosing decor elements that feel light and breezy will ensure your wedding has a cohesive design that ties everything together, from your bouquet to your tablescapes.
Serve Lighter Fare
Nobody wants to feel weighed down by a heavy midday meal, so stick with lighter foods to ensure guests feel comfortable throughout the celebration. You don’t want to see anyone sleeping off their lunch during the toasts!
“Lighter, more casual food options are typically more suitable for a daytime reception; for example, brunch-style dishes, small plates, or a grazing table,” suggests Craig Peterman, owner of Craig Peterman Photography & Videography. “You could incorporate fresh fruits, salads, and lighter proteins to match the atmosphere of the day as well.”
Penny Haas, owner of Penny Haas, LLC, adds that interactive food stations work well for daytime menus. “A waffle bar, omelet station, crepes, or various hors d\'oeuvres and canape/tea sandwiches can go over well for daytime weddings,” she says.
As for beverages, you can’t go wrong with classic brunch cocktails! “Mimosas, Aperol Spritz, and Bloody Mary bars are acceptable and pair well with brunch and lunch entrees,” Haas confirms.
Still, couples can typically expect lower alcohol consumption at a daytime wedding than at an event reception. Most people will limit themselves to a few drinks while others abstain entirely. Peterman recommends offering “refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages alongside your cocktails like lemonades, iced teas, and mocktails which will sure to be a refreshing hit for your guests.”
Don’t worry — midday dessert is entirely appropriate! Whether you go with a traditional wedding cake or a spread of tasty treats, you can absolutely finish lunch on a sweet note.
Keep it Low-Key
While evening weddings are known for partying into the wee hours, daytime celebrations are more about mingling and chatting than drinking and dancing.
When planning your big day, “keep in mind the style of the party and the entertainment,” says Emily Sullivan, owner of Unique Weddings and Events. “Daytime weddings tend to have a more casual feel than the big party associated with large stage bands and nighttime events.”
While you may not have a packed dance floor like you would at night, there are plenty of unique and memorable entertainment options to fit the vibe of your sunlit celebration.
“Consider having a live band that plays lighter music; guests will still enjoy rather than rage on the dance floor,” suggests Casey Cannon, owner of EBJ & Company. Or, go for something different! “Dueling pianos or a songwriter\'s round would be a fun alternative for guests to experience without feeling the need to fill a dance floor,” she adds.
You can also include interactive activities for those who don’t feel like dancing during the day. For example, build-your-own drink stations, DIY flower bars, lawn games, and photo booths are all fun ways to keep guests entertained throughout the reception.
Daytime weddings offer a special charm that exudes romance, peace, and togetherness. Though it may require some adjustments, these details will create an experience that feels warm, bright, and welcoming — perfect for your radiant wedding day!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
- Wedding Publicist: OFD Consulting