^{Image Courtesy of Marielle Hayes Photography}

LDS Receptions Come in All Shapes and Sizes

Every wedding is a celebration—but for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that celebration often includes more than just the sealing day. Receptions and open houses give friends and family the chance to gather, offer congratulations, and honor the beginning of your eternal journey together.

Whether it’s elegant or casual, catered or DIY, your LDS wedding reception can be as unique as you are. Let’s walk through the most important things to consider—because planning the party shouldn’t steal the joy from the purpose.

What’s the Difference Between a Reception and an Open House?

In many LDS weddings, there’s not just one post-wedding celebration. Some couples host a formal reception right after the ceremony, while others opt for a more casual open house—or even a combination of both.

Sometimes it’s about timing (after the honeymoon), sometimes it’s about geography (one event for each side of the family), and sometimes it’s simply a personal preference. There’s no “one right way”—only what’s right for you and your people.

Start with the Basics: What Do You Want?

Before the cake tasting and centerpiece debates, start with a simple list:

• Do you picture an afternoon mingle or an evening dinner and dance?

• Will there be a meal or just light refreshments?

• Live band, DJ, or your brother’s wedding playlist? (Hey, it happens!)

And most importantly… what fits your budget, your timeline, and your comfort level?

LDS Receptions Come in All Shapes and Sizes

One of the beautiful things about LDS wedding receptions is how flexible they can be. Some are held in cultural halls and decorated with family love and elbow grease. Others are hosted in ballrooms or lush gardens.

Both can be beautiful. Both are valid. Your choices are guided by:

• Your budget

• Location and guest access

• Time of day and formality

• Guest count

• Personal and family preferences

Let’s look at those one by one…

1. Budget (The Real Guest at Every Wedding)

Receptions can get pricey fast—especially with a growing guest list. Whether you’re going all-out or keeping it simple, decide on a realistic budget first. Communicate clearly with family about who’s paying for what, and remember: sometimes tradition (like the bride’s family footing the bill) gives way to modern realities.

DIY touches can save money and add heart, but they also require time and help. Know your limits, and don’t be afraid to ask for support.

2. Location, Location… Logistics

Try to keep your reception close to your ceremony—or at least convenient for guests. For temple sealings, remember that not all guests will attend the ceremony, so give them an easy and inviting way to join the celebration afterward.

Out-of-town guests? Consider accommodations or travel time, especially if you’re hosting multiple events.

3. Formal or Casual?

Evening receptions tend to be more formal (and often include dinner and dancing), while afternoon open houses lean casual with light refreshments and relaxed mingling.

Of course, your temple sealing will be formal—but your celebration doesn’t have to be. Let the spirit of your relationship guide the tone.

4. Guest List Size

Your guest list affects everything—from venue to food to cost. If you’re dreaming of an intimate backyard celebration, that might mean scaling back on invites. On the other hand, if you have a large, spread-out family, two open houses might be just the solution.

Always match your venue to your guest count. A giant ballroom can feel awkward for 30 people, and a small room might burst at the seams with 300.

5. Personal Preference Matters Most

You don’t have to invite Great-Aunt Someone-You’ve-Never-Met just because someone says you should. And you don’t need an elaborate 5-tier cake unless that’s what you want.

Still, if parents or others are contributing financially, they should have a seat at the table. Be prayerful, respectful, and willing to compromise where it matters—just don’t lose your peace over napkin colors or frosting styles.

A Gentle Reminder

You’re not planning a performance. You’re planning a joyful gathering to celebrate your eternal marriage. When the day comes...
no one will remember if your punch was pink or peach—they’ll remember how they felt. So choose the details that make you smile, and let go of the rest.