What Is a Reception? A Guide and How It Differs from a Drinks Party
A reception often gets mentioned in the same breath as a drinks party or a walking dinner, but what actually sets it apart isn't always clear, even to the client booking it. Yet the type of reception shapes a lot of what you need to arrange in canapes, drinks and service. In this article we explain what a reception involves, and how it compares to other concepts.
What is a reception, exactly?
A reception is a standing gathering built around a specific occasion, such as an anniversary, an opening, a farewell, or congratulations after a wedding. Guests arrive and leave at times that suit them, there's no fixed eating moment, and the focus is on greeting and congratulating each other over a drink and a canape. A reception usually runs shorter than a drinks party or evening event, typically one to two hours.
The difference from a drinks party and walking dinner
A drinks party is looser in structure and often runs longer, without needing a specific occasion behind it. With a walking dinner, the canapes replace a full main menu, spread across several courses and serving points. At a reception the food is usually more limited: small canapes that accompany the drinks, not meant to replace a meal.
When you cater a reception
Receptions come up regularly around corporate anniversaries, the opening of a new site, retirement, or congratulations after a birth or wedding. Since guests arriving and leaving is less predictable than at a dinner, you usually work with canapes that are easy to top up or remake during the reception, rather than setting everything out at once. See also catering concepts explained for how a reception compares to the other concepts you offer as a caterer.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a reception usually last?
Usually between one and two hours. Guests tend to arrive and leave whenever suits them, unlike a drinks party or evening event that runs longer.
How many canapes do I plan per guest at a reception?
Plan for fewer than a full walking dinner, since the canapes mainly accompany the drinks rather than replacing a meal. Four to six small canapes per guest is a solid starting point for most receptions.
Is a reception the same as a drinks party?
Not quite. A reception is tied to a specific occasion and usually runs shorter, while a drinks party is looser in structure and often runs longer.
Can I top up food during a reception?
Yes, that's actually standard at a reception, since guests arrive at staggered times. Work with canapes you can remake or top up quickly, rather than setting everything out at once.
Catering receptions regularly alongside other concepts? Keep quantities and staff organised per event with Catermonkey.
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