Planning A Mormon Wedding Reception: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a Mormon wedding can be a complicated affair, with many elements to consider and a lot of people involved. From sending out invitations to deciding on food and photography, there's a lot to think about. It's important to focus on what really matters to you and your future spouse, whether that's serving great food or having lots of pictures to remember the day. You might also want to consider the dress code for your guests, with modesty being a key consideration for Mormon wedding attire.

Food and drink

When it comes to the food itself, almost anything can be made into a tasty bite-sized treat, from the main course to dessert. Some ideas for mini wedding reception foods include mini burgers, mini crab cakes, cocktail weenies, red potatoes, baby carrots or other veggies, Jell-o cubes, or pizzas made on mini bagels.

Of course, the food and drink at your Mormon wedding reception should ultimately reflect your personal style and preferences. Whether you opt for a large party or an intimate gathering, there are plenty of ways to make the food and drink memorable and enjoyable for you and your guests.

Photography

If you're planning a Mormon wedding, it's important to remember that things can and will go wrong. You might get soaked by sprinklers during your photos, or you might be late to your own reception because of traffic. But don't worry, a good photographer will be able to capture the day regardless of any mishaps.

When it comes to choosing a photographer, it's important to find someone who understands the importance of the day and can capture the unique aspects of a Mormon wedding. They should be familiar with the traditions and customs, and be able to work discreetly and respectfully.

It's also a good idea to create a shot list with your photographer, so you can be sure to get all the photos you want. This might include photos of the ring ceremony, the reception, and any other important moments. You might also want to consider doing a 'first look' photo shoot before the ceremony, to capture the moment you and your spouse see each other for the first time.

Invitations

When it comes to invitations, it's important to give your guests plenty of advance notice. It's recommended that you send out your invitations two months in advance. This is because a lot of the elements of a Mormon wedding can take weeks or even months to plan.

When it comes to the invitations themselves, it's important to include all the necessary information, such as the date, time, and location of the wedding and reception. You may also want to include information about the dress code, especially if you are expecting guests who are not familiar with Mormon wedding traditions.

It's also a good idea to include a way for guests to RSVP, such as a phone number or email address. This will help you keep track of how many guests to expect and plan accordingly.

Finally, don't forget to proofread your invitations before sending them out. Check for any spelling or grammar mistakes, and make sure all the information is correct.

Dress code

When it comes to the dress code for a Mormon wedding, it's best to adhere to the modesty standards that LDS members will be following. This means long or short sleeves, higher necklines and midi- or maxi-length dresses for women, and a suit and tie for men. While dress codes are not strictly enforced at Mormon events, it's best to avoid wearing anything too revealing.

For men, a suit and tie is always a safe bet for nearly any type of wedding. However, it's also acceptable to dress it down for LDS wedding receptions with an open collar or polo shirt.

Women should opt for longer dresses or skirts, with sleeves and higher necklines.

It's important to remember that Mormon weddings are important events, especially when you're planning a marriage for time and all eternity. So, while things may go wrong, it's a good idea to spend time planning your outfit in advance to ensure you're dressed appropriately for the occasion.

Music

There are no strict rules about the type of music that should be played at a Mormon wedding reception, but it's important to screen songs for profanity. The most typical genres for dinner music are easy listening and jazz, but current pop music can also be played if it's done right.

• Hymns played on piano from the LDS hymnbook
• Ave Maria by Schubert
• Canon in D by Pachebel
• Adagio from Sonata in E-Flat by Mozart
• Greensleeves
• Water Music by Handel
• La Traviata by Verdi
• La Serenissima by Loreena McKennitt
• Wedding March from a Midsummer Night’s Dream (Opus 61)
• Rondeau – Masterpiece Theater Theme by Mouret
• Trumpet in D by Purcell
• La Primavera Allegro by Vivaldi
• I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown
• This Will Be (an Everlasting Love) by Natalie Cole
• Then He Kissed Me by the Crystals
• Hallelujah Chorus by Handel

Frequently asked questions