The Shift from Venue to Home—Is it Worth it?

Originally dreaming of a grand venue wedding only to find yourself leaning towards a cozy at-home reception instead? You’re not alone. The idea of celebrating your big day at home, especially after a beautiful ceremony, can feel just right. And, let’s be honest, the thought of having kids comfortably at home, running free, adds an extra layer of ease to the day. But with this shift comes a whole new set of considerations.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key do’s and don’ts for hosting a home reception with around 100 guests (or fewer). Whether you’re going for an elegant, luxury vibe or something more casual and relaxed, we’ve got tips that’ll help you pull off your dream reception.

Let’s dive in! 🎉

1. Do: Plan Your Space with Intention

Making Your Home Reception-Ready

First things first—space! Hosting at home means you need to be strategic with layout and flow. Do you have enough room to comfortably fit your guest list? Yes, 100 people sounds doable, but you’ll need to factor in everything from seating, dance areas, catering setup, and of course, a spot for the kids.

Trust your instincts when assessing space. Do a walkthrough, imagining your guests mingling. Visualize where key areas like dining, dancing, and drinks will be. 💃🍷

Consider renting a marquee if outdoor space is limited, or if you want to create that luxe, sheltered vibe for your guests.

Don’t forget to think about parking! Will guests be able to park nearby or will you need to arrange transport options? 🚗

Pro Tip: Use different spaces creatively—perhaps the ceremony flows straight into cocktails in the garden, with a beautiful sit-down dinner inside.

2. Don’t: Underestimate the Importance of Professional Help

Where to Invest for a Stress-Free Day

It’s tempting to want to handle everything yourself, but this is your wedding day! Hiring key vendors like a wedding planner, caterer, and photographer can take a huge load off. Yes, it’s at home, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a DIY overload. 🛠️

Luxury doesn’t need to mean over-the-top extravagance—it’s about trusting professionals who’ll bring a sense of elegance and smooth running to your day.

Focus your budget on areas that matter most to you. For example, maybe you splurge on an amazing photographer who can capture those candid, heartwarming moments of your kids running around. 👶💕

Communicate clearly with vendors about the layout and logistics of a home reception. They’ll appreciate the heads-up on things like setup space and electrical outlets. 🔌

Pro Tip: Even a partial planner can help manage the details leading up to the day, so you’re not caught juggling every single task. 🎯

3. Do: Embrace the Charm of a Home Setting

Creating a Warm, Inviting Atmosphere

One of the best things about hosting a reception at home is the personal touch. Your space already tells your story, and you can enhance that with decor that feels genuine to you both. 💖

Focus on timeless elegance with florals, soft lighting, and simple decor that blends seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic.

Use meaningful items—family heirlooms, favorite books, or sentimental photos —to create intimate corners where guests can gather.

Think about the comfort of your guests. Cozy lounge areas with plush seating, blankets for an outdoor setup, and a well-planned seating arrangement can create that perfect blend of casual luxury.

Pro Tip: For an extra touch of magic, consider stringing up fairy lights or having a fire pit as the evening winds down. It’s little touches like this that make guests feel connected and at ease.

4. Don’t: Overlook the Practical Details

Logistics and Comfort Go Hand in Hand

With all the beautiful plans, don’t forget the less glamorous details that make the event run smoothly. 🎉 Hosting at home comes with its quirks, so it’s key to address these early on.

Restrooms: Ensure you have enough facilities, or consider hiring luxury portable restrooms, especially for a larger guest list. 🚽
Kids' Areas: Since one of your reasons for hosting at home is making it easier for the little ones, think about setting up a designated kids' zone with activities to keep them entertained. 🎨🧸
Noise and Curfews: Check local regulations regarding noise levels and curfew hours. You’ll want to avoid any unpleasant surprises mid-reception. 🔊

Pro Tip: Having a point person—a trusted friend or hired coordinator —handle these practicalities during the event means you can relax and enjoy the celebration. 🌟

5. Do: Curate a Menu That Reflects Your Style

Balancing Elegance and Comfort with Your Food Choices

One major perk of an at-home reception is the freedom to curate a menu that perfectly reflects your taste. You’re not tied down to a standard venue package, so let your creativity shine. ✨

Work with your caterer to design a menu that’s both elegant and crowd-pleasing. Think shared platters, grazing tables, or even a luxe barbecue that embraces a relaxed, yet sophisticated vibe.

Don’t forget beverages! Setting up a cocktail station or hiring a bartender can add a touch of fun and luxury.

Plan for all dietary needs. An at-home reception lets you be more flexible in catering to specific requests. 🌟

Pro Tip: Incorporate local flavors—perhaps wines from the Barossa to tie in with your ceremony location or desserts that bring a nostalgic, homely feel to the day.

6. Don’t: Stress About Perfection—Embrace the Moment

Focusing on Connection Over Details

With all the planning, it’s easy to get caught up in perfection. But remember, a home reception is all about celebrating in a space that’s meaningful to you both. Things might not go exactly as planned, but that’s okay. 🌟

Trust that your guests will feel the love and warmth of your day, even if a few details go awry. They’re there to celebrate you.

Embrace the little moments—whether it’s your kids running around barefoot, or your best friends helping set up last-minute decorations. 🛠️🎈

Focus on the joy of the day rather than checking off every box. You’ve got the luxury of being at home—lean into that comfort and connection.

Pro Tip: Allow yourself time to pause and soak in the atmosphere. A home reception naturally lends itself to more intimate, memorable moments. 🌟💖

Conclusion: Your Dream Reception at Home—Is it Easier? Yes!

By shifting your plans to a home reception, you’re opening the door to a celebration that’s uniquely yours—blending luxury with the laid-back vibes of being in your own space. With careful planning and a touch of trust in professionals, your day can be every bit as special as you’ve envisioned. 🌟

The bonus? Having your kids at home, able to comfortably enjoy the festivities, makes everything feel that much more meaningful. Ultimately, your wedding should feel like you—personal, connected, and full of love. 💍💕

How to Host a Home Wedding Reception: A Beginner’s Guide for a Luxurious Yet Laid-back Celebration