Seated Dining vs. Cocktail Reception: Which is Right for Your Event In Las Vegas?

There are two choices to consider when planning a wedding reception event in Las Vegas: seated dining or a cocktail reception. Both these options have pros and cons, which we’ll discuss in this post to help you determine which format best suits your event. You’ll want an event venue that makes you and your guests feel comfortable with a delicious banquet of food in an inviting atmosphere. We think you’ll find that at our modern establishment.

We invite you to try Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant for our premier seafood and more on the Vegas Strip.

How many guests will you host At Your Event In Las Vegas?

First, you’ll want to decide how many people will be attending the wedding reception so you can find a Las Vegas event space to fit the desired number of guests. When searching for event venues in Las Vegas, consider Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant. We have a stylish atmosphere with a polished setting perfect for entertaining your wedding reception guests:

• Our seated dining experiences can fit 10-65 people maximum
• Our standing-style cocktail reception can accommodate 20-120 people maximum
• You can also do a buyout of our venue should you require more space

Of all the party venues in Las Vegas, our restaurant location inside Resorts World is ideal for holding an intimate group event. Our expertise in fine dining includes shareable dishes, small plates, and a healthy selection of seafood and caviar for most palates. Our amazing menu has something for everyone. 

What are the differences between the two dining options?

Gathering family and friends together to help celebrate your special day carries many details to get the right feel and presentation you want for your guests. The type of food and drink served is a significant component of the whole event. Plus, you want your guests to socialize and enjoy the day’s celebratory ambiance comfortably. 

Pros and cons of a cocktail reception

Generally, guests will be standing, though some seating will be available in a relaxed setting. It’s similar to a cocktail party in which guests mingle freely. They can choose delicious finger foods at a buffet table or from various food stations. You can strategically place cocktail tables in the room, perhaps a mix of low tables and 42” high tops, for people to set down their drinks and plates. There can be an open area for dancing. The energy levels of younger guests may enjoy the ability to move freely and dance when the mood is right.

Sometimes, when standing, it can be difficult to see who makes a toast, so guests could move around more to get a glimpse. Also, people tend to drink more at cocktail parties, so alcohol costs could go up. And older generations might feel uncomfortable with too much standing. They may be used to traditional wedding reception seating arrangements. 

Pros and cons of seated dining

A sit-down dinner is a traditional way to serve your guests. It has a more formal feel in that people will have their seats decided ahead of time with place cards. The menu can either be buffet style or a multi-course plated meal. Everyone will be served at the same time by the waitstaff. Celebratory toasts and speeches can be made between courses, with everyone able to see and hear the speaker. 

Depending on how large the group is, there could be a need for more waitstaff, and it could contribute to more foot traffic as guests get up and try to mingle. Guests might not like your personal food choices for the menu, leaving food untouched on their plates. However, with our friendly, attentive service, the plates can be removed from the table so guests can concentrate on socializing.

Provide lounge areas for guests to relax

After the dinner reception, not all guests will want to dance. Some might enjoy the rest of the evening by relaxing in a lounge area set up for guests. Depending on the size of the event, you could have a few small cozy sofas and chairs with footstools placed conveniently for guests to enjoy. There’s no rush to leave the event with such comfort touches, allowing guests more time to get to know one another and have a good time.

Additional details to consider about the venue event

By contacting one of our event coordinators, you can get an idea of what to expect regarding cost and availability. Here’s a quick list of items to consider when exploring event venues:

• Walk-through: Schedule a walk-through to help you get a feel for the place
• Restaurant floor plan: The table set up during regular business hours is not necessarily what you’ll get with your proposed event
• Cake/dessert: Ask if they offer cake-cutting services and extra room in the refrigerator
• Alcohol and cocktails: Open bar, table wine, or individual tabs? 
• Music/sound system: Use the restaurant system or hire a DJ? Are there noise restrictions? 
• Bathrooms: There should be at least one stall per 25 people and a baby changing station. You can also make a restroom gender-neutral with a sign if necessary.

Create beautiful, lasting memories to share

One of the best things about a restaurant wedding reception is that it immediately makes things intimate and allows you to really connect with everyone there! 

At a restaurant, you can go back to sit at ‘your table’ and relive the magic over and over again. You can also enjoy the food you loved on your special day in the space where you shared your first moments as a married couple whenever you want!

Choose an elegant wedding reception at Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant

Whatever wedding reception style you choose, you’ll get an elegant event at Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant. Your day is sure to be exceptional with a beautiful group dining experience thanks to our award-winning Australian chef, Shaun Hergatt. His tantalizing culinary recipes will awe the crowd with dishes designed for the most discerning restaurant-goers. See what our patrons have to say on Yelp and TripAdvisor. 

Discover what our exquisite seafood menu is all about when you come join us for dinner. Get a feel for our restaurant while you enjoy a sumptuous meal when starting to plan your group event in Las Vegas.