We are getting married in October in a private ceremony in the Ozark Mountains with just the 2 of us. We are going to have a reception the following weekend in our hometown. We will be doing all of the traditional reception events, i.e cake, DJ, and I will wear my dress. We both want to serve beer and wine but are concerned with the legal issues. No one under age will be there. But in looking at laws in Arkansas, if someone leaves the reception and is involved in an accident, we can be held liable by the third party involved if it is the fault of the person(s) in attendance because we provided the alcohol. We want to drink and want our friends and family to able to drink as well. I have read that BYOB is not etiquette so what can we do other than not serve alcohol? Not that it is that important but I would like to drink that night and so would our friends and family! PLEASE HELP!!!
tp
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Jul 4, 2008, 8:36 PM
Post #2 of 3
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Re: alcohol and reception legal concerns
[In reply to]
This is a very specific legal question since all states have their own laws regarding alcohol and liability. You should check with a local attorney. However, as you noted, it would not be proper for you to ask your guests to bring any portion of the party, including the drinks. So, if your attorney says that you are right, and alcohol should not be served, then please follow his/her direction. Top Wedding Questions Forum Moderator - "Write your sorrows in the sand, your blessings in stone".
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Jul 5, 2008, 3:40 PM
Post #3 of 3
(275 views)
Re: alcohol and reception legal concerns
[In reply to]
You could host your party during a time when alcohol is not expected, as host usually provide alcohol and guests expect it at certain times of day. Another option would be to ask your family and close friends to volunteer to be designated drivers. One family I know hired a limo for the evening. The driver drove anyone home who had been drinking. That is a wonderful option. Rebecca Black, Etiquette Now
alcohol and reception legal concerns
