What is a wedding breakfast and why is it called that?

Short answer

A wedding breakfast is the formal meal after the ceremony. It is called that because it is the first meal the newly married couple shares, and in the past it often took place after a morning ceremony.

The wedding breakfast is the main sit-down meal that follows the ceremony and usually the drinks reception. Despite the name, it is rarely eaten in the morning. The tradition dates back to a time when weddings were held early in the day, so the first meal together as a married couple was breakfast.

Today, the wedding breakfast can be lunch, afternoon tea or dinner, depending on the time of your ceremony and the style of your day. It is the centrepiece of the reception, where guests are seated together, speeches are often given, and the first formal toasts take place.

The name has stuck even though the timing has changed. You can choose any menu you like, from a traditional roast to a casual sharing feast. The key is that it is a proper meal, served to all guests at once, rather than a buffet or grazing table.

If you are planning your own wedding breakfast, think about dietary needs, seating arrangements and how long you want the meal to take. The meal is a chance for everyone to relax, talk and celebrate after the ceremony.