I get the part where people have to pay for their own drinks but are you having any food there-is that what you mean by free reception?
He said “free reception venue.” The venue is the place they’re holding it. Our son’s Eagle Scout ceremony had a free venue: the dining hall at our council’s campsite. Food and beverages were paid for by the hosts, us.
Felicitations, Old Sarge, I hope you and the lady will enjoy the rest of your lives together. Der Prinz and I had a free wedding venue - the chapel at Randolph Air Force Base - and a reasonably priced reception at the Officers’ Club.
Well, the reception hall is free because we’re both veterans. Catering is still being negotiated. And the reception will most likely be family-only, nice and small.