Begin with a bang, not a whimper! Champagne and/or sparkling wine and elegant hors d'oeuvres will always be good starters, unless, of course, the theme dictates otherwise. The Reception is customarily 30 to 45 minutes long -- long enough to set a tone of conviviality, allow members to become reacquainted, introduce guests to members but not so long that palates will be over-indulged and, therefore, dulled. A reception is just that: a social function which serves as time for receiving and welcoming guests. Light offerings of food and drink during this gathering time are traditionally considered the signs of hospitality. It is preliminary to the dinner, which is the central focus of the evening.