e-parties in NYC

Where i am from people just don't have them. we went to 4 of them up here when our friends were first engaged. they were very nice, it was sit down plated meal ect.

Now some of the girls on here have super elaborate e-parties with place cards, cake cutting, fancy centerpieces, first dances, ect.

What is the difference between this and a wedding reception. It's like having two receptions.