14th May Wedding - reception

I think you are understanding the rules better than the pubs you have reached out to. The only licence needed for a wedding is to hold the ceremony so venues do not have such a thing as "reception licences. I am pretty sure the two families part of the rules will not effect weddings as it never has. The rules say

At this point, funerals can continue to proceed with up to 30 attendees. Weddings, receptions, and commemorative events including wakes will be able to take place with up to 15 attendees (in premises that are permitted to open).

So on one hand they specifically mention that receptions can go ahead but the only hospitality allowed at that time is outside. Not sure if a marquee with just a roof and no sides would count as outside.

GOV info here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-response-spring-2021/covid-19-response-spring-2021

It sure is a minefield isn't it? Bill's attachment is really the best source of information - this is the relevant bit I think the pubs are quoting you (Step 2, April 12th)

Social contact rules in England will not change further at this point. Outdoor gatherings must still be limited to 6 people or 2 households as in Step 1, and no indoor mixing will be allowed unless otherwise exempt.

Kay