What your wedding guests really want
Here’s how to plan a memorable wedding reception that your guests will rave about.
When it comes to wedding receptions, your guests aren't just attending for the cake and champagne toasts—they're looking for an experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to wow them with unique details and personal touches that reflect your style as a couple.
Interactive Guest Book
Forget traditional paper guest books. Opt for something fun like a video booth where guests can leave heartfelt messages or a Polaroid station where they snap instant photos and write messages on the prints. This not only gives your guests a fun activity but also provides you with cherished memories.
Welcome Bags
Start the day off by offering personalised welcome bags. Fill them with local goodies, snacks, maybe a drinks token and a heartfelt note. Not only does this show your appreciation, but it also makes your guests feel taken care of from the moment they arrive.
Unique Entertainment
A successful wedding reception always comes down to the entertainment and you want to spread it throughout the day and evening. A harpist adds a romantic touch to any wedding and your guests won't feel forgotten about during the quieter times. Think about hiring a live singer or band as the main act then maybe acrobats or a magician to entertain during a cocktail hour with personalised cocktails named after the couple. For a music twist, consider a live dueling pianos show where guests can request songs.
Food & Drink Stations
Set up multiple food stations such as a taco bar, sushi station, or gourmet mac and cheese bar. For drinks, how about a customisable cocktail bar where guests can create their own concoctions or a gin tasting station? You can also keep guests engaged with interactive food areas such as a make-your-own sundae bar, a live-action crepe station, or a DIY popcorn machine with various toppings. These stations are not only delicious but also great conversation starters. Traditional bars are great, but there's just something about self-serve bottles in buckets of ice. Make a unique visual display out of it with a wooden topper over two barrels.
Comfort is Key
High heels and fancy attire can be exhausting. Offer a “comfy corner” with cosy seating, plush pillows, and even flip flops for guests to change into. If your venue has outdoor space, consider a fire pit with s’mores kits to add a warm and inviting touch.
Instagram Backdrops
Photo backdrops are always a hit, but elevate the experience with themed props that reflect the theme for the wedding, think masquerade masks, vintage hats or oversized sunflowers.
Get Creative
How about making your own painted signs that can be dotted around to add some detail or create a memory wall showing meaningful photos.
Late-Night Bites
As the night progresses, your guests will appreciate a late-night snack. Surprise them with a food truck serving sliders and fries, or pass around mini-milkshakes and cookies. This is not only comforting but also a much-needed energy boost.
Thoughtful Favours
Give your guests something memorable to take home. Personalised items such as mini succulents, custom candles, or locally sourced honey make thoughtful, lasting gifts
Fun & Games
Plan activities that encourage interaction and fun with things going on in different areas. Lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga, a caricature artist in the main room, and a trivia game about the bride and groom keeping guests entertained in the bar area.
End on a High
Don't let the day fizzle out, you need a finale that draws the day to close perfectly and the best way to do this is with a spectacular fireworks display.
