Your wedding day is a celebration of love and the beginning of a new chapter in your life. The wedding reception is an opportunity to create lasting memories for you and your guests.
But how do you stand out from the crowd? How do you offer something that will stay in the memories of your nearest and dearest for years to come? Better still, how do you accomplish this feat without breaking the bank?
The truth is, there are many ways to create the fun, unforgettable kind of celebration you’ve always dreamed of. You just have to be willing to plan ahead, be creative – and think outside the box. If you remember nothing else, remember this: there are no rules when it comes to weddings – well, apart from the legal aspects of the ceremony – there are no rules. It’s your day, so ensure you do things your way, in a means that truly reflects you as a couple.
Here are 10 ways to wow your guests at your wedding reception and make your special day truly unforgettable
10 ways to wow at your reception
1. Signature Cocktails
Create a signature cocktail that reflects your tastes and preferences or even your wedding theme. Whether it’s a classic cocktail with a unique twist or a drink inspired by your favourite memory as a couple, serving signature cocktails adds a personal touch to your reception and gives your guests something to talk about.
Give your drink a quirky name and watch your guests’ eyes light up with excitement. Here are some fun ideas for inspiration:
- Spicy Cucumber
- Margarita
- Queen of Flowers
- Blood Orange Mule
- Rum Punch
- Love Potion
10 ways to wow at your reception
2. Surprise Entertainment
Surprise your loved ones with unexpected entertainment acts to add an element of excitement to your reception. This surprise could include a dance performance, a magician or a singer.
10 ways to wow at your reception
3. Unique Reception Venue
Choose a venue that reflects your personality and style as a couple. A less traditional venue can make the big day more exciting and the experience more personal. Here are some ideas if you want to add a more modern touch to the event:
- The beach
- A barn
- A garden
- A historic mansion
- A castle
- A park
- A city rooftop
- A vineyard
- Your backyard
- A botanical garden
10 ways to wow at your reception
4. A DIY Food Station
Transform your wedding reception into a culinary adventure by adding a fun and interactive food station. For example, consider setting up a build-your-own taco bar where guests can customise their tacos with a variety of fresh ingredients. From seasoned proteins like grilled chicken, beef, fish or tofu to an assortment of salsa, sour cream, guacamole, cheese and vibrant veg, this station provides a casual dining experience.
This approach is a wonderful opportunity to unwind and for guests to mingle. Other interactive dining options include:
- Build-your-own burger bar
- Chocolate fountains
- Candy buffets
- Donut walls
- Macaron tower
- Pizza station
10 ways to wow at your reception
5. A Photo Booth
Elevate the entertainment at your reception with the addition of a photo booth. A well-themed photo booth is an excellent source of entertainment, creating lasting memories for both you and your guests.
Encourage creativity by providing a variety of props, from quirky hats to playful signs, allowing guests to express their personalities and share lighthearted moments. The instant prints become fun souvenirs for guests to take home.
10 ways to wow at your reception
6. Mood Lighting
The lighting in your venue can make any space dreamy and enchanting. Twinkle lights, paper lanterns and candles emit soft, warm lighting perfect for romantic photos. Additionally, using candles can be an eco-friendly option as they save on electricity.
10 ways to wow at your reception
7. Live Music
While you might want a DJ for the dance portion of the night, live music can be a special way to kick off the reception. You could choose a string quartet for a regal vibe, or an acoustic band that covers your favourite songs. Live music is a perfect way to entertain your guests before dinner and get people in the mood to party.
10 ways to wow at your reception
8. Memorable Keepsakes
Sending your guests home with thoughtful and memorable favours is a wonderful way to express gratitude for their presence on your special day. Consider choosing favours that reflect your personality as a couple or tie into the theme of your wedding.
Whether it’s personalised keepsakes like engraved keychains or custom-made candles, or edible treats like artisan chocolates or jars of local honey, the key is to offer something special and meaningful. By selecting mementos that resonate with your relationship, you create a lasting impression and leave your guests with a wonderful reminder of the special celebration.
10 ways to wow at your reception
9. Interactive Games
Infuse an extra dose of joy by adding interactive games that engage and entertain your guests. Whether it’s a lighthearted lawn game like cornhole or giant Jenga for an outdoor celebration, or elegant table games like trivia for an indoor affair, incorporating games adds an element of fun and breaks the ice among guests.
Photo scavenger hunts or wedding-themed bingo can be delightful additions that encourage interaction and create memorable moments. If you have kids attending your big day, you can set up a separate games section for the little ones, making sure they’re entertained.
10 ways to wow at your reception
10. A Creative Guestbook
Elevate the traditional guestbook by infusing creativity and personalisation, turning it into a cherished keepsake that captures your special day. Consider alternatives like a fingerprint tree, where guests stamp their fingerprints as leaves on a tree, creating a stunning piece of art.
Alternatively, a “message in a bottle” concept allows guests to write their well wishes on small scrolls and place them inside a decorative bottle for you to discover later. For a tech-savvy twist, set up a digital guestbook with a photo booth where guests can leave video messages or capture snapshots. By thinking outside the box, you invite your guests to contribute to a piece of art that can earn a place in your home.
Leave Your Guests in Awe
Your wedding reception is an opportunity to create a magical experience for everyone involved. By using some of these activities to wow your guests, you’ll ensure your wedding day is an unforgettable celebration filled with love and joy.
Author bio: Cora Gold is a wedding writer and editor of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. Follow Cora on Pinterest, LinkedIn and Twitter.
