When most of us receive a wedding invite, we're usually pumped to attend, but typically we all don't have high expectations for the reception, especially if you're not into dancing. If you're in the middle of planning your wedding, remember that the reception is where your guests get to see your personality, but you also have the opportunity to really wow them with entertainment that they'll truly enjoy. Try surprising your guests with unique wedding reception ideas and experiences they've never had at a wedding before. Here a few ideas that may work best for your guests.
Passive Entertainment
DJ/Emcee (MUST HAVE regardless IOP!)
We considered having a family member play a Spotify playlist through the venue's sound system for about one minute. And then we quickly realized that we needed a professional to not only mix music, but most importantly, emcee so our guests knew what was happening. Make sure your DJ is familiar with your favorite genre of music. You don't want them coming up to you midway during the reception saying they've run out of the songlist you sent them.
Your Favorite Sports Mascot
I think this may apply to a select few couples, but when you're die hard fans most likely your guests will want photo ops with also their favorite mascot.
Dancers
This generally covers a wide array of dancers. You could have a flash mob out of nowhere or a more refined ballet type performance or even fire dancers.
Comedian
One of our couples decided to have a comedian perform a routine during their cocktail hour. The people seemed to respond positively to his added presence.
Aerialists
The stunts they perform are amazing and sure to wow your guests. It's also interesting to have people flying across the ceiling while you enjoy your favorite cocktail.
Live Band
If you pick the right band this can go very well for your reception. Consider the band being able to play a range of songs in various genres or simply fit within the style of music you prefer.
Flowerina
Jewel the Ballerina is based out of Atlanta, GA. She is a classically trained ballerina who performs down the ceremony aisle delivery sprinkles of flower petals from her hands along the way. Highly recommend!
Interactive Entertainment
Dance Competition Between Guests
For our wedding, we made this happen by creating a competition which included a dance-off that our participants didn't know about until the time came for them to compete. The result was extremely entertaining and was fun for everyone.
Silent Rave
This is pretty trendy in most places, especially at venues whose noise ordinances prevent loud noises after a certain evening hour. This would also be great if you wanted to specialize your dance music to prevent older nay-sayers for bad mouthing your song selections.
Foam Party Dance Floor
Bring the music festival/disco/rave party to your wedding with this one. Although, if you decide to go there, be sure it's later in the evening and people can change their clothes.
Caricature Artist
Who doesn't want a cartoon superhero version of themselves? Some artists also provide the digital files for guests to immediately share on their socials.
Wedding Party Choreographed Dance Routine
This could be as serious or hilarious as you want to make it. It also forces your wedding party to get to know each other before your wedding which will just make your group even more cohesive and fun on the day of your wedding.
Arcade Games
Much of our culture is going 80's/90's retro, so what better way than to add old school arcade systems at your reception? With this idea, you could either hire a company to bring in stand alone arcade systems or hire a mobile gaming truck.
Carnival Games (high-striker)
Although there are several games that exist under the carnival category, one of my faves for this would be the high-striker. Who doesn't want to test their partners strength by smashing a puck with a mallet!?
Reception Table Games
This could include things like crossword puzzles about the bride and groom, scavenger hunts, i-spy games, or have each table top covered with draw-able material and have your guests draw all over each table.
Food Stations
From food trucks, to cotton candy machines, taco stations, crepe makers, coffee carts, even do-it-yourself ice cream machines; these stations are fun for guests but also keep them happy enough to stay the whole night.
Yard games
If your outdoor venue/weather permits you could set up areas for croquet, bocce ball, ladder golf, or badminton.
Unique Sign-in Table
Create an artistic expression for your guest sign-in table with a paintable canvas or sketch book. You could also incorporate how you met as a couple and have your guests sign something that represents you both, such as post cards depicting the places you've been or will travel together. Another example comes from one of our couples who met playing kickball so all their guests signed their kickball. Or you could go for signed Polaroids to remember your guests even more so from the day!
Karaoke
Take a small portion of your DJ dance floor time and pause for wedding guest karaoke time. Or if you want the dance floor to stay open just move the karaoke to another space at the venue.
Second-Line
Your wedding doesn't have to happen in New Orleans for this amazing jazz street band phenomenon to occur on your day. Grab your handkerchiefs and umbrellas and allow the talents of a brass band to bring you and your guests from the ceremony into the reception!
Photo booth
There are several indoor options from the 360 degree, the GIF maker, selfie mirror, roaming, etc. Or you can opt for an old school camper or Camper-van for your guests to enjoy hang out in.
Whatever you decide, don't be conventional. The traditional wedding reception for most guests is a drag. Give them something to remember!
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