How to Make Your Wedding Reception FUN!

As wedding planners, we never get tired of talking about and planning reception designs. Mood boards and tablescapes are everyday talk for us! I mean, who doesn’t want to strive for their dream Pinterest-esque wedding? Aside from the visuals, we always plan with our clients on how to make their reception the best party for themselves and their guests. There are so many ways to make your wedding reception truly fun! Today, we are sharing some of our favorite tips to elevate your wedding reception and create memories to last a lifetime.

Bride and groom dancing with glow sticks  at fun wedding reception
Photography: Toni G Photo // Planning: Your Inspired Event // Venue: Private Estate

Consider Hiring a Live Band

If you know you want to dance the night away, consider hiring a live band. The unique sound and entertainment will bring everybody to the dance floor! Depending on the type of band you book, they might even play their original music. This is perfect for those who want to skip the mainstream songs but still want upbeat music at their wedding. So, concert and music connoisseurs, this one is for you!

Even if you would like to opt-out of a live band, speak with your wedding planner about their DJ recommendations. They will be able to refer you to a DJ that can match your personality as a couple. Don’t skip out on hiring professionals to handle this piece of your wedding. This will be a major aspect to keep the reception flowing effortlessly. Remember, a DJ or live band for weddings will often offer other services such as a mic and sound for speeches and toasts.

Bride and groom first dance at outdoor wedding
Planning & Design: Your Inspired Event // Photography: Krizel Photography // Florals: Simply Flowers // Lighting: Light Up The Walls // Rentals: Expo Party Rentals // Stationery: Trademark Inspired

Serve Late Night Snacks

A few hours can pass between the last bite of dinner and the rest of the night at your reception. One of our favorite reception features that remains a crowd-pleaser is to serve last night snacks. Book a couple of local food trucks or speak with your caterer about some more snack options. Choose smaller items that guests can hold while walking around and heading to the dance floor. Something simple like doughnuts and coffee can go a long way.

Cut Down on the Programming

If you are reviewing all of the ‘traditional’ aspects of a wedding day timeline and feel overwhelmed, don’t feel pressure to include everything. Your guests won’t mind or notice if you decide to skip the bouquet and garter toss or cake cutting. Try to form your wedding timeline in a way that doesn’t take breaks in the party too often. You can still sneak off and grab a photo by the cake with just you and your spouse. It’s your day so do what you want!

Incorporate Your Guests

A question we get asked often is, “How can we make our guests feel more involved in the wedding?” Offer other activities like a photo booth or interactive guest book for your guests. You can even have their favors pre-set at the tables as a fun surprise after the ceremony. Your guests will love it!

Guests laughing at wedding reception and toasting
Planning & Design: Your Inspired Event // Photography: Krizel Photography // Florals: Simply Flowers // Lighting: Light Up The Walls // Rentals: Expo Party Rentals // Stationery: Trademark Inspired

Go Back to Basics

Regardless of the entertainment or extra experiences, your guests won’t be able to have fun unless their basic needs are met and cared for. So, make sure to plan for how to bar and bathroom lines will be managed. Discuss with your venue about maintaining a comfortable temperature. You might need to rent fans or heaters depending on the weather if a portion of your wedding is outdoors! Also, while late-night snacks are great later on, make sure your guests have enough to eat to begin with. A fun wedding reception means planning for this from the start of the day. Handle these basics and then choose how you would like to expand and personalize your reception.

Looking for more wedding planning tips? Find out why you need to hire a wedding planner next!

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