In lieu of favors, make a donation in your guests' names; leave an explanatory card on each dinner table. From the tarantella (Italian) to the money dance (Cuba), ethnic jigs give a party a distinctive flavor. Lux Restroom Trailers. A dramatic collection of king protea blooms were tied together with an embroidered black-and-white ribbon. Be sure your guests let loose and truly enjoy your wedding with these entertaining ideas straight from the pros! Hannah writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, with a focus on real wedding coverage. So if you're searching for amazing wedding entertainment ideas that'll really impress your guests, we've got you covered. The brand's founder Nicole Wegman gives us the inside scoop on these dazzling sparklers. Another guest book idea: Leave a glass bowl with cards (or postcards, if youre a wanderlust couple) and pens beside it, with a note asking guests to contribute a favorite memory of you or your partner, a bucket list idea, or a piece of marriage advice. Take what you love about karaoke and throw out what you hate, says Jeremy Davis of Equinox Orchestra, who offers this as a service to their couples. Stay in touch with your inner child by having amusement park rides as your wedding reception entertainment. As a sentimental touch, the words embroidered on the ribbon were taken from notes from the bride's grandmothers. 83 Wedding Reception Ideas To Make It A Day To Remember What's old is new again. Invite an aerialist to perform during cocktail hour. If its cold, offer blankets for them to snuggle in. Compile all the song requests into a playlist and give it to your DJ for a variety of jams that guests will enjoy. Allow a nosegay or Biedermeier bouquet to be the focal point of your wedding day look as you make your way down the aisle. We're loving this custom neon sign from Neon Poodle, complete with the couple's last name. Guide Guests Through a Wine or Spirits Tasting, Hire Aerialists, Mermaids, and Interactive Performers, 11 Creative Ways to Encourage Social Distancing at a Wedding. Do you love getting tattoos and want to share that passion with your loved ones? Set up a mini photo studio at the reception for guests to ham it up in front of the camera. Place the artist in an area where they have a good view of the room, but where guests can also observe. Pli, chass, jet, repeat. Craspedia, also known as billy ball, is a fun spherical flower that's great if you're looking for retro vibes. Wooden dance floor. Ice, ice babythis is one cool wedding cake. Guests at this nautical wedding were treated to entertainment by performers dressed as mermaids. ), Wedding Cake Alternatives for the Couple Who Just Doesn't Like Cake, How to Preserve the Top Tier of Your Wedding Cake. Sign up on The Knot to reach more couples and book more weddings! "Ever since the boom of Pinterest, photos of mass taper candles have been in inspiration folders across the board. A roundup of unique and cool wedding ideas would not be complete without some fresh bar service and mixology inspiration. What's more, the bride DIYed the entire arrangement herself. This couple's escort cards took the form of little tags adhered to mini bottles of olive oil and were displayed in nooks in a Santorini-worth white wall. You can sync this to your photo booth so that couples can sip their latest poseafter an Instagram post, of course. She recommends offering not one but two photo booth options in which guests can memorialize the event. How Big Does Your Wedding Cake Really Need to Be? From Pinterest-worthy doughnut walls to overused mason jars, it's the unique (less-done) ideas for weddings that leave a lasting impression. New number, who dis? There are plenty of unconventional activities you can choose from. Instead, this couple had everyone's name laser cut in vinyl and attached to the back of their respective chairs. 58 Summer Wedding Ideas We Can't Get Enough Of, 50 Sweet Spring Wedding Ideas for Our Favorite Season, 15 Ways to Prioritize Your Guests When Wedding Planning, 30 Small Wedding Ideas for an Intimate Affair, 40 Backyard Wedding Ideas That Are Anything But Casual, The Ultimate Wedding-Planning Checklist and Timeline, 17 Unique Wedding Bar Sign Ideas to Display Your Drinks in Style, 57 Vintage Wedding Ideas for a Timeless Look, Pinterest Reveals the Wedding Trends You'll See Everywhere in 2023, Celebrate Your Heritage With Your Wedding Cake, Find Ways to Honor Your Family's Heritage, Or Surprise Them With Treats in Their Hotel Rooms, Hand Out a Tribute Bouquet to Someone Special, 17 Classic Wedding Ideas You'll Still Love 20 Years From Now. When coming up with unique wedding decoration ideas, this couple took a stroll down memory lane. Beyond the dcor, you could also take it a step further by centering your wedding theme around your birthstoneeverything from invitations to the frosting on your wedding cake. 23 Wedding Themes: Wedding Editor Curated to Inspire All Couples - The Knot What once was a post-ceremony gathering with finger foods and punch, transformed into a four-hour dinner party, and is . Feeling woodsy? Most likely, your wedding planner has dozens of recommendations that'll fit what you and your partner want for your reception. recalls the bride, Make way for the Sir Elton John. Liven up your wedding reception with a drag performance. You can even have your favorite queen officiate your ceremony. You don't have to be an astrology expert to enjoy an aura reading. 01 of 60 Arrange Your Own Bouquets Caroline Yoon; Event Planning by Emily Coyne Events; Floral Design by Rion Designs Bouquet arrangements should come from the heart and speak to who you are as an. You can either have dancing plus your wedding entertainment or skip dancing altogether. This guest book idea will turn into a fun keepsake you can display in your newlywed home, alongside other sports paraphernalia. Sparklers inside? No matter where you stand on the Shake Shack vs. In-N-Out debate, a pitstop for tasty burgers is never a bad idea. Want to create an unusual color scheme? Spin the Wheel. Ideas & Inspiration How To Have A Small Wedding: Ideas for the Perfect Intimate Wedding Erin 18 min read While some couples dream of a huge, blowout wedding, others feel stressed at the idea of planning such a large event. Who's ready to bend it like Beckham? Calligraphed horses told guests which table was theirs. You can follow on Instagram and Pinterest. Think about the weather and your guests needs. This couple asked guests to decorate quilt squares that were later sewn together into a keepsake wedding quilt as a fun way to commemorate the day. It creates an experience where the guest and the couple both get to capture timeless classics, says photographer Gurminder Banga of Banga Studios, who has set up portrait lounges at events around the world. If your wedding will take place far from where you grew up, offer tasting stations with cuisine from that locale. You'll want your seating to complement the altar, not compete with it. You can't go wrong with a classic performance eitherguests will be delighted to watch a variation from Swan Lake or The Nutcracker (a perfect choice for a winter wedding). 60 DIY Wedding Decorations Ideas for Every Wedding Style - Brides Send their photos with your thank-you cards for a fun surprise. Get the party started by hiring a dance troupe to kick things off at the wedding reception. I'm weakthis bouquet is truly so fresh and stunning. 29 Wedding Reception Activities That'll Wow Your Guests Modern Minimalist by Vera Wang Beloved Floral - Red Romantic Calligraphy Elegant Glow - Blue Princess Cut Asscher Cut Cushion Cut Emerald Cut Pear Cut Radiant Cut Round Cut Oval Cut Ideas & Advice / Ceremony & Reception 29 Fun Wedding Reception Activities That Go Beyond Dancing While we love the elegance of a classic sit down dinner, heavily passed hors d'oeuvres can give your guests a chance to mingle with people they may have not seen in years. End your reception on a fiery note with a sparkler exit. Another way you can find and book wedding entertainment is by speaking with your wedding planner. The concept of a guest book is a fairly standard addition to any wedding, but that doesn't mean the guest book you choose needs to feel pedestrian. Have your best man emcee a trivia quiz about the two of you and ask each table to work as a team to come up with the answers. Strategically Plan Your Guest List PHOTO BY O'MALLEY PHOTOGRAPHERS; Planning by Valley & Company A small wedding is only so if the guest list is as small as possible. Write your soon-to-be spouse a heartfelt message on their wedding shoe for a sweet surprise on the big day. Enjoy poring over some of our fave cool wedding cake ideas. This piata is an homage to the candy Ring Pop that the groom proposed with. For guests who don't drink, consider having a sparkling lemonade stand or even a sorbet cart. Pinterest. You've heard about candy bars, s'mores bars, ice cream bars and even mashed potato barsbut what about a tea bar? If you enjoy everything Disney, invite some of your favorite characters to make an appearance at your reception. On The Knot Marketplace, you'll find reviews from newlyweds, real wedding photos and all of the vendor's contact information. Shutterfly Community is here to help capture and share life's most important moments. As beautiful as they always are, many indoor venues don't allow open flames and require candles to be enclosed for safety. In This Article. 22 Unique Wedding Reception Ideas On A Budget You'll Love Don't forget: You'll have to discuss what rides are allowed (before renting them) with your wedding venue and wedding planner. Give the bubbly some wheels for a whimsical feel. Brandon Kidd Photography , Wedding Planning: A Good Affair Wedding & Event Production by Hannah Nowack Updated Nov 08, 2022 Wedding Invitation Wording Examples for 2023, 20+ Unique Graduation Gift Ideas For 2023, The Best Canvas Prints: 8 Styles For Any Home, How To Get The Best Shutterfly Photo Book Deals, 100+ Fathers Day Quotes For Every Father Figure In Your Life, The 50 Best Happy Birthday Quotes To Help You Celebrate, Wedding Wishes: What To Write In A Wedding Card, Wedding Invitation Wording Examples For 2023. 1.Happy Feet At A Happy Reception Credit: Instagram You've got all decked up for a wedding reception. 02. A magician will definitely elicit some oohs and aahs from you and your guests, but it will as be a great opportunity for your wedding photographer to capture some memorable moments for your wedding photo album. What's not to love about this colorful wedding cake? What would guests really enjoy doing or seeing at your wedding? Forget the traditional blue garter or jewelry ideasa flower girl in blue is so much cuter, especially when accompanied by a flower crown. Get the whole room involved with a wedding wheel with instructions like "the bride and groom kiss" or "give a speech!". Palm trees and 80 degrees await you at these South Florida wedding venues. Another fun idea is to adorn apples or pears with personalized stickers that contain your names or a pun along the lines of "we make a pear-fect couple.". Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Hannah was the Social Media Editor at Martha Stewart Weddings. Once you create your tattoos, your guests can choose a design specific to you and your partner and have a truly unique experience. Consider lights, plants, fabrics, textures, and other playful ideas. "As guests entered, they were greeted by ballet dancers. Few things are worse than realizing you only have 10% battery life remaining during cocktail hour, but you want to be able to snap fun pictures while you break it down on the dance floor at your bestie's wedding. 02. I know what you're thinking: "Are there any truly unique wedding reception ideas out there?" For a summer wedding, consider using beach balls or seashells as escort cards. Late-night snacks are perfectly wonderful, but Jackson suggests surprising guests with a turndown service when they arrive back at their hotel if you want to make an even bigger statement. 75 Unique Wedding Ideas to Wow Your Guests - Brides Bon apptit! If you really want to think outside the box, then modern carnival sweets are the way to go. Scent is closely tied to memory so anytime you smell your chosen scent in the future, memories of the big day will come flooding back. Inspired by cut-paper Papel Picado banners, a traditional Mexican wedding decoration, this couple commissioned an artist to create a dramatic paper chandelier and matching table runners for their tented outdoor wedding reception. This first wedding reception idea takes advantage of the great outdoors. 31 Unique Wedding Reception Ideas - Craftsy Hacks Not only does it beckon guests more readily than a traditional book might, but it also encourages other guests to mix and mingle while they peruse the notes written by other party-goers. Draping isn't your only option for covering large expanses of open wall space at your wedding venue. Theres no denying the charm of a wooden sign or the elegance of a mirrored sign, but everyone uses them. 12 Wedding Reception Traditions You Need to Know In honor of the groom's profession as a baseball player, this couple set out baseballs for guests to sign before the end of the night. "We are both sentimental collectors, so we decided early on we wanted to create florals that would last well past the wedding. Sit back and enjoy the show. Instead of wearing a boutonniere, this groom had the shawl collar of his tuxedo outfit with flowers and greenery. Keep these must-know tips in mind as you start planning your own unique wedding details. If your state has a slogan (for instance, "Virginia Is For Lovers"), then that could also serve as a source of inspiration. However, they can sometimes become soggy and unusable. Why not match your cookies to your dcor? This colorful sign is the G.O.A.T., truly. Shared interests, travels, and family histories also serve as wonderful sources of inspiration," she adds. Having a post-wedding brunch the next day? The white and silver cake looks straight out of Great Gatsby and we're not mad about it. Central Park Zoo acted as the backdrop for this couple's animal-friendly wedding so it's no surprise that they included a sea lion performance as part of the reception schedule. It's time to boogie. Have a snack for sewing? Washington, DC-based expert wedding planner Melissa Williams, owner of B. Astonished Events since 2014, recently planned a wedding where a dance troupe performed. Hire a local troupe to choreograph a dance routine just for you. Or, host a martini bar where guests can customize their cocktail by choosing between gin or vodka, shaken or stirred, and the addition of olives or a lemon twist. Take cues from the works of color-happy artists such as Rothko, Van Gogh, or Pollock. Wedding entertainment doesn't have to be flashy to make an impact. 19992020 Wedding Reception Timeline Ideas + Template. Well, with help from these awe-inspiring ideas that incorporate unique wedding vendors and unique wedding activities. Have A Standing Dinner After a year and a half inside, your guests are probably ready to hit the dance floor. A photo booth with hilarious props is amusing, but why not give your guests a serious photo shoot? With this unique wedding reception entertainment idea, you don't have to stop playing video games just because you're at a wedding. "The cocktail hour is the right time to include any activities that involve mixing, mingling, and active discussion. Guests were greeted by an itinerary sign that boldly proclaimed there was no wedding schedule. This wedding cake is edgy in the truest sense. Mother of the Bride Speech Examples and Writing Tips, How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less, 30 Minimalist Wedding Ideas for the Cool Bride, What to Know Before Booking a Brunch Wedding Reception, How to Have a Restaurant Wedding Reception, How to Plan Your Wedding Reception Layout and Floor Plan. Choosing a wedding theme or style is one of the best ways to personalize your big day.A defined aesthetic will help you make important wedding planning decisions, like what color palette to follow, how you decorate your ceremony and reception, and what the overall vibe of your day feels like.But, with so many wedding theme ideas, narrowing down your favorite might feel nearly impossible. Having an outdoor wedding? Cocktail Hour Reception Hour 1 Reception Hour 2. Eclectic Table Dcor The mix of contradicting flowers in an array of table arrangements makes for a breathtaking outcome - think elegant red roses, green leaves with berries and an array of wildflowers. An amazing couple, unusual wishes, an interesting result of teamwork. Here's a must-see wedding reception idea for baseball lovers. Were also into balloons and lanterns as bouquet alternatives. Here are 75 distinctive ideasfrom catering selections to personalized dcor to bouquet ideasthat can help make your big day stand out. Sign up on The Knot to reach more couples and book more weddings! While some ideas may look cool, it can be hard to pull them off on a large scale during a wedding day. Plus, if you're having a themed wedding, use your photo booth to carry out your style. Our budget tips, dcor ideas, and practical advice on everything from seating charts and food service to signature cocktails and speeches will help you plan the perfect wedding reception. We love how feathers complement a large king protea in this arrangement. Calling all sneakerheadsthis escort-card-meets-wedding-favor idea is fire. As they say, we eat (and drink) with our eyes first. Opt for something creative that reflects your theme, like a fun neon sign with a sweet love-centric slogan. Set the game time to the background of bluegrass music or soft jazz, and let guests get a little competitive, drink in hand. For their Lion King-inspired wedding, this couple commissioned a chalk artist to create a mural with lions. Photo booths come with a variety of cute props and colorful backgrounds that your attendees will love. It's a thoughtful way to involve the local community on your wedding day. These trendy outfit changes are just as good as the original gowns. To pull it off, ask your guests to send a picture ahead of the event. Secondly, don't forget to consider your guests! "I love bold colors, like a palette of jewel tones mixed with softer pastels. This is a fun way to make your at-home garden into a team affair so you'll think of your wedding each time you look at your plants. Guests were invited to create old-fashioneds and enjoy some cigars in this colorful and eye-catching corner. At this summer wedding reception, the couple opted for an audio guest book that created a playlist of well-wishes that could be listened to for years to come. Incorporate your birthstone into your tablescape for a special touch. Photo by Headley Lyons; Planning and design by Pineapple Productions. First, check out these answers to common entertainment-related questions to put you on the right path. After finding their table number via the two signs that flanked the cookies, wedding guests got to snack on their fortune cookies as they made their way to their respective reception tables. Another idea is to stack the dessert table with cookies frosted with your monogram or shaped like the numerals of your wedding date ("6," "20," "17") for a personal touch. Are you a wanderlust pair with a travel theme? Connect with your event designer to dream up something truly magical. If you're looking to make your wedding day a little luckier, take a cue from this fortune cookie moment. How Many Passed Appetizers Should We Serve During Cocktail Hour? Were loving the boho glam of these amethyst napkin rings. Instead of bouquets for the bridesmaids, the florist for this Denver, Colorado, wedding decked out brass knuckles with flowers. Oenophiles, we've got a great wedding reception idea for you. Bring the glitz of the Las Vegas Strip to your wedding reception with singers, dancers, acrobats or contortionists. When it comes to unique wedding table number ideas, it's hard to top this. Champagne is one of the first things people will look for when they arrive at your wedding reception, so consider turning beverage service into a fun wedding activity. of these 50 ingenious ideas is just the inspiration you need for a reception that leaves your guests saying, "I wish I'd thought of that!". Your family and friends will hardly be able to look away as they enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. For one wedding, Pineapple Productions served maple bacon funnel cakes and strawberry chili cotton candy from a moving ferris wheel. Once you and your partner settle on your entertainment, you can use The Knot Marketplace to find the best vendor in your area. As a starting point, take some time to think about what represents you as a couple. We used the artwork on the wedding invitation and on playing cards that were given out as guest favors at the end of the night," Jackson says. Order custom labels for wine and water to put your own personal stamp on libations. Nothing makes more of an impact than demonstrating to your guests how much you care about them," Jackson says. Reception Hour 3 Reception Hour 4 Bonus Hour. "Guests can choose which style they like best or try both.. Stick to a single color (pink peonies, pink tulips, pink roses) or color scheme (jewel tones) to unify the look. Then, you can scroll through a list of our favorite wedding reception activities from real weddings for inspiration. It's technically not a fun wedding activity, but it's certainly a creative way to help your guests pay attention to any wedding entertainment you have scheduled later. Get Our Wedding Planner App On Your Mobile Device. A-listers like Alexandra Daddario and Naomi Biden prove this is the ultimate "cool girl" bridal label. GIF photo booths are all the rage these daysjust don't forget to share your wedding hashtag to encourage attendees to spread the #love. The traditional tabletop version adds a dose of fun and whimsy to any tented or outdoor reception area. If you plan on serving food from different cultures, then an elegant buffet could be a unique way to satisfy a variety of palates. Show your florist photos of your mothers bouquet so a florist can design a similar one, like this white, 1980s-inspired cascading bouquet. A few ideas: clam chowder and lobster rolls for New England; chili and tacos for Texas; or oysters for New Orleans. Are you planning on having an extravagant, luxe wedding? This couple took that to heart for their pink Sazerac signature cocktailsthey garnished the drinks with fresh edible flowers. Photo by Kate Headley; planning and design by Pineapple Productions. Can you believe we found 95 different and unique wedding reception ideas? Toast the woman who has had the greatest impact on your life, then hand her your bouquet as a tribute. Virginia Frischkorn, Colorado-based wedding planner and owner of Bluebird Productions and Bluebird in a Box concurs. By . Plus, it's a surefire way to guarantee your loved ones break it down on the dance floor while the DJ spins sick beats. Have the most meaningful phrase from your wedding vows embroidered or needlepointed on the ring pillow. A few areas to look to for inspiration as you plan your nuptials: Looking for some inspiration? Hire a painter to capture the scene of your wedding. Hire a poetry writer to capture your special day through poems written on the spot. While this rustic-chic light bulb topper is the perfect touch for an industrial-style wedding, a flamingo topper could be a nod to beach nuptials. There's no rule saying that you have to serve a simple chicken entre at the reception. From beloved lawn games to professional performers, and even printing your face on a cocktail, here are 11 unique wedding reception ideaswith and without dancing. Looking for an interesting idea for your wedding? The 2023 Wedding Trends That Are InAnd Out | Vogue Likewise, provide parasols for shade if its sunny or umbrellas if rain is in the forecast. If you really want to get fancy, you could order mini-etched champagne bottles as favors. Bouquet Toss and Garter Toss. Wedding Reception Ideas - Brides ", Photo by Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu Photography. Discover thoughtful gifts, creative ideas and endless inspiration to create meaningful memories with family and friends. So consider including something that represents you as a couple that you both would love to share with your guests. Consider hiring a fire performer. Skip the book and go with a cool wedding ideaask guests to leave a note or their signature on an item you can later turn into home decor or a meaningful keepsake. Purchase a terracotta planter and for guests to autograph during the wedding reception. Music inspired this rad wedding so it was only natural that the escort cards would take the form of concert tickets. I tip my hat to the genius pros who brought together this wedding. You could also include trivia questions about the newlyweds as an icebreaker for guests. Many couples look to sports for wedding inspiration. Decorate the chair of the person who set you and your SO up with a garland of greenery and a sign that reads, matchmaker. Other key people who played a role in your courtshipage-old friends, acquaintances, or teachers that you both had growing upcould also receive a special seat or even a flower crown to wear throughout the night. 58 Summer Wedding Ideas We Can't Get Enough Of, 75 Unique Wedding Ideas to Wow Your Guests, The 18 Best Wedding Planning Websites and Apps for Every Kind of Couple, 15 Stunning and Affordable Types of Wedding Venues, 30 Unique Engagement Party Ideas to Kick Off Your Wedding Journey, 25 Pretty Bridal Shower Food and Drink Ideas, 30 Fun Wedding Reception Games and Activities, 25 Creative Ideas for Your Wedding Ceremony, 20 Wedding Drink Ideas You Havent Thought OfYet, 18 Wedding Bar Design Ideas to Impress Your Guests, 21 Special Ways to Personalize Your Wedding Reception, Wedding Inspiration, Based on Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type.