Wedding Photography Series: Part 9 of 10
When the wedding ceremony is over and your vows have been said, it’s time to celebrate, and wedding receptions are where the party is at. From lively dance floors to quiet romantic moments and everything in between, you can plan a wedding reception that your guests will talk about for years to come.
To help you create a truly memorable wedding reception, here are 7 tips that reflect your style, keep the energy flowing, and create moments that you will remember.
1. Choose the Right Venue
Before you book anything, consider what kind of feel you want for your reception:
Elegant and formal?
Rustic and relaxed?
Modern and chic?
Your venue sets the foundation for your reception’s atmosphere. Choose one that aligns with your vision and supports your dinner and dancing plans.
Tip: A venue with built-in character or beautiful natural light is perfect for capturing stunning photos.
The Ford Field and River Club set the tone for C + C's stylish wedding.
Y + J's Italian wedding was designed to incorporate the beauty of their international destination.
The grandeur of Savannah was on full display at A + K's reception at the Olde Pink House, planned by Port Town Collective.
The beauty of Savannah's low country is seen at J + J's wedding held at Beaulieu Estate.
Hoping for a romantic ceremony followed by a party their guest would remember, AK + M chose Victory North to host their wedding reception.
2. Keep the Flow Going
Nothing kills a party like a choppy timeline. One of the most important tips for wedding receptions is to keep the energy going. Front-load formalities like toasts and cake-cutting early in the evening so that once that dance floor opens, it stays open.
3. Prioritize Food & Drinks
While your guests didn’t come for the food, serving great food definitely leaves a lasting impression. Whether you opt for a plated dinner, buffet or food stations, choose dishes that you and your guests will enjoy.
Adding late-night snacks to keep up the energy is also a great treat for your guests. And crafting a signature drink menu adds a personalized touch that guests will remember.
C + C's wedding and reception took place at Ford Field and River Club.
C + N's reception was held at the stunning Villa Montalvo.
Olde Pink House catered A + K's reception with traditional Southern fare.
Extra treats were left by the cake for guests to enjoy at C + C's wedding.
Guests were treated to late night snacks at C + N wedding reception.
J + J offered signature cocktails along with a full bar at their wedding reception.
4. Add Personal Touches
What makes wedding receptions truly unforgettable are the details that reflect you. A special photo display, unique guestbook, or details that reflect your love are small touches that create lasting impressions.
S + D used photos from their engagement session as a personalized guest book.
A + K included a variety of entertainment for guests to enjoy at their wedding reception.
H + J celebrated big with a personalized sign.
J + J, along with their wedding party, buried a bottle of bourbon to ensure good weather on their wedding day. At the reception they dug up the bottle and enjoyed a toast to celebrate.
C + N had a custom portrait painted by a local artist at their reception.
5. Make the Dance Floor the Place to Be
If you want a packed dance floor, get out there and dance! Guests take their cues from you, so if you are dancing and having fun, they will too.
Hire a DJ or band who understands your style of musical taste and your crowd. As the dancing goes into the night, consider handing out glow sticks, hats or other items for playful vibe.
6. End with a Private Last Dance
After your guests head outside for the grand exit, stay behind for a private last dance with your new spouse. It’s a quiet, meaningful way to close out the evening. And the resulting photos from that dance are often some of the most intimate of the entire day.
7. Be Present in the Moment
One of the best tips for your wedding reception is to slow down and soak it all in. Don’t worry about what didn’t go as planned, something always will. Instead, take time to talk to your guests, dance, laugh and enjoy every moment.
Do What Feels Right
Ultimately, make your wedding reception yours. Skip the traditions that don’t feel authentic and lean into the ones that do. There is no right way to plan a wedding reception, only the way that is right for you!
Whether you are planning an epic party or an intimate gathering, these wedding reception tips will help you create a night filled with love, laughter and unforgettable memories.
See more weddings on the blog here.
