10 Creative Reception Ideas to “Wow” Your Guests

Play Lawn Games

For an outdoor afternoon wedding, setting up a game of bocce ball is an easy way to add some fun to the reception. You might also consider croquet or even horseshoes, depending on your personal tastes. Set up the game beforehand and add an inviting sign, like in this photo, nearby to encourage your guests to play.

Don’t Forget the Fireworks

Though it’s not feasible for every wedding, this one is truly a showstopper. Having a small fireworks show to celebrate the finale of your wedding will “wow” your guests and give the entire neighborhood something to talk about.

Step Into a Photo Booth

Photo booths are perfect for capturing those fun, candid moments in a way that’s instantly nostalgic (not to mention, you’ll get a photo for your guests and one to keep!). You can even take this idea to the next level by bringing along props for your guests to use or hiring a photographer who will set up a “life-size photo booth” with fun backgrounds.

Book a Cultural Band or Dance

We know you can’t wait to get your groove on once the reception rolls around, but why not consider incorporating a traditional song or dance to be performed during the cocktail hour? You and your groom can acknowledge your heritage by inviting a mariachi band to perform during dinner or an Irish step group. The lively music will not only get your guests on the dance floor, but it will pay homage to your roots.

Invite an Artist

This is one favor your guests won’t leave behind! Having an artist sketch everyone’s portraits throughout the evening will be a big hit since it’s something they may not have ever done before -- and they get to try it for free. Depending on your aesthetic, you could even hire a caricature artist or cartoonist to give your guests a good laugh.

Get Into Arts & Crafts

Have a lot of kids coming to the wedding? An arts and crafts table is a great way to keep them busy. Set up a table, like this one, and encourage them to paint something for you and the groom. You even can tie in your color scheme by giving them certain colors of paper and paint.

Serve Sweets and Treats

For those who really love ice cream, opt for this sweet dessert idea in addition to your traditional wedding cake. Hire an ice cream truck

Have a Cigar Bar

Surprise your guests by offering a cigar bar at the reception. You can hire someone to hand roll the cigars on-site, like this wedding did, or just offer them by a table of scotch. It’s a great way to start conversation and it’s something that both the girls and the guys at the wedding can get into. Just make sure you check with your venue first to make sure there is a designated smoking area.

Try Wine Tasting

Your guests can embrace their inner oenophile at your reception with this creative idea. Near the bar, bring in a wine expert who will serve and discuss wine choices with your guests. You could even give your sommelier the spotlight for a few moments at the beginning of dinner and allow him to introduce himself and the wines you’ll be having. Don’t like wine? You could try the same idea with some other liquors, like whiskey or scotch, or even beer.

Hire a Class Act

Wow your guests during the cocktail hour by hiring a sideshow-type performer. This firebreather twirled and performed at an outdoor beach reception; but don’t worry, there are still plenty of other acts you can book. Think: palm readers and magicians if you’ll be indoors.