Every May through September proves to be an exciting time known as wedding season! In the wedding season of 2016, my husband and I attended eight weddings. It was a blast but looking back it can be tricky to remember each wedding because some of them seem to blend together in my mind. But at the end of the day, there are always a few factors that help make that wedding stand out in your mind and create the best memory for guests in the years to come.
Here are five ways to make your reception the most memorable.
5 Ways to Make Your Wedding Reception Memorable
Make It Personal
It's always special when the bride dances with her dad, or the groom dances with his mom - but I love when couples take it a step further. My friends' father passed away years ago and wasn't able to dance with her at her wedding so instead of not having any dance, she danced with a few men in her life who filled in a fatherly role throughout the years and wrote a note at each guest's place setting explaining the situation. It was extremely personal and heartwarming... a memory the guests will never forget.
Invest In the Dance Floor
Some of the most memorable wedding receptions are the ones that have the most lively dance party. Don't feel like you need to make it a competition, but know what it takes to create an environment that allows guests to dance. Dim lighting, drinks, a good DJ, enough space, and props like glow in the dark lights...all of these factors come into play for the reception. Know your audience and make it fun for them. Text a few of your friends and family when you're working with your DJ on the playlist and ask them what their favorite song is. They won't be able to resist the dance floor when their song comes on, and they'll love that you reserved it just for them.
Exchange Sweet Moments
Every party needs a host. Of course, you don't need to walk around and take care of everyone all night, but you should be intentional about mingling with your guests. They traveled far and wide to attend your wedding. You don't need to talk for 5 minutes with each and every guest, but take a moment to give someone a hug, share a dance, or say "hi". Some of the cutest and most memorable moments happen when a bride is simply having a conversation in her wedding dress with her loved ones.
Have A Showstopping Menu
One of the easy ways to ensure guests will always remember your wedding reception is to feature foods and drinks that people love. It doesn't need to be elaborate, but ensuring that you have a little something for everyone and giving guests options will make them comfortable and perhaps remember that one appetizer or cupcake years later.
Reserve Time for Toasts
You can't deny that the most cringe-y, tear-worthy, and heartwarming moments happen when you give guests a glass of champagne and allow them to give a toast at your wedding. Set aside a few minutes before dinner begins for your brother, dad, maid of honor, or best friend say a few words. This adds a personal touch to each wedding and allows guests to learn something new about you and your new spouse. Guests will never forget the toasts that made them laugh and cry.
Every wedding reception has its special moments, but it's a few key elements that keep guests talking about the reception for years to come. Choose your moments and remember to bring your mental camera.
Style Me Pretty Contributor - Kylie Thompson is a freelance writer, blogger and marketing professional from Grand Rapids Michigan, where she resides with her husband and golden retriever. When she isn't working, you will find her exploring Grand Rapids' newest culinary establishments with her husband, or traveling up and down Lake Michigan's coast.