How to make a wedding fun

Read This or Have a Boring Wedding

Weddings have come a long way from yesteryear's stiff, formal affairs. Today, everyone from brides-to-be to wedding planners is in hot pursuit of that elusive 'fun factor' to make their celebration unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your own wedding reception or someone else’s, injecting a bit of fun into the day can transform it from just another event into a vibrant, joyous, and memorable occasion. If you're thinking of how to make your wedding fun, you're in the right place. Buckle up for some light-hearted but actionable advice that will keep your guests talking about your big day for years to come.

Set the Tone from the Get-Go

The vibe of your wedding should be evident from the moment your guests arrive before the wedding ceremony. No one wants to walk into a wedding that feels like a corporate seminar. How do you set the tone? A live band at the welcome area can start things off on the right foot. Imagine guests being greeted with lively tunes instead of awkward silence. A string quartet is the go-to choice when we think of wedding day music, but how about we shake things up with a mariachi band?

Then there's the drinks reception. Why not hire a magician? This isn’t Hogwarts, but who said magic tricks can’t break the ice and get people mingling? A wedding magician can roam around, leaving your guests both bewildered and entertained, setting the stage for a fun-filled day.

Keep Everyone in the Loop with an Itinerary Board

Nothing kills the fun faster than confusion. Your guests should never be guessing what's happening next. An itinerary board solves this problem seamlessly. Place it at the entrance so everyone knows the schedule and what’s expected of them. This ensures that Aunt Mabel doesn’t wander off during the toasts and miss half the fun. Plus, it keeps things running smoothly, which is always a bonus.

Activities Galore

Activities are the secret sauce to a lively wedding. The great thing is, they don’t have to cost a fortune. For budget-friendly options, consider lawn games like giant Jenga or cornhole. These activities are perfect for breaking the ice and keeping people entertained.

On the other end of the spectrum, a photo booth can be a fantastic addition. People love putting on goofy hats and making silly faces. It gives them something fun to do and leaves you with hilarious snapshots of your guests having a blast. Win-win! Plus, it's the perfect opportunity for your wedding photographer to grab some lively photos.

Alcohol – The Age-Old Social Lubricant

Now, we’re not saying you need to turn your wedding into Oktoberfest, but a bit of liquid courage can go a long way. Offering a variety of cocktails or even a signature drink can loosen inhibitions and get people chatting and dancing. Just remember, moderation is key. No one wants a repeat of Uncle Bob’s infamous drunken karaoke.

Get Everyone Dancing Early

The first dance doesn’t have to be a drawn-out romantic saga. Keep it short and sweet, and then invite everyone to join in. The quicker your guests feel comfortable on the dance floor, the better. There’s nothing worse than a five-minute slow dance with everyone else standing around awkwardly.

Lead by Example on the Dance Floor

If you want your guests to dance, you’ve got to lead the charge. Stay on the dance floor and watch others follow suit. It’s the sheep effect—people tend to follow the crowd. If you’re having a blast, they will too. Be the life of your own party, and your guests will feed off your energy.

Song Requests

Everyone likes to dance to their favourite songs, so allowing your guests to make suggestions to the DJ or your wedding playlist can help keep them dancing on your special day.

Keep Your Guests Guessing

Throw in a few surprises to keep things exciting. Maybe a surprise performance, an unexpected toast, or even a flash mob (if you’re feeling particularly adventurous). These surprises keep the energy high and the mood light. Just when your guests think they know what’s coming next, hit them with something delightful and unexpected.

Props, Props, Props

Props are a simple yet effective way to add fun to the dance floor. Oversized sunglasses, glow sticks feather boas, beach balls and funny hats can make for some fantastic photos for your wedding guests and add an element of playful spontaneity. They're budget-friendly wedding entertainment ideas and can be picked up easily online or at a party supply store.

Encourage Interaction Among Guests

Your bridal party and groomsmen should act as the ultimate hosts, ensuring no cliques form and everyone feels included. Few things are worse than a wedding where the guests stay in their respective corners, only interacting with their own groups. Encourage your bridal party to mingle and involve all the guests, making everyone feel part of the celebration.

Interactive Food and Drink Stations

Interactive stations can be a big hit. Think build-your-own taco bars, make-your-own cocktail stations, or even a DIY s’mores bar. These stations do more than just feed your guests—they offer a fun, interactive experience that gets people talking and mingling.

Live Entertainment

Consider spicing things up with some live entertainment. Whether it’s a stand-up comedian, a fire dancer, or a caricature artist, live performers can elevate your wedding to a whole new level. They provide great conversation starters and keep everyone engaged. A great wedding entertainment idea is a pop-up casino - everyone loves to gamble, and it is a fun way to get your wedding guests mixing and mingling at your wedding reception. A photo booth is a fun activity, and guests leave with a memento of their day.

Games That Involve Everyone

Incorporate games that everyone can participate in. From trivia about the bride and groom to wedding bingo, these games are not only fun but also help guests get to know each other. The more interactive elements you include, the more invested your guests will be in the celebration.

Comfortable Seating Areas

Offering comfortable seating areas can make a world of difference, especially for older guests. Create cosy lounges with sofas and cushions where guests can relax, chat, and recharge before heading back to the dance floor. A comfortable guest is a happy guest, after all.

Personal Touches

Adding personal touches can make your wedding feel unique and heartfelt. Little details can make a big impact, whether a custom playlist featuring your favourite songs, a display of family photos, or personalised wedding favours, bespoke wedding favors and a creative place setting. They show that you’ve put thought into making the day unique for everyone involved.

Involve Your Guests in the Ceremony

Why not involve your guests in the ceremony itself? Have them participate in a unity ritual, read a poem, or share a few words of wisdom. This will make the ceremony more meaningful and set a positive tone for the rest of the day. The cake cutting is often the most cringeworthy part at a wedding reception. Have a host drum up some excitement.

Keep the kids at home

I know this might ruffle some feathers, but a kid-free wedding is a clever way to keep your friends from playing babysitter all day. Plus, it eliminates the chance of your wedding cake mysteriously disappearing! However, if the kids are invited, a bouncy castle (for a summer wedding or outdoor weddings) will keep them occupied during the cocktail hour and into the early hours (if you're lucky!).

Fun Send-Off Ideas

End the night on a high note with a fun send-off. Sparklers, fireworks (check with your wedding venue), or a balloon release can create a magical and memorable farewell. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of love and laughter. Of course, a fireworks display is an expensive addition to your wedding reception, so check with your wedding planner for a cheaper, modern twist.

How to have a fun wedding: Conclusion

Making a wedding fun isn’t rocket science—it’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels relaxed, engaged, and entertained. By setting the right tone, keeping your guests informed and involved, and adding plenty of interactive elements, you can ensure your wedding is a memorable celebration for all the right reasons.

Your wedding reception should also reflect you as a couple so although a fun reception is the goal, if it doesn't fit your style, skip it.