When I ask my clients to describe the most unique weddings they’ve ever attended, I’m always surprised that they can usually think of no more than one or two.
Here’s my top 10 list on how to create a unique wedding or event using a few key reception ideas:
1. Flow is extremely important. Make sure you have enough servers so that your guests are never kept waiting. No one wants to stand in a long line at the bar or buffet.
2. Everyone loves a great band or DJ, but if the music is too loud guests won’t be able to converse without screaming at each other. A few seconds of screaming and your guests will start to hate the music. Early in the evening, keep the music at a low volume. Later in the night, pump up the volume to get everyone dancing. It will make all the difference for your reception.
3. Try to avoid too many long speeches, and keep the microphone away from any family members who are likely to drink too much. All of the important speeches should be given at the rehearsal diner the night before.
4. Pace your meal so that everyone gets each course at the same time. There’s nothing worse than when some tables are finishing their course while others are still waiting to be served.
5. Your wedding is not the Superbowl. Make sure that your wedding decor includes dim lighting, which will create an intimate and romantic environment. Candles help, too.
6. Speaking of which, candles generate heat. You don’t want your event space to feel like an oven. Keep the air conditioner a bit higher than usual to balance the heat.
7. We live in a culture that believes the more alcohol that is consumed, the better the party. However, if one of your guests drinks too much he or she may become mean or disruptive. If this happens, don’t hesitate to ask the person to leave, and if the individual won’t leave, you should have him or her removed.
8. As for wedding reception decorations, remember to leave enough room for your table settings (people need those glasses and plates!) No one enjoys eating at a table that is overcrowded. (I’m guilty of this one!)
9. If you’re a wedding photographer, PLEASE leave your bright lights at home. You know the ones I’m talking about: they ruin the bride’s romantic walk down the aisle. A much better option would be to work with the designer before the event to make sure the lighting is strategically placed. That way, you’ll get every shot you need without any blinding lights.
10. Don’t forget about the flowers! Whether your client prefers simplicity or drama, the absolute worst thing a client can say after an event is, ”I can’t even remember the flowers.” What a shame, considering the flower arrangements can be one of the most memorable aspects of the wedding decor.
Now a question for you:
In your experience, what’s the one element guests are most likely to remember after a wedding?
How many unique weddings have you been to and what made them so unforgettable? Have you created any unforgettable weddings? Tell me about them!
PREVIOUS
George Bernard Shaw once said: “You see things and say, ‘Why?’ But I dream things that never were and say, ‘Why not?’” That quote embodies how Preston Bailey approaches every event.
Mimi
April 13, 2011
Actually, the most fun wedding I attended was one for a couple who are now divorced. It was fairly traditional, trumpeters, doves released incredible food. But once dinner was over the real fun began. Out came noisemakers, maracas, lei, hats and it just made everyone get out of themselves and dance.
Claudia
April 13, 2011
The absolutely unforgettable thing the guests will remember (this is for all kind of cultures and traditions) has to be the food. We had a small wedding in Mexico City and my friends and family were gladly surprised, deeply touched and thankful that we chose ‘Chiles en Nogada’ for the main course (traditional, historical, colorful and sophisticated dish). They all remeber that my late Granny used to prepare that dish every year. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiles_en_nogada
Shawna Gohel
April 13, 2011
The one element from my wedding that was unforgettable was my red, Monique Lhuillier wedding dress. It is EPIC!
Emilie
April 13, 2011
I think having some form of unique entertainment can make an event memorable. For my own wedding I had the caterers serve bananas foster – it came out on 10 rolling carts and then it was flambed in front (think flames of fire) of the guests set to fun music – everyone loved it! I also attended a wedding in Philadelphia where the Mummers Parade is very popular so the bride hired the Mummers to perform at her wedding.
Michele Schwartz
April 13, 2011
My favorite tip is #4. That’s why for my Thanksgiving wedding we went with family style service. It was unheard of for anyone on my guest list who are used to traditional Jewish weddings with a seated dinner.
Erika
April 13, 2011
I find that guests are likely to remember the centerpieces, lighting, staff service, and food. In a nutshell, the overall atmosphere, the way they were managed and treated, and taste of the food.
Angela
April 14, 2011
Good food, decor, music and emcee- make an extremely memorable event. The less speech you have – always better. Let the party start early and people will always remember that special event. Of course an element of surprise is always the icing on the cake… I always recommend one is thrown in at every event.
beatriz cantu
April 18, 2011
Definitely the food! People tend to forgive and forget every other “goof” but that.
wedding dresses
April 20, 2011
It was fairly traditional, trumpeters, doves released incredible food. We had a small wedding in Mexico City and my friends and family were gladly surprised. hat’s why for my Thanksgiving wedding we went with family style service. http://www.elegantbridaldresses.ca/7-beach-wedding-dresses
Brianna Olds
April 20, 2011
What great tips not only for weddings but for when hosting a dinner party or an event as well. We’ll definitely refer to your blog for this type of advice in the future. Thank you.
Brianna Olds
CoolProducts.com Social Media Marketing Manager