After you’ve swapped vows and sealed it with a kiss, it’s time to celebrate your newlywed status at the reception! Once you’ve made your marriage official, the reception is when you can finally kick back, relax, and join your friends and family for some fun.
Although there’s a standard wedding reception timeline, you have the freedom to structure the evening in any way that you please. Tempted to cut the cake before dinner? Go right ahead! There are no rules when it comes to creating your ideal party.
You can also fill your reception with any activities or decorations that speak to you as a couple. Swap place cards for handwritten letters to each guest, personalize your décor by carving your joint initials into your dance floor, or serve family and friends a meal that you and your significant other savored while traveling across Europe together. By incorporating elements that reflect your relationship, style, culture, or hobbies, you’ll give guests an accurate depiction of your love story.
While creating new traditions, you can also remove outdated ones that feel impersonal. Instead of doing a bouquet toss, set up a photo booth for guests to enjoy and have a keepsake to take home with them. Replace toasts and speeches with a special performance from a guest. Whatever you choose, make sure it feels meaningful to you and your partner.
For more inspiration, here are 21 unique ways to personalize a wedding reception that will stand out from the rest.