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Wedding Receptions Ideas
Candid Camera
Ask a friend to take a Polaroid shot of each guest as he or she arrives at the reception. Put the images in an album and have guests write messages next to their pictures.
Table Solution
Not thrilled about the tables at your reception site? Rent different ones and hire a lighting technician to create a welcoming glow.
Camcorder Confessions
Place one-time-use video recorders on each reception table so your guests can record their favorite party moments and special messages to you and your groom.
Simply Celestial
If you are having an outdoor wedding, set up a high-powered telescope and offer star charts so guests can stargaze after the sun goes down.
Game Time
Set out croquet and bocce ball equipment alongside colorfully painted signs inviting friendly competition at a garden wedding.
Saving Secret
Most reception locations are priced by the day of the week and month of the year. Saturdays are the priciest, of course, so instead choose a Sunday night before a holiday like Labor Day or Columbus Day.
In the Cards
Print business-size cards in your wedding colors (or with the date or your monogram) and display them in an album at your reception. Guests can remove blank cards to write their own personal message.Birthday Book
In lieu of a traditional guest book, pick out a pretty planner or date book and ask guests to sign on their birthday page. You'll learn who among your friends and family shares a special day—and have a future record too!Say Cheese!
Set out a Polaroid camera and pens and have your guests take and sign snapshots of themselves; then have one of your bridesmaids tape them into a poster-board collage for everyone to enjoy.Glamorous Send-Offs
Fashionable exits are returning to receptions. Revive the charming tradition of changing into honeymoon attire before departing, and take off together in style, with musicians playing a farewell song or amid rows of guests holding sparklers.Nostalgic Niceties
Connect with your guests by sharing something from your childhood. Offer a favorite snack such as caramel popcorn or marshmallow twists, or potted flowers from the area where you grew up. Attach a short note to explain the significance.
Move the Party!
Shifting guests from space to space creates excitement. Just as you move from cocktails to the meal, think about staging a separate dessert area or dance lounge.Picture This
If you own a Mac, create your own iPhoto guest book with Apple's iLife software: Choose your theme, select and arrange your photos, and customize in many other ways.
Check the Rules
If you're considering museums or historic mansions, ask about any regulations: They may ban red wine (spills can stain carpets), have cut-off hours, and limit your activities.Thursday Nuptials
At some sites, Thursday-night weddings could save you up to 50 percent; ditto the Sunday before a holiday.
