Couples striving for an unforgettable wedding for their guests is a tale as old as time, and understandably so! You want your loved ones to be talking about how much fun your reception was for years to come, and going bold with unique, over-the-top entertainment ideas is the perfect way to make fun memories.
These wedding pros share their biggest must-have unique, over-the-top entertainment ideas for amping up your wedding.
Partying on the way to the reception
Who says that you have to wait until after dinner to get everyone dancing and excited? According to Love Clark, owner of Love Clark Events, a Jamaican-inspired parade may not be the conventional choice for every couple, but it’s guaranteed to get the party started.
“If you’ve ever been to any parade, it’s elevated with beautifully designed floats and performers dancing as the parade continues leading in one direction. The attire is nothing short of sensational, featuring magnificent feather crowns and the most creative and colorful attire. This experience is sure to get your guest ready for the evening activities while partying the night away during cocktail hour!” Clark emphasizes.
Immersive food and beverage
Guests love to be given a bespoke experience with interactive food and beverage, so take advantage of this when you’re putting together your menus. The more interactive, the better.
Samantha Leenheer of House of Joy offers this suggestion: “Mixing entertainment with food or the bar is always a good time. One of our favorite entertainment options is to bring in an acrobat or gymnast that will dress in costume to deliver food on roller skates or another fun way. We have had them pour champagne from the ceiling and deliver cocktails while in a giant champagne coupe. The guests love how interactive and dynamic it is.”
Performers galore
Performances can go further than simply a DJ or a live band. The options are endless, but there are a few that are sure to surprise and delight your family and friends.
“Another option is a light show. It is similar to a performance using fire as entertainment, only that instead of live flames, it’s fast-moving LED lights with performers,” says Clark. “This can add a nice touch to entertainment during dinner to keep guests occupied during the downtime of the wedding evening.”
Sarah Chianese of Mangia and Enjoy! says: “Aerial performers are on the rise (pun intended) and are being sought after heavily by couples seeking to create a truly unique, over-the-top experience for their guests. While installing necessary equipment and safety measures may seem daunting to some, the payoff of all guests raving about the entertainment makes it a worthy endeavor for those who persevere and make it happen.”
Entertainment that doubles as favors
A huge priority for guests and couples alike is capturing memories through the wedding day. While you can certainly rely on your photographer or videographer, giving your loved ones the tools to make fun memories with entertainment is a great way to stay engaged with them.
“Guests absolutely adore capturing memories through photo booths at weddings, and the complement of a photo booth or station has always been a delightful hit! When it comes to photo booths, there are countless ways to incorporate them into a wedding celebration,” says Clark, adding, “One of the latest trends is the resurgence of black-and-white images. There’s something undeniably timeless about this aesthetic, which beautifully complements the classic and Polaroid-inspired moments.”
The concept of designing a backdrop that perfectly aligns with the wedding’s aesthetics is becoming a promising trend this year. Couples are opting for custom-designed walls featuring fun slogans and incorporating touches of florals to create an elegant ambience. Custom 3-D walls, props such as vintage bathtubs integrated into the backdrop, mirror selfies with adorable slogans for phone selfies, and even floral tunnels with stages add even more fun.
Show-stopping exits
Don’t forget the entertainment that follows you on the way out! Sparklers may be a classic, but Clark notes that fireworks hold an element of surprise, and they’re especially great for 2023 couples looking to make an impact.
“Fireworks give guests that wow factor of surprise, as most will never expect it at an actual wedding. It’s a marvelous way to end the wedding with a farewell and kiss.”
While you don’t have to break the bank to throw an amazing event, you’ll want to keep these unique, over-the-top entertainment ideas in your back pocket as you plan an exciting wedding reception!