4 Ways to Plan and Execute a Great Wedding Reception and After-Party

Your wedding day is so significant and the wedding ceremony is just one aspect of the big event. The reception and after-party are when guests really celebrate the new merrily married couple. As the couple at the helm of the festivities, take some time to plan ahead to make the entire event as memorable and enjoyable as possible. Read on for some important ways to plan and carry out a fantastic party.

Consider the Reception Timeline

Make sure that guests feel welcome and merry and that they aren't kept waiting around too long at any part of the wedding and reception process. Consider having bride and groom photos taken before the big event. This will free up photography time to join your guests quicker at the reception. Have appetizers and drinks available for guests to enjoy before your arrival. Photo booths offer another fun diversion. Take time to think about whether you want to do a receiving line or if you and your new spouse will have plenty of time to mingle with the guests at the wedding reception instead. Be sure to cut the cake while most of the guests are still present to enjoy a slice. It takes a while for servers to disperse cake slices and everyone will want to take part in a sweet nod to the newly married couple.

Rent Tables and Chairs

Rented chairs can serve as seating for both the wedding ceremony and the reception. Simply work out a way to swiftly have chairs moved without much fanfare or time lapsing between events. Rental chairs also come in an appealing array of options such as folding, cross back, and bistro. Many party specialty rental companies, like Party People Rentals & Sales, have not only tables and chairs available for rent, but also chair covers and sashes. Many party and special occasion rental companies also have tents available for rent.

Plan for the Temperature

When planning the reception and after-party, consider the temperature. If the reception is taking place outdoors, consider renting electric patio heaters to ward off any chills. If the weather is predicted to be hot and humid, have barrel fans or other strategically placed circulation fans. Offer guests plenty of cold beverages as well and look into giving personalized fans as wedding favors.

Make it Entertaining

If you are having a DJ, give him or her song titles but also give guests the freedom to request their own favorite tunes. Live music is another great option. Feel free to either stick with tried and true reception traditions or go ahead and create your own. Keep the celebration rolling right up until the end. Choose an exit gesture that fits your style, whether it be streamers, silly string, sparklers, or a balloon or fire lantern release.

Keep guests in mind and also plan a wedding reception and after-party that fit you and your significant other's style and preferences. Plan ahead and on the actual wedding day, you can savor and enjoy the events and people around you. Taking care of the logistics ahead of time allows you to just immerse yourself in the love you share, and the attendance of your favorite people, knowing you confidently put the details of the whole day in to motion.