10 Tips for the Ultimate Wedding Reception
The experts at California DJs know all the secret elements - and
the "not-so-secret" ones too - all to help you plan the ultimate
wedding reception that is perfectly you! Use these 10 essential
elements to create the perfect day for you and your guests.
1. Generously Invite
Writing the guest list... what a challenge! How do you agree on
whom to invite and still stay within your budget? Here's the
bottom line. You are preparing for the most magical day of your
life and in the end only one thing will matter - the public
declaration of your love and commitment... and each and every
person there to witness it.
We encourage you to invite every person you love. Your guests
are the focal point of this very special day. Cut back on the
cost of the dinner, limit the hours of the open bar, but don't
cross off names. As you fondly remember your wedding day, you
will not remember the per-person cost. You will remember glowing
faces of the people celebrating your union... the buzz at the
reception... the clink of toasting glasses throughout the room
congratulating your marriage! The extra veggie platter, shrimp
apps, and extravagant centerpiece won't be the center of
attention - the people will be.
2. Designate Your Celebratory Space
Before you plan your reception know exactly where you want
people to mix and mingle. Fantastic receptions brim with family
and friends who feel comfortable, meet, talk, dance, and become
acquainted with one another. Don't let guests leave early, slip
away to check out the impressive surroundings of your location,
or run outside for a smoke and then never come back to join the
party. Define the space with ribbons or closed doors. Don't be
afraid to close off certain areas or rooms. The liveliest
receptions have a common area where guests are mingling and
activities are taking place. A designated space ensures guests
catch and capture each wonderful moment as it unfolds.
3. Special Activities Just For The Joy Of It
Remember, 80% of your guests won't know each other. The greatest
wedding memories are the new friendships and extended family
bonds created at your wedding. Use interactive games, specialty
dances, bold announcements, or fun activities during the
reception to break the ice and help people get to know one
other. Suddenly you'll see people laughing and enjoying
themselves instead of feeling shy or retreating on the sidelines.
4. Let Go, Have Fun & Toss Your Worries Aside
The bride sets the stage and the tone for reception party. This
is the time and place for all brides to let go, have fun, and
toss any last minute worries aside. Let the months of planning
and masterful professionals you've selected take over and do
what they do best. You only have one job - to be the most
radiant and loveliest guest of honor. Show up and celebrate! If
you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, your guests will sense
it and feel uncomfortable too. You have the power and pleasure
to give your guests permission to let loose and have a great
time!
5. Dance Your Little Heart Out
One saucy shoe must be the first to step out on the dance floor.
Guests will be looking to you for permission and timing to
dance. As soon as you get up and dance, they'll let loose and do
a little rumba too! People are typically shy and most guests are
very careful not to offend or overstep their boundaries. Plan to
play music you love so you are comfortable. Your physical cues
can create a safe space for them to dance, toe-tap, celebrate,
toast, and party. Watch friends and family get up and dance,
thoroughly enjoy themselves, then talk about what a fabulous
reception it was in the morning.
6. Embellish, Adorn, and Decorate
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