Unforgettable Ideas for Your Wedding Reception

It is my job as a wedding planner to help the bride plan an unforgettable and unique wedding reception. A bride wants her guest to come away from her reception with a lifetime of memories. Another consideration is budget. If a bride doesn't have a large budget, a wedding planner can become a consultant for the bride. In this case, the bride does most of the reception planning. The following ideas for making an unforgettable wedding reception are unique, and easy enough that every bride can do the planning on her own.

Taste of the Town

The taste of the town wedding reception gives back to the community. The specialty food served is made by locals. Choose dishes that are famous in only your town or state. This can also be done with liquor. If your town or state manufactures a certain wine or beer, serve it at your reception. Also, purchase decorations and any other items needed for the wedding reception from a local mom and pop store. This is a great way to support your local merchants, and give guests a little taste of what your town has to offer.

Fireworks and Barbecue

A fireworks and barbecue wedding reception is extraordinary. Once the bride finds a beach or park location for her reception, she will need to contact the town to see if a permit is required for the fireworks display. Also, make sure to hire a professional to do the fireworks display. Place lace runners across the center of each table. Place candles and seashells across each runner. Designate a few people to do the barbecuing. Serve all types of salads for the side dishes. Instead of the traditional wedding cake, serve strawberry shortcake. Hire a DJ to play your favorite music. At dusk have the guest gather for the spectacular fireworks display.

Carnival and Games

The carnival and games wedding reception is truly for the bride and groom who love fun and whimsy. Choose a wedding reception location that is both indoors and outdoors. Serve the main meal inside. The outside of the reception will have cotton candy, fried dough and candy apple booths. Set up a photo booth where guest can take goofy pictures of themselves. Volleyball, horseshoes and frisbee are a few games perfect for a carnival wedding reception. Also, make sure to specify on the wedding invitations that guest bring casual clothes to change into after the wedding.

Portrait Artist

A portrait artist will give each guest a timeless treasure to take home. This is a generous thank you for participating in the bride and groom's special day. Hire a local portrait artist for your wedding reception. To save on cost, don't have the standard wedding favors placed at each table setting. This type of reception works best with a small wedding. Have the artist start the portraits after the meal is served and the cake is cut.

Fondue and Karaoke

Place a fondue for meats and one for desserts at each wedding table. Hire a DJ for your wedding reception that specializes in karaoke. Hand out prizes for the best performance. Decorate the reception with strobe lights and centerpieces that are sprinkled with glitter. Have a photographer on-hand to take pictures of the guests performing. Give each guest a picture of them performing to take home with them.