If you’re planning to tie the knot in the near future, you’ll to begin planning as soon as possible. While most grooms and brides focus their attention on the ceremony, the reception is equally as important.
Seating Chart
Whether you’re planning a small wedding with just a couple dozen close friends and family, or a large wedding with 200+ guests, you’ll probably want a seating chart for the reception. Without a seating chart, your reception can turn into a free-for-all with guests battling it out for their preferred table. So to maintain a sense of order at your wedding, create a seating chart for the reception that outlines who sits where.
Toast and Speeches
Decide who you want to give a toast and speech at your wedding and the order in which they do so. It’s usually a good idea to limit the number of speeches at your reception to three, as this keeps the activities and guests happy.
Food and Beverages
Of course, your reception should also include plenty of food and beverages for guests to enjoy. Some venues have on-site catering service, eliminating the need for hiring a third-party caterer. If your venue does not offer such a service, however, you’ll need to choose a separate catering service to provide food and beverages at your reception.
DJ
No wedding reception is complete without a professional DJ manning the sound equipment. He or she will ensure that the speakers are set up in the best possible area, while also playing the songs specified by you and your soon-to-be spouse.
Dance Lineup
You should also choose a dance order for your wedding reception. Traditionally, the bride and groom are the first dance, after which the bride’s father cuts for a father-daughter dance. Next, the mother of the groom dances with her son. And lastly, the bride’s father dances with his wife. Once the traditional dances are over, all guests can get up from their seats and let loose on the dance floor.
Transportation
How will guests make it to the reception? If the ceremony is being held at a different venue, you may need transportation services to help shuttle guests to the the reception. And even if the reception and ceremony are held at the same venue, you should still consider the parking availability and whether or not it’s able to accommodate all of your guests.
Wedding Favors
Although optional, wedding favors are a fun way to show your appreciation to everyone who attended your wedding. Whether it’s homemade candies, soap, miniature wine bottles, framed photos, etc., wedding favors should be given out during the reception.