Before you assume I'm going to give you a list of specific decoration ideas, I'm going to have to shut that train of thought down. I have no eye for decor, I'm not even that good at decorating my own room (I leave all those ideas to Kristen Haney:) My area of expertise (if you even wanna call it that...you shouldn't) mostly lies in food and entertainment. Of course, I am stealing ideas from weddings I've been to in the past and my new bff theknot.com (don't judge me!)
#1 suggestion for a reception is make it as personal as possible.
I don't know who said inside jokes at a wedding are a bad idea, I have to strongly disagree! The more personal the reception is to the bride and groom, the better it is, even for the guests. I once went to a wedding where the couple had a lemon and lime themed reception. Of course everyone seemed confused until word got around that the couple chose this theme because they always claimed to be "as different as lemons and limes." It doesn't matter who doesn't get the joke at first, it makes it so much more enjoyable for the guests to get to know your relationship better as the night goes along.
Along with this idea is putting facts about your relationship into your reception. One couple I know placed pictures of their relationship from start to finish all over the place. I read about a couple who met in Vegas and named each table after a location in Sin City. I also went to a wedding where each place mat had a random fact about the couple (be careful that, if you choose to do this, you don't reveal anything inappropriate.)
Food can also be a personal touch. My great friend Jessica had Chick-fil-a brownies in her reception because they were her favorites, and I fully intend to have Icee machines at my wedding! More on food later!
#2 suggestion for a reception is make it comfortable and fun.
Receptions don't always have to be formal, in fact, it's often better if they're not. If you wanna go for a more casual lounge setting, there's no reason to stick to tables and hard chairs. Not to mention, if the bridal party decides to follow tradition and take pictures directly after the ceremony the guests could be waiting around for a while.
So having entertainment for those waiting is never a bad idea. Many couples decide to use things like photo booths and mad libs to help keep the guests busy, both great ideas! An idea I just read about is having a photo scavenger hunt with disposable cameras at each table. The guests must do things like: take a picture with three people you don't know, find an elderly couple holding hands, take a pic mimicking the bride and groom, etc.
Don't be afraid to get out of the norm with your setting and mood of the reception. It's your wedding, do what you want!
#3 suggestion for a reception is don't be afraid to include junk food.
It seems to me the idea of including junk food in a wedding reception is a bit taboo...it shouldn't be. Going along with the personal reception idea, if the bride and groom would prefer to not have finger sandwiches or full out dinners, bring in food they love. If the bride's favorite meal is pizza, bring in pizza! I once knew a couple who loved a wide variety of foods and had different stations around the room. In one corner, there was nachos, in another there was sandwiches, etc. The day is yours, the meal is yours, do what you want.
Word of caution: Though this is your day and it should fit to cater what you desire, you should also consider that other people will have to consume what you lay out. Don't go out and choose the most random/wackiest thing you like, be considerate. Also, please remember there's a thin line between casual and tacky. Having a relaxed wedding is not the same as having a sloppy wedding. This is still a special day, it's not your everyday social gathering. Make it what you want, but do keep in mind it's unique.
#4 suggestion for a reception is dance floors and food bars are always a good idea.
I almost split this suggestion into two separate ideas but decided I needed to keep it together for the sake of not going off on tangents about how much I love each.
Personally, my favorite part of the wedding is where I get out on the dance floor and break it down with my friends! Not everyone likes or believes in dancing (and I'm not judging either way) but dance floors not only allow people to let loose but something about them brings more openness to the room. It's more space to gather and I think it's an overall great idea..not to mention the cha cha slide never gets old!
Food bars are always fun! I'm not just talking about buffets, I'm talking about ice cream bars, candy bars, even pop/soda bars. Anything that gives variety, choice and enjoyment is recommended:)
Another random favor suggestion I discovered today is having monogrammed take home boxes for anyone who wants cake for later (WHO WOULDN'T WANT THAT?!) That takes care of guests and less food your parents have to store in their freezers.
I hope these suggestions are helpful. Like I keep saying, the reception is the time to enjoy and let loose. Brides and grooms, make it want you want, it's your day!!
