This week during our LOVE OVER COVID Planning Series, we have received some amazing questions regarding the new normal for wedding receptions. Do we see wedding receptions changing? Will there still be a dance party atmosphere due to social distancing? What is the new normal? These are questions that need answers, and we will also provided trendy interactive activities that you can add to your reception plans to keep you and your guests safe during this season.
The new normal means BACK TO THE BASICS. Couples are cherishing their closest families and friends through smaller guest list during this time to celebrate their special day. Couples are focusing more on what brought them together? What marriage commitment truly means to them?
Event planners are assisting couples with redesigning reception floor plans by ensuring the reception tables are 6ft apart, dance floor space is extended, and changing buffet services to plated dinner services. However, I know you are wondering "How Do We Start the Party!"
The traditional flow of wedding receptions such as first dances, cake cutting, and toasts will still remain important. Here are a few more interactive activities that your guests will enjoy.
#1 Bouquet Toss Vs. The Single Rose
The bouquet toss is lots of fun, but during this time, too close for comfort. Here is a sweet and simple option. After the cake cutting and the toast, a single white or red rose is given to all of the single women at your wedding with a simple thank you note attached from the bride and groom. Ladies love roses!
#2 The Dance Train
As an alternative to table numbers, each table is given a different song. Once the song is played by the DJ, the guests assigned to that table and specific song will dance their way to the buffet lines. Your guests will be on the edge of their seats waiting for their song to be played and their dinner served. Dancing and food is the perfect combo.
#3 The Shoe Game
This is my favorite wedding game, the shoe game. The newlyweds take a seat in front of their guests, sitting back to back. Each has one of their shoes, and one of their partner's songs. One of the members of the wedding party acts as host of the game, and the couple has to answer the following questions simultaneously by holding up the shoe that corresponds with their answer. Estimate approximately 15 minutes to play the shoe game, and include questions like:
Who made the first move?
Who said I love you first?
Who is the better cook?
Who is the better dancer?
Who spends more time getting dressed?
Who is more romantic?
Although your guests will not be actually playing the game, they will be fully engaged as your answers reveal the truth about you and your partner.
#4 Wedding Scavenger Hunt
Provide your guests will a Scavenger Hunt Checklist of 20 wedding moments they can capture with their phones using your hashtag such as the newlyweds first kiss, first dances, table decorations or selfies. As an alternative, you can host a scavenger hunt of hidden stars or hearts throughout the venue, within your centerpieces, attached to your chairs, or on cocktail tables. Also, as a gift, the guest who has found the most stars or hearts, will receive a gift card or gift basket from the bride and groom.
See, you have four new interactive activites to add to your reception plans. If these tips helped you, let us know and we have plenty more to share.
Love, Danielle Rogers
The Wedding Planner