Contrary to popular belief, dancing isn’t the only activity you have to do with your guests during your reception — in fact, many couples are leaning toward alternative entertainment, including interactive games. Even better, if you aren’t the 'field day' type, rest assured that wedding experts have plenty of ideas to engage your guests without having them take their shoes off.
By: Meghan Ely
Photo: Lynne Reznick Photography
"Have the couple write down two unusual truths about themselves, and then have them add in a lie that sounds like a truth. Place each list of 3 potential 'truths' on a cocktail table and have your guests guess which statement isn't true. Consider doing as many sets of questions as cocktail tables and revealing the truths during the reception when everyone sits down." —Kimberly Sisti, SISTI & CO.
"One of the games that we recommend the most to wedding hosts is event bingo. This is because it is inclusive and can be played by the majority of guests at the event (younger, older, individuals with disabilities or differing needs, and more) and does not require much oversight and management. Hosts can print or purchase bingo 'cards' where each of the squares represents either something present at the wedding that the guest has to find or notice or can be a fun fact about the couple that the guest has to fill in correctly in order to get the square and more. Couples can really get creative with the 'clues' and manage the game as formally or informally as they'd like." —Deliece Knights-Barnett, Dhalia Events LLC
"Invite guests to hit the dance floor in pairs or groups for a friendly competition. The DJ or a designated emcee can choose winners based on crowd applause. It keeps the energy high and the dance floor full!" —Craig Peterman, Craig Peterman Photography & Videography
"If you have an outdoor cocktail hour, cornhole is ideal. You can customize the corn hole sets with photos or the names of the couple. You can offer silly prizes to the winners, like a dance with the bride's uncle, a card to cut the line at the bar, or a special photo with the wedding couple." —Tajlei Levis, Wilburton Inn
"Splitting your reception up into different areas can be ideal for organizing games and encouraging your guests to break the ice. Include some tables that are large enough for board games in one area that’s a bit quieter, organize a karaoke competition on the dance floor, or put together a scavenger hunt that stretches from cocktail hour to the after-party." —Kevin Dennis, Fantasy Sound Event Services
"The bride and groom answer a list of questions about their relationship before the celebration. Their guests will have a list of their answers and guess who they think said the phrase. The guest with the most correct answers receives a surprise." —Kimberly Sisti, SISTI & CO.
"Mad Libs at each table with prompts about the couple's love story or advice for married life. Guests fill them out and share their hilarious results during the reception. It's fun, interactive, and works for all ages!" —Craig Peterman, Craig Peterman Photography & Videography
Wedding reception entertainment can be tricky, especially if you have older family members or kids that you don’t want to exclude. Resorting to pulling out all of the stops with lawn games or outdoor activities isn’t the only option; you can save your heels (and your ankles!) by going outside-the-box with creative alternatives!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
