Between the toasts, the cake-cutting, the First Dance and more, there’s a lot to keep you all busy on your wedding day. Most couples want to have the festivities while also making time to actually spend time with their guests! You may be surprised to hear this, but it’s actually more difficult than you think. You may feel pulled in different directions, needing to be in multiple places and pose for photos and things. The first thing out the door is casually hanging out with your loved ones!
But, with careful planning, you can carve out time to socialise with your guests at your wedding. Here’s how…
Pad your timeline
With a strict order of events, it’s important to include room to breathe. We always recommend adding a buffer to your timeline to accommodate any delays, but also to make space to socialise with your guests on your wedding day.
You can’t assume that there will be time to hangout with everyone. You actually need to plan it in, or you’ll find that you are jumping from one activity to the next.
Use cocktail hour wisely
Generally, this space is for guests to have a drink and relax before the reception dinner, while the couple has photos taken. If you want to make the most of this time and spend it with your guests, here are two ways you can do it:
- Have a ‘First Look’ and get all your couples’ portraits and wedding party photos taken before the ceremony.
- Make your cocktail hour a little longer, so you can spend time with guests after you’ve had photos taken.
The receiving line
We love this idea because it gives you face to face time with all your guests! It’ll be quick though, but still very special.
During the receiving line, you and your partner will stand on one side while your guests line up to greet you. You could do this after the ceremony or before the reception – whatever fits your timeline.
Consider dinner time
There’s nothing more special than sharing a meal time with your nearest and dearest. To do this, you’ll need to consider the layout of the venue and where you plan to sit.
While a sweetheart table is a beautiful way to get quality time with your partner, it will limit how much time you get to spend with guests. If socialising with your guests on your wedding day is a priority, then consider sitting with your wedding party. This way, you’ll get to enjoy chatting with them over the meal.
And then make your way around the venue, chatting with guests at their tables too!
Group activities
Sure, you’ll celebrate with guests while you’re dancing and partying together, but it’s harder to engage with them in this space. This is where interactive experiences come in!
A great way to socialise with your guests at your wedding is to incorporate some activities you can do together. This could be simple things like a photo booth, lawn games, an interactive food bar or bonfire!
Expand the wedding
By hosting wedding-adjacent activities, you’ll give yourself more opportunities to socialise with your guests at your wedding. This could be a breakfast the morning after or a full on Day Two experience.
Whatever you choose, you’ll end up with more time to hangout with guests who have travelled just to be with you!
