52 Tips for Planning Your Wedding Reception

Here's how to make your party unforgettable for everyone—and easy for you.

By 

Thinkingboxx Team

PHOTO: Negi 

You might think that once you've planned your ceremony, preparing for the reception will be a piece of wedding cake. As exciting as the process can be, though, organizing the party portion of your wedding day requires a lot of work. With plenty of vendors, venues, menu selections, and décor ideas to choose from (and seating arrangements to consider!) the reception planning process requires collaboration, attention to detail, and lots of up-front preparation.

When you start to feel overwhelmed, turn to our collection of wedding reception planning tips, put together by our experienced team. We're walking you through what to buy, who to talk to, and when to do everything. Our goal is to help you create a budget, coordinate, and follow a timeline expertly and efficiently so you can enjoy your special day—your party, especially.

 

01of 52

Tackle Big Tasks First

Your immediate "to do" list: Book the venue, hire a caterer, and decide on basic décor. Caterers often have several sample menus at different price points to choose from, so start by reviewing their options. When selecting food, aim for a variety of options so that the menu appeals to many different tastes. This isn't the time to serve all vegan foods if your guests are largely carnivores.

Make sure you have signed contracts from all your vendors and that you've read the fine print and resolved any questions. With these major tasks done, you'll be ready to focus on smaller details.

02of 52

Pick a Venue

EMILIA JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Once you've got an approximate wedding date, start scouting venues. Know your budget and have a rough guest count in mind, as well as the reception style you prefer, such as formal seated, buffet, cocktail party, or food stations.

03of 52

Create a Timeline

BRYAN GARDNER

After you figure out what you'll do when, write it all on a timeline and give it to your photographer and reception site manager. This puts everyone on the same clock the day-of. Also let the manager know when to expect vendor deliveries, such as cake, flowers, and party rentals.

YOUR ULTIMATE WEDDING-PLANNING TIMELINE

04of 52

Take Stock of Your Location

LAUREN GALLOWAY PHOTOGRAPHY

 Do a walk-through of your venue as soon as you're able, noting features to highlight—a grand staircase, beautiful chandeliers, or a grove of trees, perhaps—and areas that need to be spruced up or downplayed.

05of 52

Make Use of the Pool

If there's a pool at your wedding reception, take care to dress it up a little bit—or make it the wow moment of your party. This might look like filling it with floating lights for an ambient effect, adding flower arrangements around the perimeter, or even hiring synchronized swimmers for a wow moment.

06of 52

Book Your Florist and Party Rentals

KELSEA HOLDER PHOTOGRAPHY

We recommend choosing your florist a minimum of six months ahead of time. It's also a good idea to reserve your party rentals around the same time or shortly thereafter. You can do some light research leading up to booking to determine which companies you'd like to go with.

07of 52

Day-Of Paper Goods

ASHLEY LUDAESCHER

Be sure to order the reception stationery. This includes table (escort) cards, place cards, menus, table numbers, and favor tags. Plan to write out table and place cards after all the RSVPs come in.

08of 52

Get Glowing

JANINE LICARE PHOTOGRAPHY

Lighting can make or break an event, but to create the right ambience, you don't necessarily need to hire professionals to cast patterns on the dance floor. You can set the mood simply by flanking an outdoor walkway with dozens of luminaria or setting dining tables with elegant candelabra or clusters of small candles; you might also replace harsh white bulbs in fixtures with more flattering amber ones.

OUTDOOR WEDDING LIGHTING IDEAS FROM REAL CELEBRATIONS

09of 52

Dress Up Your Entryway

JENNIE RAFF PHOTOGRAPHY

Elegant front-door decorations, which can be as low-key as swags of greenery or lanterns leading toward your venue, serve as a visual welcome whether adorning a building or a tent and ensure that everyone's first glimpse of the party is from its best vantage point.

10of 52

Don't Overlook Small Details

LISA ZIESING FOR ABBY JIU

A few well-placed touches, such as monogrammed cocktail napkins or a palette-friendly favor at each table setting, can go a long way toward making your party look extra-special. Also, be sure to assemble all the reception goods ahead of time including favors, a guest book, cake knife, toasting flutes, and signs.

WANT TO WOW YOUR WEDDING GUESTS? PAY LESS ATTENTION TO THESE FIVE DETAILS AND FOCUS MORE ON THIS ONE INSTEAD

11of 52

Think Outside the Box

JENNY FOR KRISTEN MARIE PARKER

A vessel of fresh fruit makes a stunning and unexpected alternative to a traditional floral centerpiece, and one long banquet table may fit a sleekly modern space better than several round ones do.

23 NON-FLORAL WEDDING CENTERPIECE IDEAS

12of 52

Make a Seating Chart

LIZ BANFIELD

Creating a seating chart can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be if you start the chart as soon as RSVPs begin arriving. Look for ways that allow you to change things easily at the last minute. For example, these seating cards keep names and table numbers separate, so you can shift guests' assignments without having to rewrite the cards.

13of 52

Send Save-the-Dates

LISA ZIESING FOR ABBY JIU PHOTOGRAPHY

With everyone's schedule so busy these days, sending save-the-dates can help ensure your guests are able to attend your big day. They're especially important if you are planning a destination wedding or marrying on a holiday. Ideally, mail out these announcements at least four months before the wedding to ensure the guests you really want to attend the celebration will be able to attend.

22 CREATIVE SAVE-THE-DATES TO KICK OFF YOUR WEDDING

14of 52

Invite Carefully

Be prepared: Up to 80 to 90% of those invited may attend. (The smaller the list, the more yes replies you should expect percentage-wise. This is because you'll likely invite only those closest to you.)

15of 52

Map Out Your Space

RACHEL HAVEL

Be sure you have ample room for tables. Figure 10 to 15 square feet per person, assuming that the tables are round and seat six to 10 guests. Also check that the dance floor is big enough. Aim for about four to five square feet per guest.

7 FLOOR PLAN SECRETS TO AN AWESOME WEDDING RECEPTION

16of 52

Arrange for a Backup

LISA ZIESING FOR ABBY JIU

Planning an outdoor reception? You can't count on sunshine, so either reserve a tent or opt for a location with an indoor alternative in the event of inclement weather.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RENTING A WEDDING TENT

17of 52

Enlist Help

Even if you've decided against an overall wedding planner, you'll want a cool-headed pro on hand to ask guests to be seated for dinner, help organize toasts, and handle any problems. Ask if your venue can provide this service. If not, some independent planners will work for a single day.

18of 52

Rethink Your Guest Book

A traditional wedding guest book is always an option, but we suggest considering something more unexpected. Opt for an interactive experience such as a recorded message (recorded through a vintage phone) or art, like this couple did with a group painting station. Alternatively, ask your guests to take a Polaroid picture and tape it into a blank notebook—so you have a visual remdiner of the big day, instead of a written one.

19of 52

Determine When You'll Take Portraits

DONNA LAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Figure out when to do bridal party and family photos. There's nothing worse than missing your entire cocktail hour because you're taking photos. Talk to your photographer about timing.

20of 52

Don't Let the Seams Show

RACHEL SOLOMON PHOTOGRAPHY

If possible, designate a separate cocktail area and close the reception space to early arrivals. To create a sense of drama, neither you nor your guests should see the behind-the-scenes machinations and last-minute setup gaffes. Keeping the doors closed will also let your photographer take unhurried shots of the reception décor before the crowd arrives.

Also, think about when to open the dance floor. Will it be after dessert is served or between courses? Plan on allowing time for any special dances, too, like the first dance and the father-daughter dance

21of 52

Whip Up Affordable Favors

JOE GOGER

Stylish tokens needn't be expensive. This bride's stepmother made rose-petal jelly for the favors by filling small canning jars with the treat and then dressing up with floral fabric and twine to keep with the shabby-chic style of the celebration. A kraft paper tag read, "Spread the love," in the shape of Texas, where the wedding took place.

22of 52

Go for Daytime Drama

Many venues charge more for after-dark affairs. With an outdoor reception, if you opt for a luncheon event, you'll also cut back on or eliminate costs associated with lighting, such as setup and generators. These over-sized paper pom poms make just as big a statement as twinkling lights.

23of 52

Narrow Your Tables

EVONNE & DARREN WONG

By seating diners family-style at long tables no wider than 36 inches, you'll shrink the amount of empty space to decorate, cutting down on centerpiece costs. Guests will still have plenty of room and will find conversation easier as well.

24of 52

Figure Out Your Centerpieces

KERRY JEANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Locally available flowers are usually the most affordable, as are simple arrangements. Also, there's no reason why ceremony flowers can't come to the reception. Ask for altar arrangements that will also complement the party site. Alternatively, your florist may be able to re-fashion them into small gift bouquets for your bridal party.

THE 7 MOST POPULAR TYPES OF WEDDING CENTERPIECES, EXPLAINED

25of 52

Play With Time

LANG THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

You'll save on liquor, food, and possibly vendor fees if you shave 30 minutes or an hour off the party. So it doesn't feel rushed, cut a little from everything. For example, make the cocktail hour a 45-minute event, instead of eliminating the event altogether.

Your guests have already spent hours, if not days, at pre-wedding events and at the ceremony itself, so they're likely to be tired. Though you may wish the reception would never end, it should last no more than five hours. Also, make it clear that any after-parties you schedule are entirely optional.

26of 52

Consider a Full-Service Deal

KERRY JEANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

If you're filling an empty space, you'll need things like chairs, tables, linens, and dishes. You can save money and effort by borrowing as much as you can from the venue itself. A site with a fee that includes necessities, such as linens and furniture may at first appear more expensive than an a la carte venue, but once you factor in rental fees, you may ultimately keep costs down.

27of 52

Stay in One Place

ABBY JIU

Have your wedding and reception in the same location. You'll spend less on décor, as well as on transportation costs for you and your wedding attendants.

28of 52

Rethink Humble Decorations

ACQUA PHOTO

Balloons have long been used to fill party spaces at low cost. For a sophisticated feel, opt for a few large balloons instead of masses of birthday-party-style ones. Those with a diameter of 36 inches have an elegant globe shape.

29of 52

Put Big Smiles on Little Faces

JOHNNY MILLER

Young guests will enjoy goodies that are all theirs. Give budding brainiacs a potted succulent pet (they're resilient enough for youngsters to care for) and magnifying glasses to inspect their new green friends. Spark creativity by offering coloring books, crayons, and colored pencils.

30of 52

Decide If You Want Your Arrival to Be Announced

KT MERRY

If you love the tradition of following your bridal party into the reception to an upbeat song, work out the details with your DJ or bandleader in advance.

THESE ARE THE SONGS THAT PACK A WEDDING DANCE FLOOR, ACCORDING TO THE PROS

31of 52

Eschew the Receiving Line

RACHEL HAVEL

If you will be hosting more than 50 people, the traditional meet-and-greet can take an hour or more. For groups of this size, it's more gracious of the newlyweds to thank guests by visiting every table.

32of 52

Plan the Toasts

PAIGE VAUGHN PHOTO

An unplanned ramble can interrupt the flow of a party and make everyone uncomfortable. Encourage spur-of-the-moment speeches at the rehearsal dinner so the reception includes only words from the host, the newlyweds, and the best man and maid of honor. If you're concerned that your speakers may overindulge, schedule toasts to take place early in the festivities.

90 SHORT AND SWEET LOVE QUOTES THAT WILL SPEAK VOLUMES AT YOUR WEDDING

33of 52

Break the Ice

ELIZABETH MESSINA PHOTOGRAPHY

At a less formal reception, a short written quiz about you and your new husband can get conversation started between guests who don't know one another. Include questions about where you met and how he proposed.

34of 52

Add Thoughtful Extras

JESSICA MANGIA

A few small comfort items are always appreciated. Consider stashing a basket of inexpensive slippers near the dance floor for women who are tired of their high heels. Have hand lotion, tissues, or hairspray in the restrooms. At an outdoor fête, stock sunscreen, bug repellent, paper fans, and perhaps even a few cozy wraps for the women in case of a sudden evening chill.

35of 52

Restrain Yourselves

BO SHIM PHOTOGRAPHY

Less is more when it comes to a wedding reception, so consider ditching the 30-minute video montage or the fireworks display for something less elaborate. Even a gesture as simple as distributing sparklers at night's end can charm guests and keep them from feeling overloaded.

AMAZING FIREWORKS AND SPARKLERS FROM REAL WEDDINGS

36of 52

Keep Your Helpers Happy

AARON DELESIE

Your hospitality should extend to photographers, videographers, waiters, and musicians, as well as any other vendors working at your reception. Make sure they have water, scheduled breaks, and, most important, a meal. It need not be the same one that you're serving to guests, but it should be nourishing and delicious.

37of 52

Offer Small Amusements

DANA FERNANDEZ

Unexpected entertainment is wonderful when your guests tire of dancing. A portrait station of do-it-yourself Polaroids, a cigar roller, or a strolling palm reader can offer a touch of surprise and whimsy.

38of 52

Have Fun with Finger Food

JENNIE RAFF PHOTOGRAPHY

Hors d'oeuvres are best when they are easy to serve and eat. And since you're offering a choice, go ahead and pick something exotic; plan on about six options and six pieces per person.

39of 52

Show Off a Beautiful Cake

JESSICA CLAIRE

You may be able to afford a premium baker even on a tight budget. Skip labor-intensive iced decorations and ask for a simpler style, then dress it up fresh flowers or ribbon. Be sure the flowers you use are food safe and pesticide-free. You'll also need to figure out when to cut the cake. Usually it's served right after it's cut as dessert or after dessert.

40of 52

Be Seated

BLAINE SIESSER

If your budget allows, pampering guests with a plated meal instead of a buffet is an especially nice gesture. If you'd prefer a buffet, be sure to have enough serving stations to prevent long lines, and ask your caterer to prepare and serve plates of food for any elderly guests in attendance. Don't forget to give your caterer the guest count about two weeks before the wedding day, after the last of the RSVPs have arrived.

33 PRETTY AND UNEXPECTED WEDDING MENU IDEAS

41of 52

Set Up a Nonalcoholic Bar

THIS MODERN ROMANCE

For an event that includes many children or abstaining adults, consider having a separate table with sparkling and flat water, as well as a spirit-free version of your signature drink if you're serving one.

YOUR ULTIMATE WEDDING RECEPTION CHECKLIST

42of 52

Streamline the Bar

HEATHER WARAKSA

There's no need at many weddings to stock your bar with a full selection of liquor. A red and a white wine, a sparkling wine, and a signature cocktail are plenty, and they're economical to boot. You can also create a signature drink that's festive and personal to you and the groom.

43of 52

Stick With One Entree

ELIZABETH MESSINA PHOTOGRAPHY

It's perfectly acceptable (and more budget-friendly) to offer a single entree instead of letting guests choose from among a few. Arrange to have a "silent" vegetarian option on hand in case people ask for it.

44of 52

Limit Your Courses

ANYA KERNES

Unless the meal will be the focus of the evening, as with an intimate party at a five-star restaurant, your menu can consist of an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert. The last could even be the wedding cake.

45of 52

Serve a Mini Meal

MATOLI KEELY

If you choose to have an after-party, you'll need to provide refreshments, such as a light buffet of snacks or breakfast treats. Plan on enough for about one-quarter to one-third of your total original invitees.

46of 52

Have It Both Ways

MASSON LIANG

Can't decide—or can't agree—on whether to have live entertainment or a DJ? Split the difference and hire musicians for cocktails and a disc jockey for dancing. You should also ask them what they're going to wear. Most DJs or bands will don tuxedos or suits, but it's best to clarify attire with them to avoid surprises. For a casual event, such as a beach reception, you may want them in something less formal.

47of 52

Build the Best Band

SHANNON MOFFIT PHOTOGRAPHY

If you're hiring a cover band, a good one requires at least seven pieces. A male and a female vocalist, plus guitar, bass, keyboard, trumpet or sax, and drums generally make the most versatile combination.

48of 52

Offer Music Guidelines

REBECCA THERESA PHOTOGRAPHY

If there are specific songs you must hear, make a list beforehand for your band or deejay. Are there tunes you absolutely don't want? Draw up a do-not-play list, as well. Also, check that the venue has enough power and outlets for the musicians. You don't want an electrical outage to stop the music!

49of 52

Keep Mealtime Tunes Soft

LA VIE PHOTOGRAPHY

If your entertainers aren't taking a break during this time, they should be considerate of diners by turning down the mike and avoiding any energetic selections.

50of 52

Toss and Throw

KURT BOOMER

Decide if you'll do a garter toss, bouquet throw, or other staple traditions. Make sure the appropriate person knows that you want these to occur and if there's a specific time you prefer them to take place.

51of 52

Depart in Style

Ask your site manager beforehand whether rice, rose petals, sparklers, and the like are allowed. When it comes time to leave, have someone round up guests and pass out props, then say a heartfelt goodbye.

Make sure you've designated someone, such as the best man, to distribute gratuity envelopes you've prepared at party's end. You'll need to tip all service providers, including the catering and reception staff (unless gratuity is added to the total bill), cleanup crew, and limousine drivers.