Post Ceremony Pre Dinner - How to entertain your guests during the Drinks Reception!

Every Brides is unique. Different styles, different people with a huge array of options to choose from. However, something that doesn't tend to differ much is the run of the day when it comes to Bridess, especially those in Ireland. Firstly it's the ceremony, then the photographs and drinks reception, dinner, band and DJ. If you ask guests about their experiences of Bridess, something that is always reported on is the drinks reception.....was it too long, was their entertainment or music, were people starving by the time dinner came around? No one wants their guests feeling bored or hungry!! So here a few things to consider to ensure a successful, enjoyable and a just fabulous drinks reception!

 

 

Photo Credit: ilovemymarriage.nl

 

 

Food & Drink

 

Let's be realistic here - your guests won't have had lunch and the stretch to dinner is far too long, especially for people who are going to start drinking alcohol early enough. Scones and biscuits will not suffice. If canapés are an option at your venue, opt for these and ensure there are plenty to go around. It is wise to point out someone should set some aside for those having their photographs taken as the food will go very fast.

 

It is wise to limit what can be drank at the drinks reception. When the complimentary drinks are over, people do head to the bar. Perhaps discuss with your venue what can and cannot be served during this time. A big 'no' to shots or cocktails, in my opinion. Guests with very little food with a long day ahead of them aren't going to come out the right end if they are drinking heavily early on. Heavy drinking can also result from boredom and waiting around,  this is why the next step is the most important!
 

 

 

Photo Credit: It's A Bride's Life

Entertainment

 

Bridess are a day out for your guests so they should be entertained to ensure that they enjoy the day just as much as you do. There are plenty of options for your entertainment at this time. Here are a few of my favourites:

 

Harpists - For a traditional Irish feel to a Brides you are sure to get that with the beautiful harp. Harpists do book up fast however. A lot will do a deal incorporating the Church and the drinks reception. Check out Seana Davey and Ceoltoiri Carolan.

 

Swing/Jazz Band - This will ensure that your guests are jiving and feeling in the party mood. Some of the top bands of 2013 are Bugle Babes and Trio Royale.

 

Choir - Currently loving The Dublin Gospel Choir, they are without a shadow of a doubt hugely entertaining and an alternative style gospel choir. You can have your pick of singers and choose how many you would like at your drinks reception.

Magicians or Comedians - This is a great ice breaker for when families don't know each other that well. Seems like a little off the wall but this type of entertainment is becoming hugely more popular more recently. Check out Ruairi O'Connor.

 

The Bugle Babes

Bridal Party

The bridal party will be required for a few photographs but it will majority be the Bride and Groom who will be gone for the longest time. Nominate your bridesmaids and ushers to take care of particular aspects of the drinks reception. Bathroom baskets will need to be taken care of if they haven't already, the honeymoon suite will need decorating if you are doing this also. It is important to ensure the VIP guests have drinks, that the Granddad's and Grandma's are being looked after and that someone is watching over the children! Before the dinner venue staff may have questions regarding the Brides so would be useful for someone to know any special requirements. Bridal Party members can make sure that the drinks reception runs smoothly.

Dinofa Photography

Make sure your drinks reception is enjoyable for you and your guests as it is the start of your big day and is sure to set the tone for the rest of the festivities ahead!



 

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Write by: Unknown - Monday, November 18, 2013