Good afternoon Time to mingle, wine & dine Joseph Two for Unsplash MUSIC TO YOUR EARS Musical entertainment is a great option for your drinks reception. One idea here is to book your ceremony musicians to say on, switching up the vibe and repertoire to set the scene for the ensuing celebrations. If you opted to keep the tunes classical for the “I dos,” now’s the chance for them to let loose with versions of modern hits – Disney classics are always popular. Your guests will have fun naming that tune! Acoustic musicians work wonderfully well in this setting providing a laidback air, the perfect background for chatting and sipping on Champagne. Singers too can create a lovely, mellow ambience, perfect for a sunny day. Nothing sets the celebratory tone like a roaming brass band. Have them meet you as you exit the ceremony and process you and your guests Madis Gras-style over to your ceremony space. This works best when your venue has gorgeous grounds to enjoy. THE CLASSICS Magicians are popular for this part of the day for a good reason. They provide a wonderful icebreaker as guests join in marvelling at the jawdropping tricks they’re witnessing. They’ll also make for a talking point long after the day has drawn to a close with folks still musing: “How on earth did they do that?” A caricaturist, illustrator or silhouette artist also offers a great way to keep loved ones occupied. Not only is this an entertaining experience for the subjects of the artwork, but other guests will also enjoy gathering around watching the artist at work. Plus, there’s the added benefit of a keepsake for loved ones to treasure. FUN AND GAMES Vintage lawn games provide ample fun for all ages. Think giant Connect4 and Jenga to name only two. Fairground style attractions, such as hooka-duck and coconut shy will also have everyone queuing up for their turn. Have a look for local suppliers and see what ideas they have to offer for hire to save you a world of time and effort. Mini or crazy golf is a classic, and some suppliers even offer weddingthemed obstacles. You’ll be rushing back from your photo shoot to take your turn! For more wedding themed fun, shop around for a wedding-white bouncy castle. Kids young and old will love it and don’t miss the opportunity for some hilarious shots as you and your new spouse or bridesmaids take a turn! If you love this idea, why not go all out with It’s a Knockout-style inflatables? Seeing our nearest and dearest get megacompetitive, while trying to maintain dignity in their wedding gear, will be a sight we guarantee you’ll never forget! Balint Mendlik for Unsplash AL FRESCO AIR If you’re hosting a drinks reception outside, check with your musicians what they’ll need on site. For example, if they need access to electricity, this will need to be worked out with the venue in terms of where they can set up. It may also be helpful to provide them with shade if the day is forecast to be a hot one. Andy Quezada for Unsplash wayfair.co.uk THE YOUNG ONES Don’t forget your mini guests. Boredom is the enemy of any wedding when it comes to the little ones, so be sure to keep them occupied! Enlist the help of a wedding creche service, allowing you peace of mind that the children are safe and sound and having the time of their lives with activities aplenty. If you prefer to go DIY, set up a chill out corner for them with a tipi den, colouring and crafts station, or hire a face painter to add to their fun. “Love a competitive element? We recommend an archery range, axe throwing or claypigeon shooting competition. These bring a brilliantly themed approach to a country estate wedding.” 38
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