Reception Ideas for a Wedding During The COVID Pandemic
In the coming months, weddings are going to feel and look a lot different. The days of crowded dance floors where once the standard, guests are now observing social distancing guidelines and spending more time at their tables, leading couples and wedding pros to come up with alternative wedding reception entertainment ideas to liven up events. Thankfully, there are lots of options to choose from. Couples are incorporating multiple entertainment moments to surprise and satisfy. Guests will likely be watching more than participating, so make sure there are many opportunities for your loved ones to get up and stretch their legs during the reception.
It’s important to note that hiring a DJ is still absolutely essential, even if dancing isn’t going to be a major part of your reception entertainment. Your DJ will act as an emcee for the evening, and will play music for special dances and other important moments during your event.
These wedding reception entertainment ideas are sure to satisfy your guests.
Special Dances
The first dance and parent dances are highlights of any wedding reception, and they can still go forward during social distancing guidelines. Guests wouldn’t join the couple and their parents on the dance floor during these dances, but can watch and dance along from their seats.
Toasts
Customarily, the father of the bride, the maid of honor, and the best man give speeches during the reception. Less dancing means more time for speeches and toasts. If you’re having a micro wedding, you could even ask each and every guest to say a few words. Those joining the event via Zoom can also be included, sharing a story or memory of the couple. And of course, the newlyweds should definitely give a thank-you speech to their loved ones for attending.
Music Zones
If you’re getting married at a larger venue, you might consider setting up different-themed music areas that your DJ controls. These zones can be set up as lounges where guests can relax.
Stand-Up Comedian
We all could use a laugh right about now! One of our favorite wedding reception entertainment ideas is to hire a local stand-up comedian to perform a short set while guests are enjoying dinner. You can even share funny stories about your relationship and your guests with the performer in advance, so they can personalize their jokes for your event.
Pre-Produced Videos
Your guests who are unable to attend your wedding in-person will still want to find a special way to share some love. A wedding party member can ask your loved ones to create short videos in your honor, which your videographer can compile into an edited film. These videos can be as simple as your grandparents sharing a short speech or as elaborate as your cousins performing a choreographed dance.
Photo Montages
A slideshow of photos from throughout the couple’s childhood and relationship can be a real highlight of any wedding—and a tear-jerkers. It’s actually pretty easy to DIY your slideshow, or you can ask a tech-savvy loved one for assistance. Be sure to talk to your venue or DJ to make sure you have appropriate audio-visual equipment to show the slideshow during your reception.
Live Event Artists
A live event artist will paint a scene from your wedding during the event. Not only is it fun for your guests to watch the progression of the artwork, you’ll also receive a gorgeous painting to cherish in your home after the big day is over.
Magician
There are lots of magicians and illusionists that specialize adult events and will totally amaze your guests!
Unique Photo Booths
There is a lot of talk about the 360-degree photo booth, which captures your guests from all angles. This style of photo booth is safer than the standard option, as the images are taken from a distance by a professional and there’s no touch screen.
Table Games
Provide each table with some fun games to enjoy throughout the reception. Examples include Couple Trivia, Mad Libs or a personalized crossword puzzle. You can even set out some of your favorite games from childhood like Connect Four, Guess Who, Jenga, etc…
Shoe Game
For the wedding shoe game, the couple are seated in chairs back to back. They remove their shoes so each person is holding one of their own shoes and one of their partner’s. The emcee asks the couple questions (like “Who takes longer to get ready in the morning?” or “Who’s the better cook?”), and they raise either their own shoe or their partner’s shoe to answer.
Wine or Whiskey Tastings
Each table can be served a flight of wines or a variety of whiskeys. You can include printed materials on each wine or whiskey so that guests can learn more, or even have a whiskey expert on hand to guide your crew through the tasting.
I Believe: Pittsburgh Weddings are life changing celebrations that should be FUN and create great memories. Together we can take your dreams beyond your expectations by personalization, planning, and creative ideas. Contact Otto Productions -Pittsburgh Wedding DJ now to book your wedding or event at 724-417-4567 or
email frank@djotto.com. Visit our site at http://djotto.com/