You'll learn how to have a fun wedding reception your guests will love and truly enjoy. Most wedding receptions can be somewhat boring for guests at times, but with these tips, you'll learn how to actually make your guests relax and really enjoy the party

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EAT!
Not a lot of people like to sit and wait for the wedding reception to begin. Since the bride and groom usually get several photos taken after the ceremony, the party usually takes quite a while to begin. Why not have music already playing when the guests arrive to set the mood. How about some drinks and hors d' oeuvres so they don't get hungry and cranky. Want to make them really happy? Why not have them start dinner before you arrive! Granted, it's not very traditional, but by the time the last guests are getting through the line, the happy couple should be arriving. That being said, I highly suggest going the buffet route vs.. having dinner served to the guests. By having a buffet, guests can pick whatever they'd like to eat, and as much/little as they'd like. By being able to eat what they like and however much of it they want, you're sure to have a fun reception your guests will love!
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DRINK!
It's important to have lots of beverage choices at your wedding reception. Sodas, coffee, and punch are the norms. But if you plan on having alcohol, do your guests a favor and try to have at least one alcohol drink option that's free for them. If you can afford it, an open bar is much appreciated by most guests. If you can't afford it, why not offer free champagne for the toasts. It doesn't have to be top of the line champagne, even some nice wine works great! If you have a little more to spend, why not also offer free beer? A keg or two wouldn't cost nearly as much as a full open bar would, and several guests would likely enjoy it!
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AND BE MERRY!
In order to get the party started, it's key to have great music! Make sure to invest some time into choosing the right dj or band. I went to a wedding where the dj had equipment issues and the mood was really dampened. Make sure you hire a pro who has lots of experience. Why not put a line on the rsvp cards for guests to fill in a favorite song or two they'd like to hear at the wedding reception? Also, have lots of different kinds of music (oldies, current tunes, party favorites, etc) and you will have a reception your guests will love!
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BE ORIGINAL!
*Think about the weather. If it's summer and going to be hot, really consider having the reception indoors at an air-conditioned location. Nobody can enjoy themselves if they're too busy wiping sweat off their faces every 5 minutes!
*Put disposable cameras at the tables . Your guests will have fun taking snapshots of each other and of the happy couple.
*Instead of the usual clinking of the glasses or ringing of bells to get the newlyweds to kiss, why not try something different? Noisemakers, party blowers, etc.
*If you insist on giving your guests favors give them something useful. Flower seeds and personalized packets of marinade for grilling are just a couple of ideas.
*Don't assign your guests seats....let them sit where they want....trust me.
*I highly suggest thinking twice about inviting children. Yes, they're wonderful, adorable, and cute as can be. But usually after a couple of hours at a wedding reception, they get bored. Kids darting and running around, being extra loud, and occasionally crying can annoy some guests.
*Last but not least, relax and enjoy the big day! Be as flexible and easy going as you can and it should make things a lot easier and more enjoyable!