5 Ways To Personalize Your Wedding Reception

wedding reception personalized with lots of tiny lights

Everybody loves a good party. And a beautiful, entertaining, inviting wedding reception will be the best party you’ll ever throw! But we know it’s not just a party. There will be plenty of those in your future, but none will compare to this one. The celebration of your commitment to one another and your amazing future that lies ahead with each other and all of these wonderful friends and family. Since this day is about you and your best friend it’s a perfect opportunity to make it personal! No need to feel overwhelmed. Start by checking out these 5 clever ways to personalize your wedding reception.

1. Reception decor that screams YOU!

Consider what the two of you love. Think of your hobbies, favorite movies, down time activities, sports teams, how you met, your weekend go-to, the colors and styles you’re drawn to, anything the two of you love. And then find fun and unique ways to share that with your guests.

Do you love nature? Use florals, greenery, and woodsy designs all across your venue. Place greenery on your tables, drape from the head table, or even hang beautifully from the ceiling! Not a fan of flowers? Go with greenery and rustic accents instead. There is no perfect recipe.

Do your tastes trend more classic? Whites and blacks set a tasteful, classic theme. Use tall candles and gold chargers. Channel your inner beauty and the beast.

bride tailors reception lighting and decor to personalize the experience greenery flowers lighting and a kiss

Do you love western? Cow hides, bohemian pompous grass, cacti, and deep oranges are a great way to show your personality and style. Create a dreamy atmosphere by incorporating what you love. And don’t forget to ask your wedding planner for help! Or, if I am your photographer, please ask me for help as I would love to assist you in any way!

Not every wedding needs to be classic and white. If you love color–go for it! Color can set the stage for explosive fun!

2. Fantastic food to personalize your wedding reception!

Every great party needs some great food! Pick your favorites! Taco trucks? Yep! Ice cream bar? Mmmhmm! Fillet mignon? Bring it. Select your favorite food and find a way to share that yumminess with your guests.

My husband and I had a donut tree at our reception. He LOVES donuts so it was only fitting to share that circle of love with the ones we love 🙂

3. Special atmosphere with a great DJ!

A great DJ changes everything. He practically changes the oxygen in the room. He or she creates total magic! So move that vendor towards the top of your list. And don’t stop until you find a good DJ.

Find someone who really understands your style, your values, and personality. Share with them the songs you like and feel represent you. Their job is to get the party going…keep it going and set the tone of the reception. Make sure that tone sounds perfect to your ears.

4. An extra special thanks to your guests.

Fun party favors are a hit! From honey to candy, trees to flowers, candles to succulents, I have seen it all! And it doesn’t have to be expensive or extravagant. Focus on the details and keep it simple.

Think about something special from your ceremony, a treat that ties in with the theme of your reception, a family recipe, or consider something special about you as a couple and share that with the ones you love!

5. Embrace the location!

Most venues come with a challenge of some sort. But don’t panic. You can get creative and use that head-scratcher to your advantage. Remember the experts say, “It’s not the venue, but what you do with the venue that counts.”

Does your venue have that one funky wall? Or that sign that you wish wasn’t there? Maybe the venue just feels a little bare. Have no fear! These are just tiny speed bumps or small creative obstacles to really get you thinking about another way to showcase your personality at your reception!

personalize your wedding location even if it's in the middle of a field like this one

Bohemian brides can hang a beautiful macrame over that sign. Or earthy brides and grooms can use a wall of wildflowers. Maybe it’s a spot where you could hang Edison bulbs. No venue is perfect. No matter what challenge you face at your venue, use it as another chance to make your space feel like you.

Are you starting to see it in your mind? The ceremony, the reception venue, the yummy food and special decor, the music, the lights. Ah!! Your wonderful day sparkling from top to bottom with personalized touches that reflect your excitement for the future and your love. Your wonderful day will be special for everyone because you added your care and thoughtfulness to every aspect. When you personalize your wedding reception you bring everyone into your world.