Perhaps one of the greatest gifts we can give others is the gift of a wonderful experience. A time they’ll remember (and smile about) for the rest of their lives.

That’s powerful.

And what better place to do that, than a wedding reception?

We’ve got 5 tips – five crucial “ingredients,” – to make your reception last decades, living a long happy life in the minds of friends, family, and loved ones who were there enjoying every moment alongside you.

How do you want your reception to be remembered?

Before we get into it, it’s worth considering. What kinds of memories do you want to create? What emotions do you want to stir up? Of course, you want laughter and fun, joy and revelry. But maybe you also want a few moments where your guests get teary-eyed during a sentimental moment; a raw honest expression of love.

Perhaps you want them to remember the way they felt when they first saw your décor, how the white roses, soft flickering candles, and sheer curtains draped from exposed beams of the high ceiling took their breath away.

That, coupled with soft delicate notes plucked from the strings of a harp, followed by a sip of champagne…

A memorable reception plays into the senses. Sight, sound, taste… use that to your advantage, and create an excellent all-encompassing experience.

Take a moment or two to think about the emotions you’d like to accompany the memories.

Joy and love for example; a great place to start.

1. The Venue

Your venue has a huge impact on how memorable the reception will be.

You want a place that allows you to decorate to your taste, perhaps play into a theme – more on that next.

There’s no denying the effect architecture has on human beings. A rooftop terrace for example. A spot like that is almost guaranteed to be memorable, for all the right reasons.

What’s the backdrop of all your best memories? Did they take place somewhere in nature – a beach perhaps? A stately building with a wraparound porch and immaculate lawn? A cool downtown brick building that was renovated just enough, but it still has original floors and old pane glass windows that let abundant afternoon light spill in?

Your wedding reception is a memory you’ll cherish forever.

Where should it take place?

2. Theme

Everyone loves a good theme. It’s a unique and fun way to guarantee your reception will stand out. Even people who may not be into whatever your theme is – say Star Wars, or a certain era, like the 1920s – are sure to appreciate and get a kick out of it nonetheless.

Choosing a certain aesthetic is great too. While most decor tends to be more subtle than an all-out theme, those are the details that elevate the space. Like jewelry plays up a little black dress, the décor you choose can transform the venue.

Your theme or aesthetic can be brought to life in other details, such as your bridesmaids dresses. If you’re unsure where to find the perfect dress, check out Bella Bridesmaids. They have an impressive collection of stunners in every style imaginable.

Draw inspiration from what you find beautiful, romantic… again, refer to the feelings you want to evoke with the memory, and you can’t go wrong.

3. Food

Food, a universal language of love. A feast for the senses in every sense of the word. More than just providing necessary fuel your guests need for a night on the dance floor, the food you choose can be beautiful to look at, and smell good too.

If your wedding is themed, say you’re going for a cool outdoor festival vibe, why not hire a couple food trucks? Or, perhaps there’s a meal that’s significant – or even a restaurant that you can’t get enough of, who’s agreed to cater.

Pair your food with some wine, or create a signature cocktail. Beer works as well, especially for the food truck festival vibe.

4. Dancing & Music

Music adds life to the reception. Whether you hire a DJ, band, or create a song list –  a compilation of all the greats – your reception needs music. If you hire a DJ or band, let them know your favorite songs and type of music – and while you’re at it, let them know what not to play.

You’re free to incorporate the music you love, and perhaps toss in a few classics.

To make it even more memorable, why not choreograph your first dance?

5. Parting Gifts

It’s nice to send your guests home with something that reminds them of how much fun they had.  It doesn’t have to be anything big or outlandish, a sweet little potted succulent or a bottle of wine with a custom label will do. Even something you crafted. Perfect.

People are always touched by unexpected gifts – it’s all about the gesture like a wedding dress, cakes etc. It’s the thought that counts, as they say.

Conclusion:

Remember, there’s no need to go overboard. Let your personality show. Choose the details you love. Relish in this joyous occasion, a time where stress and troubles are forgotten. This is a celebration, a gift. Both the experience itself and the lasting memories.

Truly. What better memories are there than the ones where you’re surrounded by everyone you love, having fun, celebrating?

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