We’ve all noticed that destination wedding entertainments have changed and evolved over time. Entertainments are sometimes what makes a destination wedding unique for its guests.
Good entertainment will not only make your guests amused throughout the reception, but will also act as an essential icebreaker. You may be likely to have guests who are not familiar with others guests in attendance, so putting out activities will encourage your friends and family to mingle and get to know each other a little bit. But one thing is always problematic: how can you make sure you find the perfect entertainment for all the different types of personalities, without going for stale options?
We’ve prepared a list of our favorite destination wedding entertainment ideas that we think elevate your wedding to the next level.
First off and obviously a live band
Many newly wedded couples choose to incorporate live music into their wedding reception in order to make their guests feel like they’re at a concert! Try and mix it up by picking a band or genre that veers from the standard wedding music – you may want to opt for a vintage jazz band or a retro funk group for a wedding in France for example. Keep in mind that music can be coordinated with your theme, that way it will perfectly complement the different outfits, decorations, and overall, the style.
What about a personal DJ or saxophonist?
Offer the possibility for your guests to discover the best of both worlds with renditions of their favorite songs, enhanced by a live element. A saxophonist could be the perfect contrast, his performance will add a funky, soulful vibe to your favorite tunes, you may also want to add in some percussion, vocals, or other brass instruments to bring it more energy to the typical DJ’s set. If it possible, try and coordinate the live addition to your desired theme – an electric guitarist would suit an industrial-chic destination wedding as an entertainment for example.
Or even a pianist?
Classic, and oh-so romantic. A pianist will add a luxurious element to your fancy affair, whether you’re aiming for a fairytale wedding in France theme or a funky and chic wedding night in Paris. You can have the pianist provide background music for a cocktail hour or your romantic first dance. For a more upbeat reception twist, opt for an unexpected rock keyboardist to shake up the crowd.
Funny and memorable caricatures
For the couples that enjoy art, hiring a reception caricature artist is the perfect destination wedding entertainment idea. With an easy set up a station for the artist to draw while being away from the commotion of the dance floor that will also double as a break area for your guests. Caricatures are funny and memorable, as an easygoing activity it will also serve as a customized wedding favor – feel creative with custom border including the couple names and the date and why not even offer digital downloads ?
Astonishing acrobats
Suspended aerialists and breathtaking contortionists are live performers that will improve the atmosphere of any wedding. Use the tall ceilings in your reception space for aerial silks or hoops or hire acrobats for example. Your friends and family will want to take pictures throughout the day.
What about a scavenger hunt?
By planning a pictural scavenger hunt you might encourage your guests to mingle with others they may not know for a “new friends selfie” or take a photo of their favorite centerpiece at the reception, of course everyone can follow along with the dedicated destination wedding hashtag. If kids are present, try to include them perhaps in a candy scavenger hunt for example. Also, be sure to limit this game to the reception only so your guests aren’t distracted and snapping photos during your ceremony.
An elegant cigar bar
Infuse your reception with a touch of old-school elegant class in the form of a worthy cigar bar. Also, be sure to stock the bar with a variety of flavors and blends so that your guests find their preferences. If your wedding is a wedding in Paris, try and coordinate the different flavors to the typical flavors that you may find in France. Why not as an added bonus, hire a cigar-friendly bartender to advise your friends and family on the best cocktails to pair with their cigar?
Spread s’more love at your reception, we’re sure that kids are going to enjoy this activity! Cue the campfire and welcome in your guests of all ages with warm blankets and sweet treats — but not too sweet as we all know how kids react to sugar! This activity is the best suited for a late fall or winter destination wedding. Making s’mores over a cozy fire will assure the perfect relaxing reception activity.
The unmissable magician
Add a mysterious touch to your special day with a magical performance. A magician will be able to break the ice between the destination wedding dinner differently than jumping right into an energetic DJ. The right magician will be able to mix up their act and props to match the theme of your wedding. He will always be the most surprising for the little ones.
Colouring booth
Another way of making a bright statement is by incorporating the comeback of coloring books into your wedding day. Keep varying levels of difficulty for the kids – and adults – could be putting their artistic skills to the test. Also, offer pre-made destination wedding coloring books or make a custom coloring book inspired by photos taken throughout your relationship.
Opt for a balloon dart board with a DIY paint balloon dart board. The game is cost-effective, as it is very simple to organize and extremely fun to play, this activity will create a beautiful, whimsical splatter or with a daring modern art that you can treasure forever.Tack vibrant balloons filled with assorted paints – perhaps matching the color scheme of your destination wedding theme– to your board.
¡ Una Pinata !
Consider the wedding cake as your piñata and instead of cutting it traditionally why not smash it? Who would want cake splattered all over them when you can take any wedding stress out on a piñata? Obviously, it won’t be filled with rich cake or creamy frosting, this work of art will look almost good enough to eat. Pick a design that fits your theme and fill it with candy and other small items, like confetti poppers to please the littles ones or tiny bottles of alcohol for the adults.
The famous dance battles
Ask your bridesmaids to start off with a friendly amusing rivalry between the bride and groom’s families with a themed dance-off. If there is a dance floor, you’ll just need a little coordination and planning in advance as each side comes together to fight by showing their dance moves off. This activity will give everyone a good laugh as we are sure for it to be an event that all will enjoy.