3 creative ways to get guests involved and participating at your wedding

Julianna Aymin 
Owner and COO of CSE Inc.

Engaging with your guests and making an event entertaining are key components of a successful social function, especially a memorable wedding reception! But, let's face it, it's hard to get people to engage! Technology and cell phones are the go to entertainment options of our generation. So how do you get people engaging and off social media?

1. Fun: Giving your guests an event to remember is all about engagement. This means finding ways for your family and friends to feel like active participants in the proceedings. Photo booths, lawn games, adding elements of surprise (special guest performances) and most importantly hiring awesome vendors like an upbeat Dj, friendly and attentive service staff, a coordinator who cares about the guests experience and comfort, and of course creative and interactive food options are all good places to start.

 

2. Food: Good parties often revolve around the food, which is why so many end up in the kitchen. Keep your guests involved and the traffic moving with a variety of delicious stationed bites. From the opening cocktail hour to the last dance, your guests will love strolling from one specialty set-up to the next. Cheese & Charcuterie Stations, Dessert/Donut Bars, Special Drink Tastings or Pairing, all contributing to the overall guest experience.

3. Favors: Let your guests know how much you appreciate having them there by offering a take-home treat or item. Think thoughtful keepsakes: like a bag of your favorite coffee beans or jars of local honey, a cute succulent plant or a pair of sunglasses with your initials and wedding date. Branded glassware is another way to let guest take home part of the party!  These are memorable and creative ways to not only let your guests know you appreciate their presence at your wedding, but also to keep them moving and involved in your special day.