No matter how you slice it, your wedding reception is a pretty momentous occasion. Not only is it the celebration of your love and commitment to each other, but it’s also usually one of the biggest parties you’ll ever throw.
For some truly unforgettable destination wedding reception ideas, look no further. we’ve got you covered.
Destination Wedding Reception Ideas
When it comes to destination weddings, the reception is just as important as the ceremony. After all, this is where your guests will be spending the majority of their time. Make your reception unforgettable by incorporating these unique and fun ideas into the planning process.
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1. Bring the Local Flavor to Your Reception Menu
One of the best things about having a destination wedding is getting to introduce your guests to the local cuisine. Whether it’s fresh seafood caught that morning, spices and flavors unique to the region, or fruits and vegetables that aren’t typically found in your home country, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating a one-of-a-kind menu for your reception.
Work with a local caterer or chef to come up with a mouthwatering menu that will have your guests raving long after the last dish has been cleared.
2. Incorporate Traditional Dancing
Another fun way to add some local flavor to your reception is by incorporating traditional dancing into the evening’s entertainment. If you’re getting married in Hawaii, for example, you could hire a troupe of hula dancers to perform during dinner.
Or, if you’re tying the knot in Rio de Janeiro, you might want to consider having capoeira dancers put on a show-stopping performance later in the night. Whatever location you’ve chosen for your destination wedding, there’s sure to be some form of traditional dance that can be incorporated into your reception festivities.
3. Set up Games and Activities
Set up some games and activities that they can enjoy between dance sets and trips to the buffet table. Lawn games like croquet and badminton are always popular choices, as are casino tables like poker and roulette.
If you want something unique to the area where you’re getting married, see if there are any local games or activities that everyone can take part in— just make sure they won’t require too much effort after a few glasses of champagne.
4. Create a Breathtaking Backdrop
One of the best things about having a destination wedding is being able to exchange vows surrounded by natural beauty— whether it’s towering mountains, pristine beaches, or lush greenery as far as the eye can see. But why stop there?
Carry those gorgeous surroundings into your reception by making them part of the decor. String fairy lights through the trees, set up tiki torches along the beachfront, or hang lanterns above the dance floor—whatever will help give your guests that feeling of being transported to another world for an evening of revelry and romance.
5. Give Your Guests Something to Take Home
Make sure your guests have something special to take home from your destination wedding reception by giving them favors that reflect both your personality and the location where you tied the knot.
For example, if you got married on Martha’s Vineyard, seashell-themed trinket boxes filled with nautical-themed chocolates would be appropriate. Or, if you’re looking for something more personal, consider giving each guest a small bottle of sand from the beach where you got married as a reminder of all the wonderful memories they made during your special day.
No matter what type of destination wedding reception you ultimately decide on, remember that it should be a reflection of both your and your spouse-to-be’s personalities as well as the location where you’re tieing the knot.
With careful planning and attention to detail, you’re sure to throw an unforgettable party that your guests will talk about for years to come!
Seven Tips for a Memorable and Affordable Destination Wedding Reception
Here are seven tips to help you plan a memorable and affordable destination wedding reception:
1. Do Your Research
The first step is to do your research and choose a location that suits your needs, budget, and style. Once you’ve decided on a location, start looking into hotels, resorts, or private villas that can accommodate all your guests. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices before making any decisions.
2. Set a Budget
Before you start planning anything, it’s important to set a budget for the entire event. This will help narrow down your options and make things easier when it comes time to make decisions about food, drink, entertainment, etc.
3. Choose the Right Date
Be sure to choose a date that works well for you and all your guests. If any of your guests will be traveling from out of town, try to pick a date that falls on a long weekend or during a school break so they don’t have to take too much time off work or school.
4. Find Local Vendors
When planning a destination wedding, it’s important to use local vendors as much as possible. Not only will this save you money, but it will also support the local economy. Plus, local vendors will be familiar with the area and will be able to help with any last-minute changes or problems that might arise.
5. Save on Food and Drink
One of the biggest expenses of any wedding reception is food and drink. To save money, consider having a buffet-style meal instead of a sit-down dinner or hosting an open bar instead of offering unlimited drinks throughout the night.
You can also ask your venue if they allow you to bring in outside food and drink (just be sure to check if there are any corkage fees first).
6. Keep It Simple
When it comes to decorating for your destination wedding reception, less is definitely more. Since you’re already paying for a beautiful location, there’s no need to go overboard with expensive decorations. A few simple elements such as flowers, candles, or string lights should be enough to transform any space into a romantic setting for your big day.
7. Have Fun!
Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun! This is supposed to be one of the happiest days of your life so take some time to soak it all in and enjoy every moment with family and friends.