Activities wedding: 20 Engagement Party Games and Activities Guests Love

20 Engagement Party Games and Activities Guests Love

• Showers & Parties
• Engagement Party

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Wondering what to do at an engagement party? There’s plenty of fun to be had!

By

Kristi Kellogg

Kristi Kellogg

Kristi Kellogg founded Dazzling Digital Marketing Agency in 2017. She also works closely with the digital marketing and SEO teams at Condé Nast.

Brides’s Editorial Guidelines

Updated on 09/28/22

Photo by Sydney Noelle

Now that you’ve picked an engagement party theme, it’s time to plan what to do at the engagement party. You’ll have your family and best friends in one place, meaning there’s potential for a whole lot of fun. And sure, it will likely be awesome to just have everyone together, but planning a few games and activities will be an extra touch to get guests mingling.

Chances are you’ll be seeing these people quite a bit over the course of your wedding journey, so what better way to get to know each other than with some quirky icebreakers? Read on for 20 creative engagement party games and activities that will keep guests entertained.

01
of 20

Ring Hunt

Photo by Chi-Chi Ari of Chi-Chi Ari Love

Hide plastic rings all throughout the party and then set your guests off on a ring hunt. Whoever finds the most rings, wins! Simply put, it’s just like an Easter egg hunt but with engagement rings. Make sure to have prizes handy, like a Starbucks gift card or miniature bottle of Champagne.

02
of 20

Set Up a Photo Station

Photo by KT Merry

For your guests who love all things photos and fun, you need to have a photo station. You can opt for a silly theme and gather pose-worthy props like hats, sunglasses, flower leis, clip-on bow ties, etc., which guests can choose from before posing in front of a bright background. Or, you can create a floral backdrop and provide things like wooden hearts and signs with messages about love.

03
of 20

Create a Custom Snapchat Geofilter

Photo by To The Moon

You know how sometimes you go to an event, like a sports game or a concert, and there’s a special filter on Snapchat that coincides? That’s called a geofilter, and anyone can get one. Pricing is determined by the size of the usage area, so, for a small venue or someone’s house, it’s actually really affordable (only $5 an hour for a geofilter that’s 20 square feet).

04
of 20

The Nearlywed Game

PHOTO BY BOKEH PHOTOGRAPHY

Find out how well the couples in attendance know each other by having them play a live version of the Newlywed Game (in the case of the affianced couple, the Nearlywed Game). Give each of them a mini dry-erase board and have them answer questions like, “What would your partner request for their last meal?” and “What’s one thing your partner thinks you should take a class in?” Then, read off each question, have each partner answer, and see how close the real answer is to their significant other’s guess. Whichever couple racks up the most right answers, wins.

05
of 20

Beanbag Toss

RichLegg / Getty Images

Beanbag toss, also known as cornhole, is a perfect game for an outdoor engagement party. You can go all out with bridal-themed boards, or you can keep it classic. One fun idea is to make the couple kiss whenever someone scores.

06
of 20

Ring Toss

Getty Images

Ring tosses are so apropos for an outdoor engagement party. Decorate the plastic rings and/or bottles with glitter for a truly sparkly game—half of the rings should be a different color than the others. Create two teams and take turns throwing rings at stakes or empty bottles for a DIY version.

07
of 20

Bridal Jeopardy!

Photo by Branch & Cole

Craft a DIY Jeopardy! board with questions all about the couple and their romance. Just like the game show, the board will reveal answers, and the guests will have to “buzz” in to guess the question that corresponds to the answer (you can just have people raise their hands or ring a bell if you don’t have a buzzer on hand). Possible categories could include the bride or groom, the couple, and the wedding plans. If someone chooses, for example, “the engagement” for 300, it could reveal an answer like “13 months,” leading someone to buzz in and shout “How many months were the couple together before getting engaged?”

08
of 20

Memory Lane

PHOTO BY MARK SPOONER

Have each guest write down a memory of the couple (or each individually, depending on who each guest knows) on an index card, then mix all the index cards in a bowl. Have the couple read off the index cards one by one. For each card, all the guests have to guess who the memory belongs to. Whoever gets the most cards right wins the game; this is especially fun if most people at the engagement party are already friends or acquaintances, and will be able to guess who’s who.

09
of 20

Engagement-Themed Charades

Photo by Aaron Delesie; Event Planning by EKS Events

If your friends are big on charades, why not play a few rounds? Here’s the catch: Whatever movie or book is being performed has to be related to an engagement. Think My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Bridesmaids, etc.

10
of 20

Take Wedding-Song Requests

Photo by Bokeh Photography; Event Planning by First Look Events  

Get a jump-start on planning your wedding reception playlist. Hand out a sheet of paper and have your guests fill out their top requests for songs they want to hear on the upcoming day when you say “I do!”

11
of 20

The Shoe Game

Photo by Alexa Lena Photography 

An engagement party and wedding reception favorite, the wedding shoe game tests the couple’s knowledge of one another and/or their relationship. To play, the couple sits back-to-back, both of them holding one of their own shoes in one hand and one of their partner’s shoes in their other hand. Then, a designated host will ask questions like, “Who made the first move?” and “Who dresses better?” The to-be-weds will raise either their own shoe or their partner’s shoe to answer the question, with neither one of them seeing the other’s answer.

12
of 20

Giant Tic-Tac-Toe

Photo by Eddie Pearson Photography 

With a fresh engagement, X and O are at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Bring the XOXOs to life with a giant, outdoor game of tic-tac-toe. Bonus tip: A game like this is also sure to be a big hit at an outdoor wedding.

13
of 20

Jenga

Photo by Mark Spooner

Who doesn’t love this classic? Make it memorable by having the guests sign a tile with their name and a note for the newly affianced couple. That way, whenever the couple plays Jenga, they’ll always think of their friends and the super-fun engagement party moments. Make the game even better (and suitable for a backyard affair) with giant Jenga!

14
of 20

Tie the Knot

Sue-Ann Thalacker / EyeEm / Getty Images

Make a contest out of tying cherry stems into knots. Set out a bowl of cherries and see who can tie the most cherry stem knots with their tongue in two minutes. For a little extra fun, soak the cherries in vanilla vodka overnight.

15
of 20

Find the Guest

Photo by Kindred Weddings

Compile a list of fun and interesting facts about each guest at the engagement party. Pass out a copy of the list of facts to every guest, and have them go around and find out who is who. This is a great way for your guests to get acquainted and learn more about each other.

To make it more interesting, implement the rule that you can’t flat-out ask about the fact directly. Guests will have to make casual conversation to figure out who is who; for example, if a fact is “This guest is an opera singer,” you might bring up music and see where the conversation leads.

16
of 20

Message in a Bottle

Sonja Rachbauer / Getty Images

This isn’t a game, but it’s definitely something the couple’s friends and family will love doing. Set out a beautiful glass bottle and create a station with pens and slips of paper where guests can write a note to the couple to be opened after the wedding or on their anniversary. This is the kind of thing that would also make for an excellent activity on the big day itself. It’s a chance for people to express how happy they are for the couple and how much they love them. Plus, the bottle will double as a gorgeous piece of décor.

17
of 20

Mad Libs

Photo by Mark Spooner; Stationery by Molly Goldberg Design

Turn the couple’s story into a game of Mad Libs. To make it extra funny, feel free to elaborate and exaggerate details. Then, of course, leave blanks where guests can add in ridiculous adverbs, verbs, adjectives, and nouns.

18
of 20

Craft a Couple’s Quilt

ADAM HESTER / GETTY IMAGES

Hand out patches of fabric to each guest at the shower along with fabric paint, beads, and string. Have each party guest create their own patch in honor of the happy couple. After the party, collect all of the patches and have them sewn together into a quilt to commemorate the engagement (you can present this to the couple at the wedding).

19
of 20

Bridal Bingo

Tetra Images / Getty Images

For a twist on traditional bingo, create your own bingo cards where all the squares are engagement- and wedding-themed, such as Mr., Mrs., Love, etc. You can even find pre-made ones and just print them out for the activity.

20
of 20

Casino Games

Wundervisuals / Getty Images 

Turn the engagement party into a fête fit for Las Vegas! One of our favorite engagement party themes is casino night. Pull out all the stops and rent casino-style tables, so you can play games like blackjack, craps, and roulette.

Now that you have an idea of how to entertain guests at an engagement party, you’re probably going to want some tips on how to make your event ultra Instagram-worthy. Find engagement party decoration ideas that are sure to impress.

75 Unique Wedding Ideas to Wow Your Guests

Here at Brides, we’ve seen our fair share of weddings—and with that, just about every wedding trend in the book. From Pinterest-worthy doughnut walls to overused mason jars, it’s the unique (less-done) ideas for weddings that leave a lasting impression. But how do you decide which personalized details to include, and how do you even come up with them in the first place? “The best way to make a wedding stand out is to make it your own. Look to your own story versus at the wedding of others,” says Allison Jackson, the owner and lead event planner at Pineapple Productions.

Meet the Expert

Allison Jackson is the owner and lead event planner at Pineapple Productions, a wedding planning firm based in Washington, DC.

As a starting point, take some time to think about what represents you as a couple. “My approach to wedding design has always involved drawing inspiration from the couple’s story to create something completely original, personal, and distinctive,” Jackson says. “I like to ask couples about how they met, how they became engaged, and how they spent their time to begin forming ideas for unique wedding details. ”

Shared interests, travels, and family histories also serve as wonderful sources of inspiration,” she adds. Secondly, don’t forget to consider your guests! As much as your wedding is about celebrating your legal union with your partner, it’s also very much about your guests’ comfort and enjoyment. A few areas to look to for inspiration as you plan your nuptials:

• Your engagement
• Where you met
• Your first trip together
• Your mutual hobbies
• Your home state
• Your heritage
• Your guests

Looking for some inspiration? Here are 75 distinctive ideas—from catering selections to personalized décor to bouquet ideas—that can help make your big day stand out.

01
of 75

Hold a Minimal Bouquet

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Minimalist bouquets make a chic and classy statement in a way that the average bountiful bouquet can’t—it’s the perfect way for a bride to channel her modern style. Allow a nosegay or Biedermeier bouquet to be the focal point of your wedding day look as you make your way down the aisle.

02
of 75

Take Song Requests

Photo by Sarah Libby Photography 

Ask invitees to jot down their favorite song on the RSVP card—or have them email it to you instead. Compile all the song requests into a playlist and give it to your DJ for a variety of jams that guests will enjoy.

03
of 75

A Flower Girl: Something Blue

Photo by Kurt Boomer Photography

In need of something blue? Forget the traditional blue garter or jewelry ideas—a flower girl in blue is so much cuter, especially when accompanied by a flower crown. Alternatively, have the flower girl toss blue-dyed flower petals for a fun twist on this classic tradition.

04
of 75

Create a Custom Monogram

Photo by Jose Villa

Add a custom stamp of your and your partner’s first initials throughout the wedding for a personal touch. Brand it on everything from wedding signs to table numbers and favors for consistency.

05
of 75

Have Fun With Cake Toppers

Photo by Monique Serra Photography

Traditional bride and groom cake toppers are so 1980s. Top off your cake with an accent that complements the vibe and theme of your wedding. While this rustic-chic light bulb topper is the perfect touch for an industrial-style wedding, a flamingo topper could be a nod to beach nuptials.

06
of 75

Play Up Your Tablescape

Photo by Carmen Santorelli Photography 

Instead of using actual plates for plate chargers, opt for something more befitting your tablescape; think palm leaves for a tropical setting or antique tiles like the one shown above for a romantic Italian villa-inspired look.

07
of 75

Make Fruit the Favor

Photo by Fondly Forever Photography

For favors that guests will actually use, set up a “farm stand” of fresh fruit and small baskets (or mini crates) that they can fill on their way out the door. Another fun idea is to adorn apples or pears with personalized stickers that contain your names or a pun along the lines of “we make a pear-fect couple.”

08
of 75

Go Neon

Photo by Rachel Havel

There’s no denying the charm of a wooden sign or the elegance of a mirrored sign, but everyone uses them. Opt for something creative that reflects your theme, like a fun neon sign with a sweet love-centric slogan. For the reception, consider incorporating a neon sign with your wedding hashtag as a photo booth backdrop.

09
of 75

Serve Local Delights

Photo by Jen Huang Bogan

If your wedding will take place far from where you grew up, offer tasting stations with cuisine from that locale. A few ideas: clam chowder and lobster rolls for New England; chili and tacos for Texas; or oysters for New Orleans.

10
of 75

Set Up an Eclectic Menu

Photo by Bella Wang Photography 

Take into consideration your perfect food day (breakfast through dinner plus snacks and dessert). Allow your caterer to combine your and your partner’s tastes to create the ideal wedding meal for a diverse menu. 

If you plan on serving food from different cultures, then an elegant buffet could be a unique way to satisfy a variety of palates.

11
of 75

Hand Out Wedding Day Cookies

Photo by Kate Headley, planning and designing by Pineapple Productions

Why not match your cookies to your décor? The wedding cookies shown above were “printed” with a toile pattern that was beloved by the bride. Another idea is to stack the dessert table with cookies frosted with your monogram or shaped like the numerals of your wedding date (“6,” “20,” “17”) for a personal touch.

12
of 75

Remember the Locations

Photo by Tiffani Jones 

Pay homage to the state where you fell in love by incorporating it into your décor or food. We love how these tropical-inspired, Florida-shaped cookies lend a touch of whimsy. If your state has a slogan (for instance, “Virginia Is For Lovers”), then that could also serve as a source of inspiration. For example, a couple that met in Virginia could weave LOVE signs throughout their reception décor.

13
of 75

Don’t Forget a Map

Photo by Jordan Voth 

If you’re having a destination wedding or have a lot of guests coming from out of town, including a map of the area your wedding will be in with your invitations—after all, they’ll be spending the whole weekend there!

14
of 75

Customize Your Wine

Photo by Jennifer See Studios

Order custom labels for wine and water to put your own personal stamp on libations. If you really want to get fancy, you could order mini-etched champagne bottles as favors.

15
of 75

Have Fun With Seating

Photo by Lara Hotz Photography

Instead of benches or chairs, select distinctive seating that reflects your wedding style for your ceremony, like floor cushions or these laidback tree stumps painted with tribal print. While it’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetic, make sure that the seating you choose is comfortable. Bales of hay, poufs, and ottomans are all worth looking into if there’s a specific vibe you’re looking to recreate.

16
of 75

Bring the Boutonnière Into the Theme

Photo by Caleb John Hill

Tie your groom’s boutonnière into your theme—a seashell brings nautical décor full circle, while a crisp maple leaf celebrates autumn and cacti evoke desert vibes.

17
of 75

Turn a Coffee Table Book into the Guest Book

Photo by Jenna Bechtholt Photography

Traditional guest books often end up stashed in a closet. Instead, choose a coffee table book covering a subject you love (like this one about historical Los Angeles) and that you’ll want to display at home; guests can write on the photos or in the margins.

18
of 75

Play Up the Cocktail Napkins

Photo by Suzuran Photography

Give your cocktail napkins some personality by having them printed with fun facts about you and your partner. You could also include trivia questions about the newlyweds as an icebreaker for guests.

19
of 75

Give Cocktail Hour a Whimsical Touch

Photo by Julie Paisley 

Instead of having waiters carry trays of champagne around, have them refill suspended platforms with the bubbly instead. If just a touch of whimsy is what you’re after—and it fits the theme of your wedding—then we recommend adding cocktail umbrella picks or festive paper straws to guests’ drinks.

20
of 75

Cool Down With Frozen Treats

Photo by Cattura Weddings 

Is the weather forecast for your wedding day blistering? Rent a Sno-Cone machine, popsicle bar, or ice cream stand and chill out!

21
of 75

Whip Up Family Desserts

Photo by Hazelwood Photo

Give the backstory to any family recipes you’re serving. Keep the explanations short and significant, and include them on the printed menu. For example, “Aunt Martine’s French onion soup” or “Grandma Betty’s peach pie.”

22
of 75

Personalize Reception Table Names

Photo by Jose Villa

Give each reception table a name (for example, “China”) that relates to your courtship. Have a tent card on the table with a short explanation: “We met sophomore year of college here during a study abroad program!”

23
of 75

Go Big With Your Bouquet

Photo by Lauren Peele

Add unexpected elements to your bouquet to give it your own touch. We love how feathers complement a large king protea in this arrangement.

24
of 75

Tap Into Wedding Dance Traditions

Photo by Pat Furey

Have a cultural dance that’s a favorite at family weddings? From the tarantella (Italian) to the money dance (Cuba), ethnic jigs give a party a distinctive flavor.

25
of 75

Celebrate Your Heritage With Your Wedding Cake

Photo by Lauren Love Photography

Think papaya filling (the Philippines), cannoli cream icing (Italy), and pomegranate glaze (Middle East). No problem if the groom is from a different country—you can always showcase multiple tiers!

26
of 75

Plan Some Photo Booth Fun

Photo by Brianna Venzke 

Set up a mini photo studio at the reception for guests to ham it up in front of the camera. Send their photos with your thank-you cards for a fun surprise. GIF photo booths are all the rage these days—just don’t forget to share your wedding hashtag to encourage attendees to spread the #love.

27
of 75

Create a Unique Menu Display

Photo by Cluney Photo

Instead of displaying the menu on standard stationery, get creative and have it sprawled across plates, marble, or charcuterie boards in elegant calligraphy.

28
of 75

Skip the Party Favors

Photo by Zofia & Co.

Is there a charity that’s dear to you? In lieu of favors, make a donation in your guests’ names; leave an explanatory card on each dinner table.

29
of 75

Play Games at the Cocktail Hour

Photo by Saya Photography; Wedding Planner: Call Me Madame

Hosting the cocktail hour outside? Set up stations of different lawn games—like croquet, badminton, and jumbo Jenga—around the cocktail and lounge area to give your guests some entertainment besides mingling.

30
of 75

Hold a Ring Warming Ceremony

Photo by Lisa O’Dwyer

Have a ring warming ceremony, where both wedding bands are passed through guests to send their good wishes and love before they’re placed on each finger.

31
of 75

Hire a Live Wedding Painter

Photo by Kimberley Mitiska Photography

Hire an artist to live paint your ceremony or reception. They’ll create a work of art out of the happiest day of your life that you can hang on the walls of your future home and treasure for years.

32
of 75

Showcase Your Birthstone

Photo by We Three Workshops

Incorporate your birthstone into your tablescape for a special touch. We’re loving the boho glam of these amethyst napkin rings. Beyond the décor, you could also take it a step further by centering your wedding theme around your birthstone—everything from invitations to the frosting on your wedding cake.

33
of 75

Show Off Bouquet Alternatives

Photo by dearheart Photos

Give your bridesmaids something a little more untraditional to carry in lieu of bouquets. These greenery wreaths with statement flowers are absolutely gorgeous and eye-catching. We’re also into balloons and lanterns as bouquet alternatives.

34
of 75

Get Creative With the Guest Book

Photo by Hazelwood Photo 

Another guest book idea: Leave a glass bowl with cards (or postcards, if you’re a wanderlust couple) and pens beside it, with a note asking guests to contribute a favorite memory of you or your partner, a bucket list idea, or a piece of marriage advice.

35
of 75

Be Adventurous With the Wedding Day Menu

Photo by Westlund Photography 

Whether you’re crazy about old-fashioned egg creams, Belgian waffles, or Philly cheese steak, ask your caterer about incorporating your faves into the menu. Jackson also suggests replicating the menu from the couple’s first date—a “simple salad with French onion soup, followed by steak frites” is guaranteed to bring forth a hit of nostalgia (for the newlyweds, anyway).

36
of 75

Find Ways to Honor Your Family’s Heritage

Photo by James Moes 

Display your family’s heritage graphically—an Indian print, a clan tartan, an African kente cloth—on everything from vases to ring pillows to stationery and even cummerbunds.

37
of 75

Set Up A Tasting Bar

Photo by Mary Costa Weddings

If you and your partner have a favorite libation—beer lovers or tequila aficionados—set up a tasting bar with different varieties. “The cocktail hour is the right time to include any activities that involve mixing, mingling, and active discussion. Food and beverage tastings, for example, work well during cocktails,” Jackson says. “I have organized things like oyster tastings, whiskey tastings, and wine tastings to encourage interaction as well as fill time if needed for a ‘room flip.'”

38
of 75

Hand Out Welcome Guides

Photo by Greer Gattuso 

Stock welcome baskets with a quiz that leads out-of-town guests on a scavenger hunt to your favorite haunts (the best little bakery, a scenic park). Another idea is to provide “a wedding welcome bag that includes everything you might need for the perfect cocktail hour or a perfect day at the beach,” Jackson says.

39
of 75

Add Sentiment to Your Ceremony Backdrop

Photo by Cluney Photo

The sweetest ceremony backdrop? An oversized piece of parchment or linen boasting your favorite quote, book passage, or bible verse.

40
of 75

Give Your Fur Baby the Spotlight

Photo by Jasmine Lee Photography; Planning/Stylist: Charmed Events Group; Florist: Nicole Ha 

Love your little fur baby? Let him or her inspire your wedding décor. One couple dedicated their cocktail hour to Charlie the pug, creating an escort card with his silhouette on it and the phrase, “Life with you is like a walk in the park.”

41
of 75

Make a Memorable Wedding Exit

Photo by Britt Rene Photography

Forget wedding cars! Pick an exit that best suits your style as a couple or wedding theme—a motorcycle for the edgy duo or jetting off into the blue for the chic and glam pair.

42
of 75

Plan for Guests’ Comfort

Photo by Simply Sarah Photography

Having an outdoor wedding? Think about the weather and your guests’ needs. If it’s cold, offer blankets for them to snuggle in. Likewise, provide parasols for shade if it’s sunny or umbrellas if rain is in the forecast.

43
of 75

Skip the Traditional First Dance

Photo by Karina & Maks 

Skip the first dance in favor of an activity that is more meaningful to you and your partner. This couple chose to do their first Twister game as husband and wife instead. A round of mini golf could also be an entertaining and fun way to kick off this new chapter in life.

44
of 75

Make VIP-Worthy Welcome Baskets

Photo by Lissa Ryan Photography

If you’re having a destination wedding, fill welcome baskets with locally-made crafts, food, and drinks that reflect the locale. “Consider guest hospitality in every possible way. Nothing makes more of an impact than demonstrating to your guests how much you care about them,” Jackson says.

Be sure to include a handwritten note, a gift card to your favorite coffee shop or bakery, and something locally made—be it a bag of old-fashioned hand-cooked peanuts or chocolate-coated espresso beans.

45
of 75

Make Room for a Mobile Bar

Photo by Greg Finck

A mobile bar will delight guests during cocktail hour because they won’t have to wait in line. Give the bubbly some wheels for a whimsical feel. For guests who don’t drink, consider having a sparkling lemonade stand or even a sorbet cart.

46
of 75

Get Personal

Photo by Josh Elliott Photography 

Help wedding guests get to know you and your partner better by creating a cute infographic of your relationship to display as a sign on welcome tables. Jackson also suggests incorporating a custom illustration into your save-the-date card that unfolds to tell the story of how you and your partner met, where you went on your first date, and where you became engaged.

47
of 75

Give Your Vows Center Stage

Photo by Kimberley Mitiska Photography

For personal table runners, forget the linens and use a long piece of parchment with your vows written on it in calligraphy—très romantique.

48
of 75

Personalize the Bridesmaids’ Bouquets

Photo by Beatrici Photography 

Personalize the bridesmaids’ bouquets by selecting flowers that pair with each girl’s birth month. Stick to a single color (pink peonies, pink tulips, pink roses) or color scheme (jewel tones) to unify the look.

49
of 75

Send Guests Home With a Snack

Photo by Elyse Hall 

Your guests will have worked up an appetite on the dance floor by the time they leave for the night. Send them home with a midnight snack (anything from shoestring fries to popcorn) to eat in their hotel for a favor that will actually get used.

50
of 75

Leave Guests a Yummy Snack

Photo by Kate Headley, Planning and Designing by Pineapple Productions 

What guest doesn’t appreciate a sweet treat? Jackson suggests surprising guests with a turndown service when they arrive back at their hotel following the rehearsal dinner. “The turndown service included a special note from the bride and groom and their favorite local doughnuts to be enjoyed as a late-night snack or morning treat,” Jackson says. Other confections to consider include a trio of macarons, a cupcake, a warm cookie, or gourmet chocolates.

51
of 75

Bring Escort Cards to the Next Level

Photo by Shelly Anderson Photography

Are you a wanderlust pair with a travel theme? Go the extra mile and use leather luggage tags to hold the escort or place cards. For a summer wedding, consider using beach balls or seashells as escort cards.

52
of 75

Be Bold With Color

Photo by Nikole Ramsay

Want to create an unusual color scheme? Take cues from the works of color-happy artists such as Rothko, Van Gogh, or Pollock. “Don’t be afraid to play with color, pattern, and shape,” Jackson says. “I love bold colors, like a palette of jewel tones mixed with softer pastels. Also, a pop of unexpected color—like chartreuse—can make an otherwise neutral palette really stand out.”

53
of 75

Find Inspo From a Family Photo

Photo by Branco Prata Studios 

Show your florist photos of your mother’s bouquet so a florist can design a similar one, like this white, 1980s-inspired cascading bouquet. Chat it over with your photographer first, but another cool idea is to recreate a special wedding moment (like the cake cutting or the wedding exit) from your parents’ nuptials.

54
of 75

Use a Large Sign for Heartfelt Messages

Photo BAKE Photography

Favors are great and all, but there’s nothing like a heartfelt message to thank guests, especially when it’s displayed so beautifully. Show your gratitude by having it expressed in elegant calligraphy on a large sign for all to see.

55
of 75

Enlist Your Best Man as an Emcee

Photo by Lillywhite Photography 

Have your best man emcee a trivia quiz about the two of you and ask each table to work as a team to come up with the answers. A round of “I Spy” or Bingo could also be played.

56
of 75

Design a Different Seating Arrangement

Photo by Jose Villa

Design your ceremony seating in a circular fashion so guests can get a 360-degree view. If you plan on getting drone shots of your wedding, then just think how cool a winding spiral will appear from above.

Take into consideration the type of wedding altar you choose. You’ll want your seating to complement the altar, not compete with it.

57
of 75

Get Silly With Your Seating Chart

Photo by Ryan Ray Photo 

Make guests find their seats by first locating a funny picture of them on an escort card wall. This couple scoured the Internet for months to find the most amusing photos of their guests for this DIY masterpiece. Alternatively, Jackson recommends using “escort cards that were old black-and-white photos of the bride and groom throughout the years for lots of laughs and conversation starters at the dinner tables.”

58
of 75

Send an Unexpected Love Letter

Photo by Tim Tab Studios 

Write your soon-to-be spouse a heartfelt message on their wedding shoe for a sweet surprise on the big day. If you’re feeling sneaky, slip a secret message to your ring bearer or flower girl to pass along prior to (or during) the ceremony.

59
of 75

Serve a Family-Style Meal

Photo by Bless Photography

Instead of the traditional three-course dinner, have your guests sit down to a family-style serving for a more intimate gathering. Use this as an opportunity to mix up couples and encourage conversations among different guests.

60
of 75

Build a Bow Tie Bar

Photo by Ryan Ray Photography

Does your groom have a thing for bowties? Create a bow tie bar during cocktail hour where guests can swap their ties for one. This bride’s mom spent months sewing bowties for every male guest at the wedding.

61
of 75

Give Your Pet a Grand Entrance

Photo by Chelsea Seekell Photography 

Including your pet on your wedding day? We can’t think of anything sweeter. Instead of throwing a tie or bow on them, give them their own flower crown or wreath to match your décor—florals for the girls and greenery for the boys.

62
of 75

Turn Cherished Pieces into Keepsakes

Photo by Jose Villa 

Have the most meaningful phrase from your wedding vows embroidered or needlepointed on the ring pillow. Display it in your home—it’s the ultimate keepsake. Anything that you get customized for your bridesmaids will also serve as a memento of your big day. Jackson recalls a Colorado wedding where custom-embroidered denim jackets were made for the bride and her bridesmaids.

63
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Shake It Like a Polaroid Picture

Photo by Alex Carlyle Photography 

Hang a series of photos of both of you as children at the reception. Guests can schmooze and peruse during the cocktail hour.

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Give the Matchmaker Special Treatment

Photo by Tim Tab Studios

Decorate the chair of the person who set you and your SO up with a garland of greenery and a sign that reads, “matchmaker.” Other key people who played a role in your courtship—age-old friends, acquaintances, or teachers that you both had growing up—could also receive a special seat or even a flower crown to wear throughout the night.

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Sneak in References to Your Engagement

Photo by Christie Graham

Your engagement can play a starring role in the décor. One bride included blueberries at each place setting because her husband proposed to her on Blueberry Point (a notecard at each table explained this).

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Choose Glassware That Matches Your Theme

Photo by Katie Pritchard Photography 

Crystal glasses in shades of blue and wicker baskets complement a southwestern ranch wedding with boho flair. Having a post-wedding brunch the next day? For a garden party theme, mismatched fine china sourced from a flea market will lend a dose of whimsy.

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Pay Tribute to Special Heirlooms

Photo by Kortney J Photo

Wear your grandmother’s wedding dress as a special tribute to one of your favorite people. A few design tweaks will put a modern twist on a vintage look. Alternatively, an heirloom engagement ring or a garter made from your grandmother’s wedding veil can serve as your “something old.”

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Let Your Personality Shine Through

Photo by Mary Costa Weddings

Add goofy photo booth strips to table numbers for a playful touch—not only does it show off your personalities as a couple, but it also serves as a fun conversation piece for guests. “We like to make little nods to the interests our couples share. For a couple who spends time together walking in parks and birdwatching, a subtle bird motif will personalize their wedding invitation and be repeated through the use of specially selected fabrics and china.”

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Inject Some Artsy Flair

Photo by Jose Villa 

Are you both art lovers? Let it inspire your big day. This couple had each of their favorite paintings printed on the menus. For an art gallery wedding, Jackson suggests displaying mini-painted canvases on easels—not only do they make pretty escort cards but they’ll also serve as meaningful mementos.

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Get Creative With Your Centerpiece

Photo by Katie Pritchard Photography 

Create one large floral centerpiece out of several mini vases. Invite guests to take one on their way out. If both of you are literary nerds, then a stack of your favorite books could be used as an informal centerpiece. You could even take it a step further by assigning a different genre to each table.

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Serve Carnival-Style Sweets

Photo by Kate Headley, planning and designing by Pineapple Productions

If you really want to think outside the box, then modern carnival sweets are the way to go. For one wedding, Pineapple Productions served maple bacon funnel cakes and strawberry chili cotton candy from a moving ferris wheel.

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Plan a Home Wedding

Photo by Patricia Lyons, planning and designing by Pineapple Productions

“A wedding at home invites the perfect opportunity to incorporate your own furniture into the décor of the day,” Jackson says. “Things like an antique table to be used for the wedding cake display or a beautiful cabinet for the display of pre-poured cocktails can offer more charm and personality than rental furniture.”

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Celebrate Your Love of Art

Photo by Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu Photography

Consider incorporating custom artwork into your invitations and mementos. “For a couple who enjoys collecting art, an artist was commissioned to create artwork melding the skylines of the bride and groom’s hometowns—hers, Washington, DC, and his, London. We used the artwork on the wedding invitation and on playing cards that were given out as guest favors at the end of the night,” Jackson says.

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Hand Out a Tribute Bouquet to Someone Special

Photo by Brumley & Wells 

Toast the woman who has had the greatest impact on your life, then hand her your bouquet as a tribute. Another thought is to send flowers to the couple that has been married the longest. Ask them to share a few words of wisdom with the crowd as a sweet sentiment.

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Place Envelopes at Each Place Setting

Photo by Headley Lyons; Planning and designing by Pineapple Productions 

“I have had couples write handwritten notes for each guest on menu cards for each place setting. While time-consuming, I cannot think of a better way to let each individual guest know how much you appreciate his or her presence at your wedding,” Jackson says.

wedding trends and outdoor weddings in 2020. Organization of a wedding on Lake Senezh

Stylish, unique and thought out to the smallest detail! These are just some of the epithets that come to mind when we look at 2020 wedding trends. If you are looking for an outdoor wedding venue and are planning a celebration in the coming months, use unique ideas that will make your wedding original and memorable.

Some wedding trends that were very rare and controversial in the recent past are being introduced more and more by brides. This is another proof that individuality, environmental friendliness and careful study of each stage of a wedding in nature is a new trend for the coming years.

Wedding dresses without limits

Whether you are a bride who knows exactly
what does she want to wear on her wedding day, or you have no idea how it will be
look like your dress, this trend will work in your favor. non-traditional
dresses, colored dresses, two-piece sets – all this is actively included in the wedding
fashion and widely distributed in 2020.

Attention to detail

Careful planning is not just a trend, it is a must
aspect for those who want to hold a wedding at the highest level. wedding venue
on the shore of the lake, natural materials, unusual appearance of the newlyweds on
ceremonies, charitable donations instead of flowers and gifts are
just a few examples of how you can create a distinct style and feel for your guests
your wedding ceremony.

Thoughtful menu

What is a thoughtful banquet menu? Something special for everyone. You will have guests who may have allergies, dietary restrictions, and different taste preferences. The Seneschal Hotel team has many years of experience in holding banquet events at the highest level, so we provide the opportunity to create an individual wedding menu, taking into account your wishes and taste preferences of your guests.

Seneschal restaurant chef will offer you an individual wedding menu.

Floral design, landscape and living plants

This is somewhat contrary to the previous point, but still
deserves special mention. Use for wedding decoration
areas of natural growing greenery, fruit trees, available
landscape design, as well as potted living plants as the main
elements of wedding decor not only significantly saves money, but also highlights
your wedding celebration among the mass of the same type of urban weddings!

Creating a cozy atmosphere for all wedding participants

Continuing the theme of individuality and detail, we want
pay attention to the general atmosphere of the wedding event and those feelings
that your guests experience. All moments are important here, from meeting visitors
guests and their accommodation, ending with a list of musical compositions and menus for the evening
banquet. It is necessary to prepare in advance for possible weather changes,
find out the taste preferences of your guests, as well as provide sufficient
variety of food and entertainment.

Services of the Seneschal Hotel for your guests at a wedding in the Moscow region

Chamber weddings on the lake

popular as the bride and groom begin to pay more attention
impressions and memories of your wedding day.

When you reduce the list
guests, the budget for each guest is slightly increased, and the program
celebrating more opportunities. Thus, inviting
wedding of only the closest people, you can create a unique and special holiday
for all guests.

Unique lighting and sound effects

Courage when it comes to wedding decor, stable
gaining momentum. Custom neon lights, acrylic signs, massive
flower installations, as well as salutes and fireworks – these are just some of the wedding
trends that we will see in 2020.

If you plan to use this at your wedding, then you need to discuss the possibility of installing certain structures with the technical specialists of the chosen wedding venue.

Decoration of banquet tables

There are many fresh and interesting ideas in the design of the banquet area
and a table for the newlyweds. No matter what style you choose for your
wedding, confidently adhere to it from the beginning to the end of the wedding celebration. If it’s a summer floral theme, the guest tables should be decorated accordingly. In winter, the decor style is more restrained, this rule also applies to the design of the banquet area.

If you want to find the perfect location for a wedding in the suburbs of Moscow, just click here to see photos of the locations and banquet halls of Seneschal Boutique Hotel! We will do everything to ensure that your wedding on Senezh Lake is held at the highest level!

To find out available dates and ask questions to our wedding managers, please call: +7 (903) 109-48-48.

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Weddings in Moscow: scenarios, places, options, examples

A wedding celebration is one of the most beautiful and desired events in the life of every girl. From time immemorial, the wedding day has been a special day for a young couple, a turning point that was associated with many rituals designed to secure and make the future of the family happy. Today, traditions are fading into the background, but the desire to make the day bright, rich and unforgettable remains. Every couple wants to create a holiday that reflects their personality and at the same time pleases the guests.

In modern conditions, you can afford almost everything: go to a lost island in the Indian Ocean to celebrate under the sound of the ocean surf and the wind entangled in palm leaves, arrange a gangster party in the style of Chicago in the 30s, or remember roots and hold a wedding celebration in accordance with folk traditions.

There are various types of weddings that have already become popular. Someone orders a room in a restaurant and is limited to decorating the surrounding space. Someone, in imitation of a Hollywood movie, organizes an outdoor celebration, with outdoor music and vows of the newlyweds. And someone wants to escape to the End of the World for the sake of this day, where there is only sand, seagulls and a huge disk of the sun, falling at the end of the day into the turquoise waters of the ocean.

Where is the best place to spend this memorable day? Consider the best options.

One of the popular options for a wedding celebration in our country is a feast in a restaurant. A significant advantage of this format of celebration is the ability to invite a large number of guests and at the same time please everyone. Of course, it may seem to many that weddings in a restaurant or cafe always follow the same scenario and differ little from each other. However, any specialist involved in organizing weddings can easily dispel doubts: even in a closed space, if you wish, you can find something to do to make it fun and interesting. This option has a number of undeniable advantages.

• First, it is relatively cheap. The bride and groom can choose in advance whether to order a toastmaster, decorate the hall on their own or pay decorators, what dishes and drinks to order. Naturally, the final price also depends on the choice.
• Secondly, holding a celebration within the walls of a restaurant is a fairly conservative event. It can be visited by older relatives, and teenagers, and small children.
• Thirdly, if a small company of guests gathers, then a sincere feast in a small hall of a restaurant or cafe is probably the most suitable option.

The disadvantages include limited space, excessive pathos and lack of scenarios for the event.

Wedding in the country

Wedding in the country is a great alternative for those who want to gather all their loved ones not only on the wedding day, but for a longer period. At the same time, the celebration outside the city is not limited to renting a house, a club or an old estate. Open space allows the organizer’s imagination to manifest itself to the fullest. At such a wedding, you can afford a chamber orchestra, sleigh rides, dances, fireworks, a pirate party with a ransom of the bride from filibusters and a great many other interesting scenarios.

Truly Russian scope requires a considerable investment, but do not think that a wedding outside the city is very expensive. A team of good professionals who professionally organize weddings will be able to arrange a real holiday in the country style in the forest or in the village, which, by the way, is now very popular in the West. Country space is the best suited for all sorts of themed parties. The disadvantages of this option include the complexity of the organization, in which it is necessary to take into account many nuances.

Weddings abroad

Today, weddings are getting more and more popular. The hottest destinations are visa-free countries: Turkey, Egypt, Cyprus, Cuba, etc. As a rule, people go abroad for the exotic, so that the wedding day becomes memorable not only for the guests, but also for the newlyweds themselves, for whom, as a rule, the wedding day is a real test. Also, foreign countries attract with objects and opportunities, which, unfortunately, are not available on the territory of Russia or they are not enough. Castles, old estates, villas on the seashore are very popular. The most minimalist variant of an overseas wedding is the marriage ceremony, in which only the couple participate. Oaths on the ocean coast, weddings with the national flavor of the East or weddings in famous chapels of the West are popular. To organize such a wedding, you don’t need much: just decorate the venue (often local organizers do this) and find a photographer who will take good photos.

A wedding in another country is, of course, a memorable and bright event. If you approach its organization wisely, you can keep in mind the unique atmosphere of an exclusive event.

However, you need to understand that organizing an outdoor wedding abroad is quite expensive, and at the same time it will most likely not be possible to gather all your beloved relatives and friends: one of the most common obstacles is the preparation of necessary documents, cost, flights and other difficulties associated with departure.

Scenarios for a wedding

The simplest, but at the same time beautiful and elegant option for decorating an event can be a colorful wedding. There is no special scenario here, however, a single color scheme can create a unique atmosphere and coziness of the holiday. Today, Tiffany colors, blackberry, scarlet, emerald are in fashion. Much attention is paid to the details in such a wedding. From Western traditions, for example, decorative accessories such as wooden letters, floral arrangements woven with solid color ribbons, and various interesting additions are borrowed, such as small attractions, a table with individually designed cookies and sweets, and gifts for guests from a young couple.

Another popular option is a stylized wedding. The event is a classic wedding, with a ceremony at the registry office and a restaurant. Much attention is paid to the design of the space, the costumes of the groom, bridesmaids, guests. There are a lot of options: a wedding in Hawaii, when flower beads are put on all those present, and the waiters serve cocktails in coconuts, a pirate party, which is attended by Jack Sparrow or Captain Flint.