Your wedding day is “all about you”. However, as the host and hostess of this celebration, your thoughtful consideration of your guests is important for a successful reception. Following are five of the most common complaints I’ve heard from wedding guests.
1 – Calendar Conundrum – Thinking of a special calendar date for your Atlanta wedding, like Christmas, or New Year’s Day? Maybe the same date as when your alma mater’s top rival is coming to town for a game? You may find your guest are “unable to attend”, or you may find most of your guests watching the game, instead of partying with you. If you absolutely MUST get married on a special day, get those invitations out early. The earlier you get them out, the better chance you have of getting guests to attend. By the way, if your wedding does fall on the day of the big game, consider putting a big TV near the ballroom, so at least those who are into the game are not too far from the festivities.
2 – Seating Arrangements – Be sure your venue can accommodate the number of guests who may show up. If you have them packed in like sardines, they are not going to have a good time. Frankly, many of them will leave early. If possible, seat people who know each other together, so they have easy conversation. For example, put your sorority sisters together, family together, etc.
3 – Cash Bar – If you are going to have a bar at the reception, don’t expect your guests to pay for their drinks. This is considered a faux pas, and in poor taste. Many of your guests may not carry cash. If your budget is tight, consider having a limited selection of drinks, rather than an open bar where your guests have to pay.
4 – Dinner – Rubber chicken is great… at least the Swedish Chef, in Muppet movies, seems to think so. However, in real life, your guests won’t like it. Make sure your caterer has good reviews, and do your best to get every guest to RSVP, so you do not run out of food early.
5 – Common Courtesy – Your wedding planner, venue manager, or DJ should help make sure you get to eat early. After you eat, while your guests are still eating, take the time to go visit your guests. Even just a moment at each table to say “Hello, thank you for coming, it’s great to see you…” will make your guests feel appreciated. Write out that thank-you card. Little things like this are greatly appreciated.
6 – Music – Here is a bonus tip. As a wedding DJ at Sirius Diversions, this is something I think about, a lot! Yes, your wedding day sound track should reflect your musical tastes. However, if your tastes are death metal, grunge, or dubstep, please consider allowing your wedding DJ to play more “mainstream” music. Most grandparents and people over the age of 30 are not into these genres.
Speaking of grandparents, please don’t seat them in front of the speakers. No matter how low the volume, it’s going to be “too loud”, but the rest of the room will not be able to hear.
Many of your guests will spend considerable time, effort, and money to come celebrate with you. These tips will go a long way to making sure your guests feel appreciated and welcome.