What are some good wedding reception ideas/activities for a small dinner reception?

Question

I am having a courthouse wedding and then a small dinner to follow. We will have a private room and 25 adults and 6 children attending. It is a buffet style dinner. I am just looking for suggestions to keep the guest entertained. Thanks!

Answer 1

The only thing we did was have a photo slideshow running of our childhood and our dating years.  Everyone really enjoyed it--we put some comments on some of the pictures.  Other than that, just some mood music in the background.  The people will just want to visit with you, no need to plan any formal activities.

Answer 2

You could make up prizes

and raffle them off such as:

gift cards, lottery tickets,

house hold items, etc

prices of above ranging from

$5-$50

Answer 3

Have an emcee (host) to keep the flow moving. Have a slideshow played either before or after dinner. Have a seperate area for children to eat and play games. Their parents will truly appreciate it. Ask a few close friends to offer toasts or share their memories. It doesnt have to be elaborate. Something intimate and simple will be priceless.

Answer 4

Since your reception will be so small there's no need to hire a band or DJ, however you will need some music in the background because dead silence would be awkward for everyone. The slide show is a great idea for entertainment as is the new trend of the bride and groom doing a choreographed first dance, this might spur some of your guests into dancing a bit. Have some activities for the kids such as crayons and coloring books, hula hoops, even a long stick for the limbo game. Ask around your family and friends, maybe someone is in a music or dance group and would offer to do a number for your guests.

Answer 5

Other than having soft background music, you don't need planned activities.  People will talk to each other, offer some toasts, and talk to you.  

Answer 6

The slide show idea is great, but don't feel as if you have to have it.

The guests will definitely visit with each other and the two of you, so don't feel like you have to have a night's worth of activities planned!

I would have at least a CD player with two or three CD's of music for background and something for the kids.  Go to the dollar store & get color books,crayons, stickers, etc. for them.  Try to have a separate table for them if possible too!

At some point after the meal or during the meal, either your groom or you should stand and thank everyone for joining you.  If you want to open the floor for other toasts you can, but don't feel like you have to.