Your wedding day is meant to be one of the most joyful and memorable days of your life. But let’s be honest—some weddings can feel a little… stiff. Long speeches, formal seating, and endless waiting around can leave even your closest guests glancing at their watches.
Fortunately, there’s good news! With a bit of planning and creativity, you can ensure your celebration is bursting with fun and energy. Whether you’re planning a rustic boho bash, a chic city soirée, or a quirky garden gathering, these savvy tips for wedding entertainment will keep your guests smiling all day long.
Bring on the games
Nothing fosters camaraderie more effectively than a friendly competition! Wedding games aren’t just fun—they’re the perfect way to bring guests together, especially if not everyone knows each other.
Try these guest-approved favourites:
- Giant Jenga—A great laugh and surprisingly competitive
- Lawn games—Think croquet, boules, or ring toss for a summer wedding
- Fairground classics—Add a carnival vibe with hook-a-duck, knock-the-cans, or tin can alley
- Axe throwing (yes, really!)—for the bold and adventurous. Just make sure it’s run by pros and has safety in place!
These options double as excellent photo ops and give guests something to enjoy between ceremony and reception.
Music is your magic ingredient
Music sets the mood—and can totally transform your wedding atmosphere. From ceremony to late-night dancing, it’s worth getting right.
Music ideas to match your vibe:
- Live bands—Add a personal touch with a jazz trio, acoustic folk band, or even a roaming mariachi group
- DJs are an excellent choice for the after-party. Create a playlist with crowd-pleasers and throwback hits
- Local open mic artists – Check out up-and-coming talent for something fresh and affordable
- String quartets or harpists—for elegant ceremony vibes
Consider having different music styles throughout the day—gentle tunes for dinner and high-energy beats after dark.
Take a breather during the day
Weddings are fun—but they’re also tiring, especially for the couple. There won’t be much time for you to breathe between the photos, mingling, and dancing.
Smart tip:
Consider arranging your reception at the same venue or hotel where you will be staying. That way, you and your partner can sneak away for 15 minutes of quiet, freshen up, and come back to the party energised.
It’s your day. Give yourself permission to enjoy it without being “on” the entire time.
Keep the kids entertained
Happy kids = happy parents, = a smoother wedding day for everyone. Children get restless quickly, so entertainment tailored to little ones is a must.
Kid-friendly options:
- Magicians or clowns—keep them giggling during cocktail hour
- Bouncy castles—great for outdoor weddings and high energy
- Arts and crafts tables—Simple, mess-free fun
- Quiet packs—At each child’s seat, include colouring books, crayons, puzzles, and snacks
These thoughtful touches show your guests you’ve considered their whole family—not just the grown-ups.
Create interactive photo zones
Selfies are great—but fun photo zones are better.
Ideas to consider:
- Themed photo booths—with props, frames, and instant prints
- Polaroid guestbook—guests snap a pic and leave a note
- DIY backdrop walls—balloons, florals, or fringe for maximum Instagrammability
Bonus: These keep guests entertained and create visual memories that last long after the last dance.
Quirky extras to surprise your guests
Want your wedding to stand out? Include unexpected mini-experiences throughout the day.
Fun extras:
- Caricature artists—a hilarious keepsake for guests to take home
- Silent disco—everyone dances to their own beat (literally!)
- S’mores stations or candy carts—for that nostalgic, late-night treat
- Fortune teller or tarot reader—a magical twist that gets people talking
Think about what makes you two unique, and let that inspire your add-ons!
Final thoughts: make it your kind of fun
What is the secret to creating amazing wedding entertainment? Make it personal. Whether you’re into live music, carnival games, or spontaneous dance-offs, the best entertainment reflects you. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; it simply needs to elicit smiles, encourage movement, and foster memories.
Don’t be afraid to break a few traditions. Skip the stuffy timeline, shake things up, and plan a day where everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—feels included and entertained.
You might also like:
- 10 Unique Guestbook Alternatives That Wow
- How to Plan a Pet-Friendly Wedding
- Summer Wedding Playlist Essentials
Tip: Add an entertainment timeline to your day-of schedule so your vendors and guests know what’s happening when.
