Lounge Act
If at all possible, create a lounge-like area in your reception space like the French do. Since people can get antsy sitting around the same dinner tables all night, a change of environment will promote conversation and keep even your non-dancing guests entertained. Look into renting or borrowing couches, chairs, and other pieces of furniture that you can then stage with pillows and votive candles in your wedding colors.
After the Party, It's the After-Party
Keep the party going long after the formal reception ends. Even if your reception venue shuts down your reception at a certain time, you can keep the party going by inviting your guests to an after-party. Now this can be as fancy and formal as you like, but you don't have to spend an arm and a leg on an after-party. You and your guests can gather in a hotel bar or restaurant lounge at no charge.
Good Food, Good Drink and Good Music
No matter what you decide to incorporate into your wedding reception, keeping your guests happy will almost always ensure a memorable celebration. And experience teaches that keeping guests happy hinges on executing the "happy guest trifecta"--good food, good drink and good music! So make sure the food is hot and tasty, the drinks are plentiful, and the music is constant and speaks to the sensibilities of the crowd. Perfecting these elements will ensure a fabulous celebration!
Photo Finish
Capture the spirit of the evening by renting or making your own photo booth. Friends and family can really ham it up and create great keepsakes. You and your husband will have the best time remembering the guests at your wedding through the photo booth pictures. Don’t forget silly probs and and a social media hashtag.