When planning a wedding, many couples follow a basic template. Specifically, the event usually can be broken into two main parts: the ceremony and the reception. While the ceremony is integral to making the marriage official, the reception offers more flexibility. Instead of a typical reception, you may find it more appealing to pursue an enticing alternative that still captures the heart of revelry. From cruises to camp-outs, finding a fun wedding reception that speaks to your personality can make your big day feel more fulfilling. 

A Night on the Water

The average reception tends to be built around dancing and drinking. However, you don’t need to remain on dry land to include these components. Instead of booking a traditional venue, consider taking to the water for a post-ceremony cruise. If you live near a large body of water, bringing your guests onboard a party boat can infuse some excitement into your event. Not only is this a fun way to celebrate your union, but the breathtaking views that come along with spending a night on a boat can make for some phenomenal photos. 

A Trip Into the Wilderness

Some people love the outdoors. If you and your partner consider yourselves nature enthusiasts, then you may wish to include your interests in a more direct way on your big day. After the ceremony has ended, invite family and friends on an excursion into the woods. You don’t need to demand that everyone roughs it, either. Opting for campgrounds that include cabins with functional bathrooms is the best way to guarantee that even the most cosmopolitan of your guests feels comfortable during your celebration. 

You may even want to infuse your decision with some “glamping” energy. Hang string lights from branches, clear out a makeshift dance floor, and find simple ways to bring the comforts of modern living into the great outdoors.

An Outdoor Meal

You don’t need to go camping to include the beauty of nature in your wedding plans. Instead of going the traditional route with your wedding reception, a fun alternative can be booking a variety of food trucks in an outdoor space. Include music and a place to dance to give it more of a reception feel, working closely with the vendors to arrange the setup in a way that maximizes the flow of traffic. Guests will be able to wander from truck to truck, tasting a plethora of local flavors while enjoying the ambiance you’ve created. 

A Way To Cool Off

Are you planning to tie the knot in the middle of summer? Plenty of couples prefer this season for their events, but the temperatures can become a nuisance. If your wedding will be held where heat is relentless, consider a reception where guests can cool down. A party that takes place at a venue with a pool is a perfect example. Have guests bring along their bathing suits, and turn a traditional gathering into a raucous pool party. You can even give out monogrammed towels as fun wedding gifts. 

A Delayed Party

There is no rule stating that you must have your reception immediately following your ceremony. Whether you want to save funds or waste no time before your honeymoon, pushing the celebration off until a later date can be a great alternative. Since countless couples had to postpone their weddings during the spread of the novel coronavirus in 2020, many guests are now used to the idea of waiting a bit to congregate for an important event. However, try to pick a date for the reception when you set the ceremony date. This way you won’t leave your guests in the lurch. 

While a standard reception can be a fantastic setting for a celebration, it is far from the only option available. Get creative and see how you can put your own spin on tradition when your big day arrives.