The Reception
While it is less nerve racking than the wedding ceremony, there are still a few obstacles during the reception that you will need your composure for:
The Speeches
Whether you are delivering a speech, or on the receiving end of one, it is important to remain confident. While many people are nervous when publicly talking, it is crucial not to succumb to the temptation of a little “Dutch Courage” beforehand. This will probably have a heightened effect while you are on a high from the ceremony, and vastly impair your ability to remember the words in order, possibly cause red flushes in your face, and worst of all, for those that drink less frequently, potentially make you slur your words or become giddy.
As the speech is a memory that will stay with you and your guests forever, try to inject a little light humour, nothing too offensive, and avoid using expletives or targeting a particular guest too heavily. Remember, nobody there is judging you, and it is all in the name of celebrating your happiness.
If you are on the receiving end of the speech, always take it in good humour, especially if it’s your spouse’s turn to speak. It is vital to make them feel supported; after all, your approval is the only one that really counts. Showing disdain quickly spreads and can create a disastrous speech.
The First Dance
Unless you are a skilled and proficient dancer, don’t try anything too ambitious. A gentle sway while you are in the spotlight will fill the atmosphere with romance and your guests will soon show their appreciation, and become eager to join you on the dance floor.
For those with two left feet, try to rehearse your dance, with a friend and more importantly, your betrothed. Practice will eliminate the anxiety of getting it wrong, and allow you to focus on enjoying the best party you will ever throw.
The Wedding Breakfast
The best way to ensure that the food will be prepared and delivered to the standard you expect is to ensure a great communication between you and the caterer. Liaising with the chef is a must, to avoid the medium rare steak being burned to a crisp, so that he/she is fully aware of your preferences.
Select food that you will enjoy, but equally importantly, opt for meals that the whole turnout will savour. The meal is not going to be the first thing you remember about the day, but for many of the guests, it will be.
Drunken guests
The last thing anyone wants at their wedding is a fight breaking out, or an old uncle bursting into tears and loudly reminiscing about the good old days. Talk with the venue manager well in advance of the reception, and make it clear you want the bar to refuse drinks to guests who appear as though they have already had enough.
Another tactic is to order in just enough alcohol for everyone to enjoy themselves, before it runs out, or put a conservative tab behind the bar.
Don’t forget that those who want to continue drinking can make their own way to an open bar easily.
Image source : Coco Tran Photography
