If there’s one thing that’s essential to a successful wedding planning process it’s the habit of keeping lists. There are just way too many elements that go into planning a wedding to attempt winging it as you go or working from memory. Try it and you’re sure to get lost in all the details. Luckily there are plenty of monthly planning checklists readily available online to help you work through the process. What’s harder to come by is a comprehensive list of the essentials you need to source to pull off the big party. But not to worry. We’ve got you covered! Here’s the rundown of the basics you need to consider for your wedding reception, along with some on trend examples of each. Happy Planning!
The Essentials Checklist:
- Seating Chart, Escort Cards or Place Cards
- Table Numbers
- Guest Book and Pen
- Wishing Well
- Cake Topper
- Cake Serving Set
- Toasting Flutes
Seating Plan
Unless you’re having a very small and intimate dinner party style reception, a seating plan is a must. Guide your guests to their seats with either a creative seating chart fit to theme or beautifully displayed escort cards. Take it one step further by assigning seating at each table with the use of a place card in a lovely little holder.
Table Numbers
A well thought through seating plan is for nothing without a well marked table. Most venues provide a standard table number option you can use, but check with them to make sure. To elevate the look consider using a custom table number, fit perfectly to your event design.
Guest Book
Some traditions are well worth keeping. Create an instant wedding keepsake by incorporating a guest book into your reception where all who attend can leave their permanent mark and well wishes.
Wishing Well
Want the sentimental keepsake offering a guest book provides but looking for a bit more creativity in the display? If so consider a uniquely designed Wishing Well where guest’s notes are marked on custom cards.
Cake Topper and Serving Set
Finish off your beautiful cake with an equally gorgeous cake topper. Pick something that either represents you as a couple, or go for something fit to theme. And remember a cake knife and server set for the sweet tradition of the cake cutting.
Toasting Flutes
Don’t forget one of the best reigning wedding traditions, the toasting of the two of you as the new Mr. and Mrs. Pick a stylish set of flutes that you’ll enjoy time and again after the big day.
Ready to Shop?
If you’re ready to get your reception essentials shopping started, we’ve compiled everything you see here (and more) into an easy to shop checklist. You can download your copy right here and when you’re ready visit the Reception section of weddingstar.com for 100s of accessory options.
xoxo.
