What Entertainment Should I Have at My Wedding?

Why Wedding Entertainment Makes All the Difference

Set the Mood and Energy for a Memorable Day

When I planned my own wedding at Vogue Ballroom back in 2017, I quickly realised that the right entertainment can make or break the atmosphere of your celebration. It’s one thing to have a beautiful venue and delicious food, but it’s the entertainment that gets people talking, laughing, and, most importantly, dancing.

Think about it. When guests arrive, they’re often a little hesitant, unsure about the tone of the event. Is it going to be a relaxed, laid-back celebration? Or are they in for a night of fun and energy? That’s where entertainment sets the stage. It’s like an invisible thread weaving through your wedding day, helping maintain energy, keeping the vibe fun, and bringing guests together.

For example, at my wedding, we had a live band that played during the reception. The minute the band struck up their first tune, the energy in the room shifted. People who had barely spoken before were suddenly singing along, and the mood was infectious. Whether it was the cocktail hour with background jazz or the upbeat songs later in the evening, the entertainment gave our guests a reason to engage and feel involved in the celebration.

Entertainment that Goes Beyond the Dance Floor

Let’s not forget that entertainment isn’t just about the dance floor – although that’s definitely a crowd favourite! The right entertainment choices also give your photographer something exciting to capture. A dynamic moment, whether it’s a magic trick, a surprise performance, or a group game, creates those candid moments that you’ll look back on for years to come. It’s not just about documenting people standing around chatting – it’s about those spontaneous moments of joy.

When you think about it, wedding entertainment is an investment in creating experiences. It’s about ensuring your guests walk away with memories they’ll treasure. From the first step into your venue, right up until the last song, entertainment can be the thing that truly defines the energy and mood of the day.

When to Incorporate Entertainment for Maximum Impact

From the Ceremony to the Reception: Timing is Key

A common question couples ask when planning entertainment is: “When should we have it?” The answer is simple: at the right times, entertainment can enhance each part of the day and keep the momentum going.

For example, at the drinks reception after the ceremony, it’s a great time to keep things light. Think solo musicians, like a harpist or a pianist, to create an elegant and inviting atmosphere while guests mingle and enjoy some drinks. You don’t want to start off with a bang; rather, you want to ease your guests into the mood.

During the meal, music can serve as background ambience. I once worked with a couple who had a string quartet play while their guests dined. It was subtle yet impactful. Music filled the quiet spaces without overpowering conversation. And it was a moment that felt both classy and intimate.

When it came time to transition between the dinner and the evening reception, we had a fun little icebreaker: a live performer who interacted with guests as they made their way from the dinner hall to the dance floor. It helped break any awkward pauses that could have occurred as the transition unfolded.

Creating a Flow of Fun Throughout Your Wedding

My advice? Don’t leave too much dead space. Whether it’s an impromptu photo booth session, a mini magic show during cocktails, or an interactive dance-off challenge later in the night, there should always be something for guests to enjoy. It ensures the event never slows down and your guests are constantly engaged.

Think of your wedding as a curated experience. Each phase, from ceremony to reception, offers a chance to bring a new element of fun. And yes, while the reception is the climax, every step leading up to it should be just as exciting.

Top Wedding Entertainment Options to Consider

Wedding Music: Live Band, DJ, or Both?

When it comes to choosing the right wedding music, you have a few options, each with its own set of benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:

• Live Band:
  • Pros:
    • High-energy performances that keep the crowd engaged.
    • Ideal for creating a lively atmosphere and getting everyone on the dance floor.
    • Can tailor the performance to your musical preferences (rock, jazz, tribute, etc.).
  • Cons:
    • More expensive than a DJ.
    • Limited by their setlist and genre.
• DJ:
  • Pros:
    • Flexible music selection (play anything from any genre).
    • Can seamlessly mix songs to keep the dance floor alive all night.
    • Generally, more affordable.
  • Cons:
    • May lack the “live” energy that a band provides.
    • Requires careful playlist curation to meet guests’ diverse tastes.
• Both:
  • Pros:
    • You get the best of both worlds: live energy for the reception and DJ flexibility for the party.
    • Versatile — a live band for the first part of the night and a DJ for the after-party.
  • Cons:
    • The cost can be higher when hiring both types of entertainment.
    • Requires coordination between the band and DJ to avoid overlap or miscommunication.

Real-life Example: A couple I worked with had a live jazz band for their reception, which played beautifully during dinner and transitioned into upbeat tunes after the meal. When the band took a break, the DJ took over, maintaining the vibe without skipping a beat. The guests loved the combination of live energy and music variety.

Bringing a Personal Touch with Live Performers and Wedding Singers

If you want to add a more personal and intimate touch, consider incorporating solo musicians or wedding singers into your day. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Solo Musicians (Pianists, Violinists, Harpists): Ideal for cocktail hours or when you want to set a romantic tone.
  
  
  • Perfect for creating a relaxed atmosphere as guests arrive or enjoy their drinks.
  • Example: At one wedding I helped with, a harpist played soft melodies during the reception. It was elegant, soothing, and set the perfect vibe for the evening.
    
    
• Wedding Singers: A wedding singer can perform during your ceremony or surprise guests with an impromptu set during the reception.
  
  
  • Adds a personal touch to your special moments, such as the first dance.
  • Example: I worked with a couple who had a wedding singer perform their first dance. It was a lovely, unforgettable moment that captured the essence of their relationship.

Tip: Choose a performer whose style aligns with the atmosphere you’re aiming for. Whether it’s a string quartet for elegance or a soulful singer for a romantic vibe, this can help set the tone for your wedding.

Wedding DJs and Curated Playlists: Customising Your Dance Floor

Creating your own playlist is a great way to inject your personality into the event. Here’s how it can work for you:

• Create Your Own Playlist: Curating a playlist for your wedding can be both fun and cost-effective.
  • Ensures the music is personally meaningful, from your favourite songs to special tracks that represent your relationship.
  • However, you’ll need to consider the technical side — it’s best to hire a DJ who can seamlessly play and transition through the playlist.
• Hire a DJ with Your Playlist: If you want a more professional touch, hire a DJ who will play your curated playlist, but also bring their expertise to the table.
  • Pros: The DJ can read the crowd and ensure the tempo fits the moment, while also including your personal playlist.
  • Cons: You may lose the flexibility of fully controlling the music, but it’s worth it for the expert balance they bring.

Example: For my own wedding, I worked with a DJ who played all the songs we’d chosen, but also threw in some crowd-pleasers to keep the dance floor packed. It was a perfect balance between personal favourites and universal hits!

Fun Performers and Visual Entertainment Ideas for Weddings

Wedding Magicians and Comedians: A Hilarious Icebreaker

While music is essential, fun performers can add a unique twist to your wedding. Magicians and comedians are two of the best ways to create laughs and memorable moments. Both can keep your guests entertained and help break the ice, especially if you have a mix of guests who don’t know each other well.

• Wedding Magicians: A magician adds a sense of wonder to your wedding. They can perform close-up tricks at the table during dinner or rove between guests during the cocktail hour.
  • Pros:
    • Great icebreaker for guests.
    • Keeps the energy light and fun during less eventful moments (like waiting for food to arrive).
  • Cons:
    • Some guests may not be into magic, so it’s a good idea to gauge if it’s the right fit for your crowd.
• Real-life example: One couple I worked with hired a magician who performed table-side tricks during dinner. Guests were amazed by the tricks, and it got everyone chatting and laughing. It was a hit, particularly for the guests who were less familiar with one another.
• Comedians: Wedding comedians are great for setting a light-hearted atmosphere. Many comedians offer tailored routines based on your relationship with your partner, and they can even include funny stories or quirky anecdotes. This works especially well if you want to provide entertainment during a meal or transition into the evening.
  • Pros:
    • Helps guests relax and laugh.
    • Sets a positive tone for the reception.
  • Cons:
    • Humour can be subjective. You’ll want to choose a comedian who understands the vibe you’re going for.
• Pro Tip: If you want a more interactive experience, consider having the comedian host games or a short trivia segment about the couple. It’s a great way to involve everyone and get the laughs flowing.

Wedding Circus Performers: Adding Wow Factor with Aerialists and Fire Breathers

If you’re looking for a more dramatic and jaw-dropping form of entertainment, circus performers like aerialists, fire breathers, or jugglers can really make your wedding stand out. These acts are perfect for outdoor venues or grand receptions where you want to add a touch of glamour and excitement.

• Aerialists: These performers will literally elevate your wedding, adding a sense of wonder as they perform gravity-defying routines.
  • Pros:
    • Impressive and elegant.
    • Perfect for creating a memorable photo op.
  • Cons:
    • Requires space and a safe environment, which may limit venue options.
• Example: At one wedding I worked on, an aerialist performed above the dance floor during the cocktail hour. The guests were mesmerised, and the photos of the performance were some of the most stunning shots from the day.
  
  
• Fire Performers: For a more dramatic effect, fire breathers or fire dancers can add a visually stunning element to your evening reception. Their routines captivate guests and bring an element of danger and awe to the event.
  • Pros:
    • A thrilling and unforgettable experience.
    • Ideal for evening or outdoor weddings where safety measures can be properly put in place.
  • Cons:
    • Needs to be carefully coordinated with your venue to ensure safety regulations are met.
• Real-world scenario: At a wedding I coordinated in the Yarra Valley, we had a fire performer entertain guests during the late-night reception. The outdoor setting with a clear sky provided the perfect backdrop, and the fire performance truly wowed the crowd. It was the perfect way to wrap up the night!

Interactive Wedding Entertainment Ideas for Everyone

Photo Booths, Karaoke, and Lawn Games: Engaging All Ages

Interactive entertainment is always a winner when it comes to keeping guests entertained and creating those spontaneous, fun moments. The key is to choose options that appeal to everyone, regardless of age or interest. Here are a few options I’ve seen work wonders:

• Photo Booths: A classic for a reason, photo booths give guests the opportunity to have fun and create memories they can take home.
  • Pros:
    • Easy to set up and always popular.
    • Fun props and backdrops make it even more engaging.
  • Cons:
    • Some guests may use it only once, but it’s still a great option for capturing those candid moments.
• Pro Tip: Go for an open-air photo booth with a custom backdrop that matches your wedding theme. This allows for larger group photos and better social media sharing opportunities.
• Karaoke: For guests who love to sing, karaoke can be a hilarious and highly interactive form of entertainment.
  • Pros:
    • It gets everyone involved and breaks down any formal barriers.
    • You’ll get some fantastic (and sometimes hilarious) performances.
  • Cons:
    • It might not be for everyone. Be mindful of how many people are comfortable with the idea of singing in front of a crowd.
• Real-life Example: I’ve seen karaoke bring a wedding to life. At a wedding I helped plan, a group of guests spontaneously took over the mic and started performing duets. What started as a few brave souls quickly turned into a mini concert with everyone getting involved, laughing, and cheering each other on.
  
  
• Lawn Games: For an outdoor wedding, lawn games like giant Jenga, cornhole, and croquet are simple but effective ways to keep guests entertained.
  • Pros:
    • Easy for guests to jump into, even if they don’t know each other.
    • Keeps guests active and encourages mingling.
  • Cons:
    • Requires space, so make sure your venue can accommodate them.
• Example: At a wedding I worked on at an outdoor venue in the Dandenong Ranges, we had lawn games set up around the garden. Guests loved the laid-back vibe, and it was a fun way to keep them engaged while they waited for the evening to kick off.

Unique Wedding Entertainment Ideas You Won’t Find at Every Wedding

If you’re looking to really surprise your guests and create a wedding that’s unforgettable, consider these unique entertainment ideas that go beyond the usual wedding offerings:

Flash Mob Surprise

Picture this: your guests are enjoying themselves, and suddenly, a well-coordinated group (perhaps the bridal party or even some unexpected guests) bursts into a surprise dance routine. It’s the ultimate way to add an element of surprise and fun to your wedding.

Real-life Example: A couple I worked with in Melbourne organised a flash mob as a surprise for their guests. After the first dance, the bridal party seamlessly transitioned into a choreographed routine. The look on the guests’ faces was priceless. It’s the kind of unforgettable moment that everyone talks about for months after the wedding.

Animal Visitors

If you want to take your wedding to the next level, consider inviting some animals to join the fun. From owls to llamas, friendly animals can add a whimsical, unique element to your big day.

Pros:

• Adds a unique experience that your guests won’t forget.
• Great for outdoor or rustic-themed weddings.

Real-life Example: I helped plan a wedding where the couple brought in a pair of owls to fly down the aisle during the ceremony. It was magical and gave their rustic wedding an enchanting vibe. Guests were absolutely mesmerised, and the photos were stunning!

Tip: When considering animal visits, make sure your venue has the proper permits and that the animals are well taken care of. Always check for any allergies or sensitivities among guests.

Temporary Tattoo Station

Temporary tattoos are a quirky and fun addition that works especially well for a relaxed wedding atmosphere. It’s a cool way for guests to express their fun side and take home a keepsake.

Real-life Example: At a wedding I coordinated in the Dandenong Ranges, the couple set up a tattoo station with themed designs related to their love story. Guests lined up to get their tattoos, and many wore them proudly for the rest of the night. It’s a perfect example of how a simple, fun idea can elevate the guest experience.

Fireworks Display

For a dramatic and visually stunning end to the evening, a fireworks display is hard to beat. It’s an awe-inspiring way to celebrate the end of your wedding day and leave your guests in awe.

Pros:

• An unforgettable grand finale.
• Creates incredible photo opportunities.

Cons:

• Weather-dependent and may be restricted by local regulations.

Tip: If you’re in a location where fireworks are restricted, you could consider alternatives like sparkler fountains, light shows, or even a drone light show to create a spectacular finale.

Interactive Wedding Entertainment for the Kids (and the Young at Heart)

Don’t forget about the little ones at your wedding! Here’s how you can keep the younger guests entertained while the adults enjoy themselves:

Kids’ Activity Area

Creating a designated kids’ space can help keep the younger guests occupied and allow their parents to relax. Simple ideas like colouring books, craft stations, or even small games can do wonders.

Pros:

• Keeps kids entertained, reducing the risk of restlessness.
• Helps parents relax and focus on the celebration.

Cons:

• Requires additional set-up and supervision, so plan accordingly.

Example: At one wedding I helped organise in the suburbs, the couple set up a small craft station in the corner of the reception hall. The kids could decorate their own cupcakes, and it kept them happy and engaged. Meanwhile, the parents were able to enjoy dinner without worrying about their kids getting bored.

Bouncy Castle

While this one might seem a bit old-fashioned, it’s still a crowd-pleaser for kids (and even some adults!). A bouncy castle adds a playful, carefree vibe to your wedding and keeps kids entertained for hours.

Pros:

• A fun way to keep kids occupied during the reception.
• Great for outdoor weddings with lots of space.

Cons:

• It’s more suited for casual weddings and may not fit every couple’s aesthetic.

Real-life Example: A wedding I worked on in the Yarra Valley had a bouncy castle set up in the garden area. It was the perfect way to keep the children busy, and as an added bonus, some of the adults joined in the fun too. It became a memorable part of the wedding!

Wedding Games for All Ages

Wedding games are a great way to get everyone involved, no matter their age. Whether it’s giant Jenga, ring toss, or even a quirky game like the “Shoe Game,” interactive games can break the ice and add some fun to the evening.

Example: For a wedding in the Melbourne CBD, I set up a “Guess the Guest” trivia game. It asked guests questions about the bride and groom, and everyone had a laugh trying to guess the answers. Not only did it engage the guests, but it also gave them a reason to mingle and talk to one another.

Budget-Friendly Entertainment Ideas You Can DIY

Wedding entertainment doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here are some affordable, do-it-yourself entertainment ideas that can still pack a punch:

Create Your Own Wedding Playlist

If you’re on a tight budget but still want personalised music, consider creating your own playlist and playing it through a sound system. You can carefully curate every song for different parts of your wedding, ensuring it’s meaningful to you both.

Pros:

• Completely customisable.
• Saves money compared to hiring a DJ or live band.

Cons:

• Requires good speakers and equipment.
• You may need a bit of technical know-how to set everything up correctly.

Tip: You can hire a DJ to handle the technical side and play your playlist, but at least you’ll save money on the music selection and overall time commitment.

DIY Photo Booth

A DIY photo booth is super easy to set up and always a hit. Grab a camera or smartphone, set up a simple backdrop, and provide fun props for guests to use. You can also create a social media hashtag to let guests share their photos on the spot.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly and easy to create.
• Guests get fun memories and photos to take home.

Cons:

• You may need someone to monitor it and make sure it runs smoothly.

Tip: For a truly DIY touch, create your own props (think funny glasses, hats, and themed signs) to match your wedding theme.

Lawn Games

Lawn games like giant Jenga, cornhole, or croquet are simple, low-cost ways to keep your guests entertained, especially at an outdoor wedding.

Pros:

• Inexpensive and easy to buy or make.
• Fun for guests of all ages.

Cons:

• Needs to be suitable for your wedding venue’s layout and weather conditions.

Example: For a couple’s wedding in the countryside, we set up lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga. Not only was it fun, but it also encouraged mingling between guests who didn’t know each other.

With these creative ideas, you can create a wedding experience that’s truly unique and memorable for all of your guests, no matter your budget. The key is to choose entertainment that reflects your personality as a couple while keeping your guests entertained and engaged throughout the day.

Choosing the Right Wedding Entertainment for Your Big Day

Reflect Your Personality and Wedding Theme

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing your wedding entertainment is ensuring it reflects you and your partner’s personalities. After all, your wedding should be a celebration of who you are, so why not infuse your entertainment choices with personal touches that feel authentic to both of you?

For example, at a wedding I coordinated in the Melbourne city centre, the couple were both huge fans of live music. Instead of a traditional DJ, they opted for a folk band that played during the reception. Their love for acoustic tunes was woven throughout the entire event, creating an intimate and relaxed vibe. The music perfectly matched their laid-back style and set the tone for a memorable celebration.

Consider Your Guests: Varied Entertainment for All Ages

When selecting entertainment, don’t forget to consider your guests. Weddings tend to bring together a wide range of people – from young children to older family members. It’s important to find entertainment that appeals to everyone. For example, you might want to consider mixing things up with a variety of options that cater to different interests.

At a wedding I helped plan, the couple had a mix of young children, teenagers, and older relatives in attendance. To keep everyone engaged, they hired a magician to entertain guests during the cocktail hour, set up lawn games for the kids, and had a DJ for the evening reception. By offering a range of entertainment, everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, had a memorable time.

Tip: You can cater to all ages by offering a few entertainment options, such as a photo booth for fun memories, a quiet area for older guests, and high-energy games or performances for the younger crowd.

Venue Considerations: Ensuring the Space Suits Your Entertainment Choices

Before settling on any particular entertainment option, it’s crucial to make sure your venue can accommodate it. Space, sound systems, power access, and noise restrictions are all factors that could influence your decision. For example, if your venue has noise restrictions, you might want to avoid loud live music and instead opt for a DJ or a more subtle entertainment style, like a string quartet.

At a wedding I worked on in an inner-city venue, the couple initially wanted a loud rock band, but the venue had strict noise regulations. They had to adapt by hiring a DJ who played rock remixes, which still gave them the vibe they wanted but kept within the venue’s limits.

Tip: Always check with your venue before finalising your entertainment options. They may have recommendations or restrictions that you need to consider.

Budgeting for Wedding Entertainment

How Much Should You Spend on Wedding Entertainment?

Wedding entertainment is an investment that can leave a lasting impact on your guests. According to industry advice, it’s recommended that couples spend around 10-15% of their wedding budget on entertainment. While this is a good guideline, don’t be afraid to adjust based on your priorities. If you feel entertainment is the key element that will bring your celebration to life, consider allocating a bit more of your budget to ensure you get high-quality entertainers.

Real-life Example: I’ve worked with couples who chose to prioritise entertainment over extravagant floral arrangements or expensive decorations. In the end, they were thrilled with the results. The entertainment created an atmosphere that far outweighed any other visual elements, and guests were still talking about the wedding long after the event.

Balancing Cost and Quality: Getting the Best Value for Your Entertainment Budget

It’s easy to get carried away with adding flashy entertainment options, but it’s important to make sure that what you’re paying for is worth the investment. Look for reputable entertainers who have experience with weddings and who can offer value through both their performance and service.

Tip: One way to get the best value is by researching reviews and asking for recommendations from vendors you trust. If you’re hiring a band, ask if they’ve played at weddings before and if they can tailor their set to your specific tastes.