Planning Your Wedding Reception Entertainment? Here’s Some Wedding Advice You Can’t Afford to Miss!

When planning your wedding, you’ll undoubtedly receive plenty of advice from well-meaning friends and family. However, not all of it will be useful! Over the years, we’ve come across some truly questionable suggestions, so we’re here to share the best and worst advice we’ve encountered.

BEST: “You definitely need to hire a band!”
A live band creates an incredible atmosphere and gets everyone onto the dance floor. Consider a ceilidh band, which is particularly popular as it encourages guests of all ages to join in the fun. It’s an excellent way to ensure your evening reception is lively and memorable.

WORST: “Music? Don’t worry, your Spotify playlist is more than enough. Plus, it’s free.”
While a Spotify playlist might save you some money, relying solely on it can result in a less dynamic atmosphere. Professional bands or DJs know how to read a crowd and keep the energy high, which makes all the difference in creating an unforgettable event.

BEST: “A photographer for the wedding reception? Absolutely!”
The most candid and joyous moments often happen in the evening when everyone is relaxed and having fun. Hiring a photographer to capture these memories ensures you’ll have beautiful images to look back on—moments you might otherwise miss.

WORST: “You don’t need a photographer in the evening. People will just take photos on their phones.”
While guests will take photos, they’re often low quality and may not capture the essence of the evening. A professional photographer knows how to capture the mood, the lighting, and those perfect moments that you’ll cherish forever.

BEST: “A photo booth is a must!”
Photo booths are incredibly popular and offer fun for guests of all ages. They also provide instant prints, which can double as wedding favours. It’s a wonderful way for your guests to take home a piece of the celebration.

WORST: “You don’t need a professional photo booth. Just set up a Polaroid with some props.”
While a DIY setup might sound easy, it often falls short in terms of quality and enjoyment. A professional photo booth offers better lighting, high-quality prints, and a much more engaging experience for your guests. Plus, older guests enjoy it just as much as the younger ones!

BEST: “Serve some evening food!”
Having food available later in the evening, such as cheese platters or a brisket, is always appreciated. It helps to soak up the alcohol and keeps the party going. Your guests will thank you for it the next day!

WORST: “Don’t bother with evening food if your main meal is later. Drinks are enough!”
Skipping the evening food might seem like a way to save money, but it can leave guests feeling worse for wear. A little extra food goes a long way in ensuring everyone enjoys the celebration and remembers it fondly.

We hope you found this a fun and insightful read! Our top tip is to take advice with a pinch of salt. Ultimately, your wedding should reflect what makes you happy. Whether you choose a band, a photo booth, or something entirely different, the most important thing is that you have no regrets.

For more expert wedding planning tips, check out our blog. We’ve also shared some fantastic wedding entertainment ideas on the Mad Hat Photo Booth blog to help you plan your perfect evening!

And if you’re looking to save a bit on your wedding day, don’t miss our guide on how to use a photo booth backdrop in five creative ways!

Also, if you actually want to save some money on your wedding day, here’s some ideas on how to use a photo booth backdrop 5 ways!