Liven up your Reception! Unique Ideas for the not-so-faint-of-heart.

From Jazz to Jugglers

By Ellenina Gaston

Feeling a little adventurous? Looking for ways to liven up your reception entertainment? Here are some unique ideas for the not-so-faint-of-heart.

Every once in a while you run into a couple that likes to do things a little different. They choose a theme for their wedding that goes beyond a color scheme, or select entertainment for their reception that's pure fun and fantasy.

For the Creative and Daring
An acquaintance recently told me about a couple who had their wedding at a local Renaissance fair complete with knights, damsels, jugglers, magicians and an assorted cast of characters who amused and delighted the guests. I started thinking about the reception entertainment possibilities that are available for the more creative and daring among us. Here are some suggestions for ways to liven up your reception from the simple to the extravagant.

Put On a Show
If a musical theme is what you're looking for, then maybe hiring a group to put on a show during dinner is just the thing to get the party started. Entertainers are available that can bring the Roaring 20's to life or put on a Rat Pack Revue. You may want to find a venue that embodies a specific type of music. For example, The Chicago Fine Arts Exchange is an art gallery and event hall. The Jazz Lounge at the Exchange features murals that depict the heyday of places like The Cotton Club, and would be the perfect setting for a jazz ensemble to entertain your guests.

Outdoor Ideas
For a more casual outdoor reception, you may want to consider renting an inflatable "bouncer" for the children in attendance. You can hire a caricature artist to sketch your guests as a keepsake of the event, or create a carnival atmosphere with magicians, clowns, jugglers or stilt-walkers. Some may even opt for carnival games or rides but, unless you live on a ranch, finding a location to host the event might be tricky.

Thinking Exotic?
When you have a taste for the exotic, there's one place that can offer you everything from Paris to Pirates. Yes, I'm talking about Las Vegas. From Circus Circus to the Luxor, you can party with clowns, Egyptians and even Elvis. The focus here is on fun and it's a perfect spot for a small gathering of family and friends. Another destination offering the possibility of exotic entertainment is Hawaii. Imagine your reception luau complete with fire dancers and hula lessons.

When it comes to reception revelry, you don't have to limit yourself to hiring a variety band or DJ. You can add your own personal touch to the festivities with a creative flair and sense of adventure. After all, your wedding is a reflection of your personality, so make it everything you dreamed of and more.