Make a Big Wedding Seem Intimate With These Tips
It can be nice to be a part of a big family. Though having a lot of siblings can definitely come with some disadvantages, there is comfort in knowing you always have people around you to provide love and support. Still, there are times when a big family can become problematic. Planning a wedding, for example, tends to be a lot more complicated when you feel obligated to invite a large number of guests. The real challenge most couples face is how to throw a big wedding while still making it seem intimate.
If you and your partner are currently planning a large wedding, you might need a bit of advice on how to keep everything comfortable and intimate for your guests. Consider these tips, and see what you need to do to get the most from your planning experience.
An Intimate Welcome
From the second your guests enter the venue, you want to make sure they feel welcomed into the space. This can be tough with a big crowd, as guests might feel like they’re being herded from the parking lot to the reception area like cattle. To break this feeling, a cocktail hour can help. This hour is perfect for guests to indulge in a drink, some light snacking, and good conversation with others before the main reception area is ready. This small idea can work wonders when it comes to helping cultivate an intimate atmosphere.
How the reception area is arranged can also make or break the idea of intimacy during your event. Instead of opting for individual tables for guests, you may find it is more welcoming to have long, feast-style tables. This allows guests the chance to really get close to one another. Plus, you may even be able to ditch the idea of assigned seating when you go this route, which is another way to keep guests feeling special and welcomed rather than making them feel like just another person at the event.
Don’t Create Barriers, Do Create Space
It can also be a good idea to take a moment or two to think about the décor you plan on featuring at your wedding. Some couples enjoy the idea of large, lavish centerpieces. While it can be nice to add some personality to the space through clever décor, also make sure you aren’t creating any annoying barriers for your guests. The larger the centerpiece is on the table, the harder it is going to be for guests to communicate with, or even see, the other people they are sitting with.
When there are a lot of people at an event, some guests may hold back and keep to themselves. Since many people don’t love having to interact with large crowds, you might want to consider the option of a separate area where guests can go to unwind. A little lounge space, whether inside or outside, might be able to provide your shyer guests with a nice little respite from all of the excitement happening inside. Plus, it gives you and your partner a more intimate place to sneak off to when you need a break yourselves.
Your Interactions Matter
Finally, nothing makes guests feel more welcome at a wedding than having a moment or two with the happy couple. Though there are lots of people you need to interact with, it is good form to make a plan of action to ensure you at least attempt to say hello or check in with all your guests. By focusing on this goal, you’re doing your best to help everyone feel like they’re a part of the event rather than a part of a crowd.
Large groups can easily pose a challenge when planning a wedding. The more time you take to help keep the event intimate, the easier it becomes to help all your guests have an enjoyable experience.