Tips on Creating an Unforgettable Guest Experience
Like clockwork, the day after each of our Bow weddings, we get a text from our couples mentioning that their guests couldn’t stop raving about their day, and saying it was the best wedding they’d ever been to. Coincidence? Definitely not! We put so much time and thought into the small, unseen elements of each of our weddings to ensure they feel as good as they look.
From small gestures to large scale activations, there are a number of ways to go above and beyond to elevate your guest experience and ensure the day is as special for them as it is for you. The best thing? They don’t always have to come with a big price tag that will blow your wedding planning budget! If you want to wow your guests and leave them with unforgettable memories of your wedding, here are a few of our secret tips to create an unforgettable guest experience…
1) Personalised Touches That Speak to the Essence of You
We dream up moments that feel as good as they look, with styled experiences that are an authentic and aesthetic reflection of your love story. This includes personalised details that speak to your personality whenever possible! Whether that’s as simple as using your favourite colours, a handwritten note to each guest to incorporate your personality into your wedding day stationery… We want the vibe of your wedding to be the same vibe that you exude as a couple. Take Sarah and Daniel for example, when I first met with them the brief was completely different, sophisticated and minimal - with lilac accents to be exact. Then look where we landed! It was clear from early on that these two were the absolute life of the party couple, with a zest for life that is unmatched. Their styling concept evolved to reflect this, and we couldn't be happier where it ended up! Incorporating bold colours for a wedding that was as epic and fun as them.
There’s nothing better than authenticity, having a wedding that looks as well as feels distinctly like you will have your guests feeling the right way.
2) Interactive Elements and Unforgettable Entertainment
Imagine hitting the dance floor with all your friends and family, joined by a killer Saxophonist like Ashley James playing along to all of your favourite tunes… Turning up the tunes not quite your vibe? How about a skilled illustrator like Belinda Xia who paints each of your guests who turns the moment into a literal piece of art.
3) Seamless Logistics
I know this one doesn’t sound as sexy, but having a well organised event ensures that guests can fully immerse themselves in the celebration without having to worry about when their parking expires or who will be the designated driver and miss out on some of the fun. Putting thoughts into things like how your guests will get from your ceremony venue to your reception, or what they’ll be doing while you’re off getting your wedding portrait taken will pay dividends for your guest’ comfort and enjoyment of your day. Organisational details not your forte? These types of questions are a wedding planner's bread and butter, and we’ll be able to ensure your guests are taken care of from before they even arrive until they’re tucked up in bed…
4) Put Yourself in Your Guests Shoes - Or at Least Seat…
Take into consideration where your guests will be sitting for the majority of the time and consider what elements will be in their line of sight. This is a good way to delegate your styling budget to ensure you get the biggest bang for your buck. Our insider tip? Your guests will be spending the largest portion of their time at your reception tables as they eat dinner and listen to speeches. So, save a large portion of your budget to deliver beautiful details and an enjoyable experience here and consider all of their senses. From luxurious linen for touch, to ambient candlelight that transforms the space as the night goes on…
5) Create Breakaway Spaces
Consider creating different zones at your wedding that give your guests more options than just the dance floor. Whether it’s a cosy lounge area by the fireplace, a cigar bar or whatever else resonates with your guests. By creating a breakaway space, your guests will be able to talk about what an incredible wedding it has been without needing to yell over the loud music.
So there you have it, five tips straight from a luxury wedding planner to ensure your guests have an unforgettable time celebrating your love on your wedding day. Having an expert wedding planner will ensure your guests' experience is carefully considered and managed, of course along with your own! This will allow you, your friends and your family to be able to fully immerse yourself in the day and enjoy every moment as it unfolds.