The Do’s and Don’ts of Wedding Receptions

Your wedding reception is the moment the celebration truly begins. It’s where the formalities give way to laughter, where glasses are raised, and where memories are made on the dancefloor.

But behind every effortless reception is careful planning and thoughtful styling. To help you create an evening that feels seamless, intentional and unforgettable, I’ve pulled together some essential do’s and don’ts for your wedding reception.

Do: Think about flow

The way your guests move through the space makes a huge difference. Consider where the bar is positioned, how close tables are to the dancefloor, and whether there’s enough room for people to mingle comfortably. A well-planned layout creates energy and keeps the evening feeling alive.

Don’t: Overcrowd the space

It’s tempting to fill every corner with décor, but less is often more. Over-styling can make a room feel cluttered and detract from the overall atmosphere. Instead, focus on key areas such as the tables, the bar, or an entrance feature for maximum impact.

Do: Set the mood with lighting

Candles, fairy lights, and carefully placed uplighting can completely transform a space. Lighting isn’t just practical; it’s emotional. It creates romance, intimacy, and the kind of atmosphere your guests will never forget.

Don’t: Leave it too late to decide

Lighting and styling details often get pushed to the bottom of the list, but they’re what tie everything together. Don’t leave these choices as an afterthought... they deserve just as much attention as your dress, flowers, or menu.

Do: Personalise the details

This is your chance to let your personalities shine. Whether it’s signature cocktails, bespoke signage, or meaningful music choices, those little touches make your reception feel authentically yours.

Don’t: Forget about comfort

Guests will remember if they felt looked after. Think about seating, evening food, and keeping things cosy for older guests or little ones. When people feel comfortable, they stay longer, dance harder, and enjoy themselves more.

Do: Work with trusted suppliers

Your reception is a team effort. Florists, stylists, caterers, and musicians all play their part in creating the experience. Choosing suppliers who understand your vision means you can relax, knowing everything is in safe hands.

Don’t: Try to do it all yourself

It’s easy to underestimate just how much work goes into creating a reception. You deserve to enjoy every second without worrying about logistics. Lean on your suppliers...that’s what we’re here for.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding reception should feel effortless, beautiful, and full of joy.

By keeping these simple do’s and don’ts in mind, you’ll create an evening that not only looks stunning but feels unforgettable for you and your guests.

If you’re looking for support in bringing your reception vision to life, I’d love to help.

From florals and styling to creating the atmosphere you’ve been dreaming of, together we can transform your celebration into something truly magical.

Join my Inspiration List here

https://www.mayflowerandlily.com/lookbook

to recieve FREE hints, tips and resources to help you along on your wedding planning journey.