How to Entertain Your Wedding Guests During the Afternoon: From Ceremony to Reception

So, the ceremony’s over. The vows are exchanged, the rings are on, and your guests are brimming with excitement.

But what happens in the space between saying “I do” and the first toast?

For couples, this window of opportunity is a chance to keep everyone entertained, comfortable, and connected to the moment.

We’ve played a part in countless weddings, and one thing is clear: the “gap” between the ceremony and reception doesn’t have to feel empty. With a little planning and the right entertainment, it can be one of the highlights of the day.

Live Music That Sets the Tone

Too many couples underestimate the impact of music during this transitional period. Live acoustic sets, piano covers, or a wandering saxophone performance can create a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere while guests sip drinks and enjoy canapés.

Consider your venue’s acoustics and layout. A string quartet might be perfect for a grand hall, while a solo guitarist or singer-pianist works wonderfully for an outdoor setting.

If you’re tying the knot in the South West, every wedding band we offer includes the option of an acoustic set during the afternoon - a way to add live music without overpowering conversation. The right soundtrack encourages mingling, sparks connection, and sets a joyful, celebratory tone.

Fun Outdoor Activities

If your venue has gardens, terraces, or lawns, this is the time to get your guests moving. Outdoor games like croquet, giant Jenga, or bocce are a hit among both adults and children. They’re straightforward to set up and give your photographer extra candid moments to capture.

To broaden the mix, activities like a soft archery set, oversized noughts-and-crosses, or mini crazy golf add variety and keep the afternoon interesting. These pair well with traditional lawn games without feeling over the top.

🎓 Pro tip: Choose entertainment that suits all ages and abilities, with standing and seated options so everyone can join in. Some heel protectors or a few mats enable guests to move around comfortably without sinking into the grass.

For families, consider a small play corner, scavenger hunt, or simple crafts - keeping children happy allows parents to relax and enjoy the drinks reception.

Refreshments and Interactive Stations

A little something to nibble on or sip will make your guests feel cared for. Think grazing boards, chilled prosecco, or seasonal refreshments like Pimm’s or fresh elderflower cordial. Small touches like this help keep the mood light and everyone ready for the next part of the celebration.

Interactive stations take this a step further. Personalised cocktail bars, hot chocolate stations in winter, or bespoke canapés that guests can decorate themselves aren’t just fun - they give your wedding a personal touch, making your celebration feel curated and thoughtful.

Even simple additions, like a roaming caricaturist or magician, can add a burst of energy without disrupting the atmosphere. From our experience, guest-led moments like these leave a lasting impression and are highly shareable on social media.

Photo and Memory Corners

Another way to engage everyone is with a themed photo booth or Polaroid station. People love leaving a personal mark, and it helps the afternoon unfold naturally while you sneak off for portraits. Venues with stunning backdrops allow your guests to take scenic snaps that double up as instant keepsakes.

While you’re at it, set up an interactive guestbook nearby. Guests can tuck their photos inside and add a quick note, drawing, or message.

For a modern twist with vintage appeal, try an audio guestbook - a retro-style telephone where guests can leave voice messages filled with laughter, stories, and the occasional tipsy confession.

According to the wedding planners and photographers we’ve worked with, guestbook stations not only entertain but also encourage quieter guests to get involved, invite conversation, and contribute creative touches that capture the spirit of your day.

Playful Entertainment Ideas

If you’re looking to surprise guests with something a little different, these artistic and playful entertainment options always go down a storm in the afternoon.

A live painter can capture your wedding as it unfolds - brushstrokes turning joy, light, and movement into a one-of-a-kind piece. It’s both performance and art, drawing a crowd without stealing focus.

A poet on a typewriter offers a beautifully charming touch - crafting spontaneous poems for your guests to take home. From heartfelt to humorous, each one is a tiny, typed memento that captures a fragment of your day through words.

For a dose of competition, casino tables are a brilliant afternoon-friendly option. Think roulette or blackjack with fake money - no stakes, just light-hearted fun, a bit of rivalry, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Or, to add a dash of intrigue, invite a fortune-teller or tarot reader to set up a corner of curiosity. Guests can wander over for a glimpse into their “future” - it’s conversational, a little mysterious, and always leaves people smiling.

Keep Everyone Informed

Even with entertainment planned, clear communication is key. Use your wedding website or printed itinerary to let guests know what’s happening between the ceremony and reception. Highlight any activities, music, photo opportunities, or refreshments so nobody feels lost.

For larger outdoor spaces, having ushers or venue staff in place can make a huge difference. Experienced professionals help direct guests between activities, oversee stations and games, and ensure everyone knows where they need to be. This keeps everything running smoothly and maintains a lively, engaging atmosphere throughout the transition.

Time cues are also important. Share your planned schedule with your suppliers so everyone can work in sync. This avoids awkward pauses, ensures the entertainment starts on time, and helps the whole day feel polished and well-organised - something we’ve seen make a real difference at weddings across the West Country.

Typical drinks receptions last 60-90 minutes, giving you enough time for music, games, and photos without feeling rushed.

🎓 Pro tip: A gentle chime or bell can signal when something is about to happen - like a toast, moving from drinks to canapés, or a group photo - giving guests a subtle heads-up.

Weather Considerations

Lawn games, wandering musicians, and alfresco drinks receptions are fantastic, but the weather is famously unpredictable. Always have a backup plan in case of rain. Venues often have covered terraces, marquees, or intimate indoor spaces that are perfect for acoustic sets or smaller interactive stations.

At FPM, we advise couples to speak with their venue regarding indoor options for both music and activities. This ensures guests remain comfortable, the mood stays elevated, and your entertainment flows seamlessly - rain or shine.

🎓 Pro tip: If the skies open up, don’t stress - rain can create a romantic, cosy atmosphere (and breathtaking photos). For more tips on making the most of a rainy wedding day, check out our wet-weather guide here.

Accessibility and Comfort

A little planning goes a long way in making sure every guest feels included. For games, activity stations, or roaming musicians, consider the mobility of elderly guests and children. Keep pathways clear, offer seating near entertainment spots, and ensure indoor alternatives for those who may need them.

By factoring in accessibility, you not only enhance guest experience but demonstrate thoughtful, professional planning - something that’ll elevate your wedding and leave a lasting impression.

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Turning Transitions into Highlights

With the right approach, the time between your ceremony and reception can become one of the most enjoyable parts of the day, keeping guests entertained, engaged, and excited for what’s next.

Across the South West, FPM Music Management has helped numerous couples make every moment count - from small, intimate get-togethers to grand celebrations - providing live music that amplifies emotion at every stage.

If you’re celebrating in this part of the country and want your guests to be delighted, immersed, and smiling before the first dance, get in touch. We’ll help make your wedding seamless and stylish, curating moments you’ll treasure forever.