Lakeside wedding reception ideas

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A lakeside reception can by idyllic and dreamy, but there are certain challenges to keep in mind. If your lakeside spot isn't part of a public park or another area that is clearly marked, be sure to place large signs that lead from the main road down to your reception site so guests won't get lost. Be sure to rent a tent or have a backup location in case of rain so you can enjoy your day without worrying about the weather.

1. Arrive by Boat

   • Make your grand entrance and exit by boat. Hire a boat or ask a friend who owns one to be your chauffeur. Have the limo drop you off at a dock on the other side of the lake from the reception where the boat is waiting, then drive up to the reception while all the guests are gathered on the shore. Decorate the dock in advance with flower petals or candles to make your first entrance as a married couple even more special. At the end of the reception, the guests can wave sparklers as you leave by boat and head back to the dock where the limo waits. Invite the bridal party to ride in the boat with you or ask them to take a car to the reception if you and your spouse want to arrive alone.

   Blanket Favors

   • Since it can get cool and windy next to a lake, especially in the evening, "The Knot" suggests giving blankets as favors to your guests. Buy blankets in bulk that match your wedding colors if possible. Place the blankets on the guests' chairs so they can use them during the evening if they get chilly.

   Twinkle Lights

   • Use twinkle lights to make the reception feel romantic and to light the area after dark. Hang strands of white or yellow twinkle lights in the bushes and inside the tent. Wrap them around tree trunks and arrange them in the tree branches. If there's a dock, string the lights along the edge. Stick stakes in the ground at the edge of the lake and string the lights in between them. This will provide light for any guests who want to walk by the lake and will be a beautiful backdrop for photos.

   Provide Flip-Flops

   • Some guests are bound to come to the reception wearing heels, which will make walking in the grass or sand difficult. Buy several dozen pairs of cheap flip-flops in a variety of sizes and place them in a basket near where guests will enter the reception. Guests who don't want to go barefoot can change into flip-flops so they won't have to miss out on dancing or walking in the grass or sand.

   Games

   • An outdoor lakeside wedding will make guests feel like they're celebrating a long weekend in summer, and having some games will add to that vibe. It's also a good way to entertain any children who are attending your ceremony. Avoid any games that involve running or are noisy and opt instead for a bean bag toss, table tennis or shuffleboard. Set everything up just off to the side of your reception area so the games are easily accessible without being disruptive to other guests.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: grass sand, Lakeside wedding reception, reception ideas, string lights, walking grass, walking grass sand, wedding reception