How to Choose Entertainment for Your Wedding

Choosing the right entertainment for your wedding is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your big day. Entertainment sets the tone for the celebration, keeping your guests engaged and creating lasting memories. At Manor By The Lake, a stunning venue nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, you’ll have the perfect backdrop to make your wedding day truly unforgettable. Here’s how to choose the best entertainment options for your wedding, ensuring your guests are thoroughly entertained from start to finish.

Before selecting entertainment, it’s crucial to think about your guests and what they would enjoy. Are they lively and social, or more laid-back and reserved? A younger crowd might prefer an energetic DJ or live band, while older guests may appreciate a more relaxed acoustic performance or a string quartet. Take into consideration the diverse range of people attending, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. At Manor By The Lake, the intimate and beautiful surroundings can accommodate a wide variety of entertainment, so you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your choices to your guests’ preferences.

Music plays a vital role in creating the atmosphere of your wedding. Whether you choose a live band, DJ, or string quartet, your choice of music will help set the mood throughout the day.

• Live Band: For a lively atmosphere, a live band is an excellent choice. They can cater to various genres, from pop and rock to jazz or even classical music. A live band can create a more interactive experience, allowing your guests to enjoy the energy and excitement of a performance.
  
• DJ: If you want to ensure that every song played hits the mark, a DJ is the way to go. They have an extensive library of songs, from old favourites to the latest chart hits, and can tailor the playlist to suit the vibe of your wedding.
  
• String Quartet or Soloist: For a more elegant and refined atmosphere, consider a string quartet or a soloist during the ceremony or reception. This type of music adds a touch of sophistication to your wedding, creating a serene and beautiful backdrop for key moments such as the ceremony and speeches.

Interactive wedding entertainment can elevate your wedding by encouraging guests to get involved and have fun. There are plenty of options to choose from, depending on your style.

• Photo Booths: A photo booth is a classic wedding entertainment option that provides fun for all ages. With a variety of props and backdrops, guests can create quirky memories and take home personalised photo strips to remember the day.
  
• Games & Activities: Consider adding some light-hearted games to your reception. Lawn games like croquet, giant Jenga, or even a wedding quiz can be a fantastic way to entertain your guests. These activities work particularly well in the beautiful outdoor spaces at Manor By The Lake, giving your guests a chance to relax, socialise, and enjoy the scenery.
• Caricaturists or Magicians: For a unique and personalised touch, hire a caricaturist or a magician to wander among your guests, providing entertainment while creating lasting memories. A caricature drawing makes for a fun keepsake, and a magician can add a touch of mystery and wonder to your special day.

Your wedding entertainment should complement the overall theme and style of your day. If you’re going for a vintage or classical vibe, a live jazz band or a string quartet may be the perfect fit. For a modern and vibrant wedding, a DJ or contemporary live band might better suit the mood. At Manor By The Lake, the venue offers a variety of spaces, from the elegant Ballroom to the stunning lakeside setting, all of which provide a perfect backdrop for different styles of entertainment.

Timing is essential when it comes to entertainment. You don’t want your guests to be waiting around for too long between key events, so it’s important to have entertainment that fills any gaps in the schedule.

• Pre-Ceremony: A soloist or string quartet can provide a lovely soundtrack as guests arrive at your wedding venue. This sets the tone for the ceremony and provides a calming atmosphere.

• During the Reception: While your guests are mingling and enjoying drinks, consider a live band or acoustic musician to add ambience. If you’re having a sit-down meal, you might want to go for something more subtle, like a harpist or a jazz trio, so guests can still converse easily.

• After the Meal: Once it’s time for the party to begin, a DJ or live band will get your guests on the dancefloor. You can even consider a surprise element, like a firework display or a surprise guest performance, to really wow your guests.

While it’s tempting to go all out with the entertainment, it’s important to set a realistic budget. Prioritise what’s most important to you, whether it’s a live band, interactive games, or something more unique like a fire-dancer or aerial performer. Keep in mind that entertainment costs can add up, especially if you need to hire additional equipment or props. At Manor By The Lake, the team is experienced in helping couples navigate their wedding budgets, offering suggestions and recommendations to help you make the most of your entertainment.

Choosing the right wedding entertainment for your wedding at Manor By The Lake can take your celebration from memorable to extraordinary. By considering your guests’ preferences, matching entertainment to your wedding theme, and selecting the right timing, you’ll create a fun and engaging atmosphere that everyone will enjoy. From live bands to interactive games, the possibilities are endless, so make your entertainment choices as unique as your love story.