How to Enjoy Your Party


You didn’t trip walking down the aisle, you nailed those vows, and you managed to be in hair, makeup, and dress without causing major delays. Now’s the time for you and that brand-new hubby of yours to relax and enjoy yourselves at the reception, right? For many couples, unfortunately, it’s just the opposite: The reception can be extremely stressful, as you need to make sure you speak to everyone, smile for all those cameras, and tend to vendors. How to make the day truly yours? Read on for entertaining ideas.

“The day goes by so fast,” says Danielle Bobish, of Curtain Up Events in New York City. “I always tell my clients that it’s really important to take a moment to be together and look at their wedding.”

To that end, take a moment right before the cocktail hour to toast each other and capture the event. Sneak off to a private corner, glasses in hand, before descending on the crowd. Five minutes of alone time before the reception will invigorate and refresh you.

Once the reception begins, “hire” a bridesmaid or other trusted wedding member to pull you away from any long-winded conversations. You’re not being rude: Some loved ones will want you all to themselves, without realizing you need to greet another hundred or so guests. The hired hand can simply say that Mrs. So-and-So is dying to find out where you got your dress.

To keep your energy up, make sure you eat. This is harder than it sounds; not only are you going to be nervous, it’s hard to sit down for a meal when swamped with well-wishers. If you need to, grab a bite from the kitchen before the reception. If that’s impossible, carry around a plate and nibble while you mingle. This is especially important if you’re drinking champagne, or are planning to dance the night away as the ceremony continues.

On a related note, don’t drink too much. Not only will it exhaust you and affect the way you look in photographs, your memory of the day will be blurred. Lack of sleep, heat, and not eating sufficiently will make you more lightheaded than usual.

Finally, make sure you also plan a break during the reception. Once the party is in full swing, leave for a bit and take a breather. (If you’re changing outfits, this is a great time to add the break.) Always let someone know where you are, then disappear for few minutes. Take the time to reflect on all that’s happening.

Says Bobish, “Don’t forget to, every once in a while, say to each other, ‘Let’s remember this moment.’” After all, you only have one chance to celebrate your once-in-a-lifetime day.

-David Toussaint

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