As my sister’s newly-appointed maid of honor, I’ve been brainstorming possible solutions for avoiding the awkwardness that comes with strangers and wedding reception seating. Sure, some tables are easy to figure out: family goes with family, and high school and college friends stay together so they can catch up. More likely than not, some people will be scattered without many friends to talk to. Trust me, I’ve been there – going stag to a wedding isn’t the most exciting idea. You want everyone to have a great time, but what are they to do in the time between dinner and the dance floor?
Make sure you have something to help facilitate conversation! Small, optional party games are fantastic for helping guests get to know each other and break the ice without taking up much room on each table. Here are some of the ideas I’ve come up with.
1. Conversation Table Topics
This first idea came about when I was actually putting together my sister’s bridal registry (so always be on the lookout for idea inspiration where you wouldn’t expect it!) This conversation card idea is a great way for guests to get to know each other and provide excellent talking points. If you’re crafty, you can always personalize and DIY-it. Or, buy a Paisley Dog Press note card set and use those! Questions like, “What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen?” and “What would be your ideal life in 5, 10, and 15 years?” are sure to get some great discussions going.
2. Catchphrase
The party game Catchphrase made a big blip a few years ago, and was received with wide acclaim. It is one of my favorites! Unfortunately, it seems to have fallen out of popularity – so, why not revive it now as a great wedding party game? This is a great option for tables with kids and teenagers who might not be keen on the conversation cards. The game is fast-paced, fun, easy to pass around, and rounds are short- a perfect way to get people to interact around a table and keep the laughs coming.
3. Apples to Apples
Who doesn’t love when someone suggests playing Apples to Apples? With multiple versions, including junior and for kids, it’s an option that will include everyone.
4. Mad Libs
The old road-trip and summer camp standby is still one of the greatest and funniest party games. Each person can take turns around the table. Great for all ages and with tons of hilarious themes and variations ranging from Dance Mania Mad Libs, Adventure Time Mad Libs, Happily Ever After Mad Libs, and tons more. Pick the best for your wedding theme or pick different ones for each table!
5. Would You Rather
Here is another great small card game to have on your tables to spark conversation. Would You Rather is a classic game that, for 6 bucks a stack, is sure to lead to both hilarious and thought-provoking discussions among your wedding guests.
Again, these ideas are also meant to inspire you to come up with some options of your own. If you’re not a huge fan of the boxes these games come in, feel free to put them in something that fits the style of your decorations! There are countless ways to approach this issue, and there is definitely something out there that will seamlessly blend in with the theme and ambiance of the wedding while also helping your guests mingle with ease.
Morgan Gray is a writer with a fetish for stationery and a love for all things poetry. When her sister came to her with the news of her engagement and that she’d like her to be her maid of honor, the happiness and inspiration came instantaneously. She’s writing for us today sharing her personal experiences in the hopes of helping us all fill those wedding shoes.