I always enjoy it when the couple actually joins their guests for part of the pre-drinks. It is such a relaxed, social moment — everyone mingles, the nerves melt away, and group photos work beautifully while the light is still soft and everybody is in one place.
At some point, of course, you will slip away with me for your couple shoot, which means your guests need something to do while you are gone. A little planning here goes a long way. Some ideas that work well:
- Start the music early. Ask your DJ to play through the pre-drinks — something like Café del Mar sets the tone perfectly.
- Wedding games. Have a look at weddinggames.co.za for ideas.
- A photo booth. Hire a professional one or build your own, with or without props — more on that on my wedding extras page.
- A winery touch. Marrying on a wine farm? Get the winemaker in for a quick tasting or cellar talk.
- A caricature or sketch artist. A lovely souvenir for guests to take home.
- Drumming. We had it at our own wedding and it was an absolute highlight.
- Live music. A trio or a small band lifts the whole atmosphere.
- Canvas painting or a signing board instead of the usual guestbook.
Keep them happy and the photos flow
Entertained guests are relaxed guests, and relaxed guests photograph beautifully when you return from your couple shoot. Plan a little something and your pre-drinks becomes one of the warmest parts of the day. For more ideas, browse my wedding extras and the rest of my wedding tips.
