10 fun ways to involve guests in your wedding ceremony
A lot of people think the ceremony is the serious bit you’ve got to get through before the party starts. To that, I say, “Bore off!”A Pop-Up Celebrant ceremony IS the party starter!
And if you want your ceremony to be legendary for you and your guests, the secret is simple. Get everyone involved.
So, here are 10 interactive, fun and downright fabulous ideas to have your nearest and dearest play a part in your ceremony beyond asking them to read out a poem (which I love too but it never hurts to mix it up a bit).
1. Kick off with a sing-a-long
Growing up in a Catholic school, I used to love belting out a hymn. But, if I had the choice, you know I would have much preferred to be singing a Spice Girls classic instead! Imagine all your guests crooning along to a Beatles anthem, the theme tune to your favourite TV show or Insomnia by Faithless. Lyric sheets in hand, big grins all round. It’s karaoke meets ceremony. What’s not to love?!
2. A ceremony flashmob
This doesn’t have to be West End-level choreography (unless you’ve got a particularly jazzy relative)! But getting a handful of guests to suddenly burst into claps, singing or even a cheeky dance mid-ceremony is something you’ll never forget it and neither will your guests.
3. Paper aeroplane wishes
Give each guest a slip of paper to write their best wish or piece of advice. Halfway through the ceremony, get them to fold it into a plane and launch it your way. It’s playful, colourful and makes for gorgeous photos. Plus, you end up with a pile of heartfelt (and hilarious) keepsakes.
4. Shot unity
Each to their own but I’m not really one for sand-pouring.I’d much prefer to seal the deal with a toast! At a pivotal moment, you could ask every guest to raise a shot of your favourite drink, be that limoncello, tequila or a ginger and turmeric shot if you’d prefer. And you all down it together in a proper shared celebration!
5. Audience gameshow
Ceremony bingo. A quick-fire quiz about your relationship. A spin-the-wheel-of-love moment that decides a fun ritual. Yes, really. It keeps everyone on their toes, adds a big dollop of personality and lets me wear my sequinned Game Show Host blazer!
6. Mystery readers
Instead of traditional readings, get guests to submit one sentence about you both beforehand. Mix them up and read them out like a patchwork love story. It’s funny, surprising and sometimes tear-jerking. Nobody’s nodding off during this bit!
7. Guest “hype squad” entrance
Want to make a proper entrance? Nominate a group of mates or cousins as your hype squad. Picture pom-poms, cheering, whooping, or just chanting your names like you’re Beyonce about to step out on tour!
8. Pass the mic
Give your guests the floor – literally. Pass a wireless mic around for quick shout-outs like:
“Describe these newlyweds in one word.”
“What’s your favourite memory with them?
You’ll get everything from heart-melting sweetness to absolute chaos and obvs that’s the fun of it!
9. Group photo ceremony
Pause halfway through, turn to your guests and snap a giant group selfie, or get your photographer to capture everyone cheering. And you’ll treasure that photo forever!
10. Ceremony playlist vote
In the run-up to the big day, let your guests vote on which song should play for your entrance, exit or other key parts of the ceremony. Then, reveal the winner live to gasps, rapturous applause and proper Top of the Pops-energy!
Final thoughts
Your ceremony doesn’t need to be the bit you get through before the fun starts. By inviting your guests to join in with games, music, surprises and even shots, you’ll create a wedding ceremony that feels alive!
So go on. Ditch the boring and mix it up. Your guests will thank you for it!
