Many guests probably dread your cocktail hour. Heck, you may even dread the cocktail hour for the sake of your guests! But it something that most likely needs to happen in between your ceremony and reception, and many times, can be a block of time that seems to drag on for many guests.
If all you have planned for cocktail hour is drinks, appetizers, and music playing, then your guests may get a little antsy. This is definitely the traditional thing to do, but for most guests, especially with kids, cocktail hours are boring and are a waste of time in their eyes.
So, the only solution left to do is to make it fun somehow! You may be wondering how cocktail hour can be fun (and no, I am not suggesting that someone starts a food fight). But the truth is, there are many ideas out there that many brides just never think about! So when it comes to planning your cocktail hour, keep some of these ideas in mind. Think of your guests, and saving their sanity.
1. Croquet
Image Source: weddbook.com
Looking for some fun lawn games? Croquet is a must have, among others (click here for more lawn game ideas)! This is a great way to kill time, and to present a classic game to your guests! Whether the guests are 25 or 75, this timeless yard game should definitely be included if you are considering an outdoor wedding!
2. Tic Tac Toe
Image Source: etsy.com
Image Source: 4.bp.blogspot.com
Tic Tac Toe is great because it is a mindless game that does not take a lot of thinking or physical skill! For the cozy, indoor winter weddings, you can have smaller games placed on tables or included at the tables your guests will be eating dinner at. For a summery, outdoor wedding, having a life size lawn Tic Tac Toe is a creative option that not only the adults will love, but the kids will love as well! When thinking of games for the cocktail hour, this definitely needs to be one on your list!
3. Cornhole
Image Source: twofootcreative.com
Cornhole is yet another classic lawn game that is fun to play in pairs! While definitely a more team oriented game, it is one that will keep people interacting with one another and can even introduce new friends. And as the bride and groom, do not be afraid to get down and get dirty! Enjoy playing Cornhole with your guests at some point during the night and have fun!
4. I Spy Game
Image Source: bestgiftidea.net
This is great for indoor winter weddings, but can also be fun and adventurous for outdoor weddings as well. You can have it like a checklist or almost like Bingo, and every time they spy something, they mark it off. Or you could make it like the classic game, and just have items everywhere for people to search for. Either way, this will definitely help parents keep the little ones occupied during this elongated period of time.
5. Coloring
Image Source: somethingturquoise.com
Adult coloring books. Yes, those have totally become a thing! If you are having a casual, kicked back type wedding, then why not have coloring? Have some fun wedding themed coloring pages for the little ones, along with a wide range of crayons. And then have some more intricate coloring pages for the adults with a wide range of colored pencils. You might be surprised at just how many adults love the adult coloring idea!
6. Yard Yahtzee
Image Source: etsy.com
Why not bring this classic family game to life? You can either create your own dice if you are the crafty type, or order your own by clicking here. The great thing about giant dice is that you can play more than just Yahtzee if desired! You can play Snake Eyes, Farkle, or Bunco as well. These creative dice should definitely be on your list of must haves for ways to pass time at the cocktail hour.
7. Limbo
Image Source: sachamiller.co.uk
While this may be the typical addition to the dance portion of the wedding, it can also be a great addition to the cocktail hour! If you are having an outdoor reception, this definitely gives your reception a chill and fun vibe, allowing guests to let loose and maybe crack a few backs along the way. If you are having an indoor wedding, maybe have the limbo part in a separate part of the room, rather than the dance floor. This way your guests are not confused on whether not it is time to dance. Limbo is definitely a crowd pleaser, both adult and children alike! So definitely keep this in mind.
8. S’mores!
Image Source: southernweddings.com
What better way to close in a cocktail hour than with a sweet treat? S’mores are a great summer campfire option for your dreamy outdoor reception, or are the perfect toasty treat for any winter wonderland wedding! You can have a S’mores bar, a campfire, or provide this sweet treat with an indoor fireplace. Your guests will love having a little extra something in their stomach, and it will get them excited for the reception to come!
