40+ Original Wedding Entertainment Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration
Looking for more than music and a dance floor? Original wedding entertainment gives your guests something to watch, experience and talk about long after the celebration. Think live music, interactive performances, a photo booth, creative children's activities or a glitter bar where guests can add a little sparkle to their look.
In this guide, you'll find more than 40 wedding entertainment ideas for different styles, moments and budgets. From relaxed entertainment during the drinks reception to surprises for the evening party and activities that bring different generations together, discover options that suit your wedding and your guests.
Which wedding entertainment suits your celebration?
The best entertainment for your wedding suits the atmosphere, your guests and the time of day. During the drinks reception, activities that guests can join whenever they like are a practical choice. For the evening, consider music, a standout performance or a festive glitter bar.
Here are some ideas by category:
Interactive entertainment: a photo booth, close-up magician, live illustrator or personalised wedding quiz. Ideal for involving your guests and getting conversations started.
Creative entertainment: a glitter bar, face gems, festival face art or custom glitter tattoos. Options range from subtle details for an elegant wedding to colourful looks for a festival-style celebration.
Music and performances: an acoustic duo during the drinks reception, a singer during dinner or a DJ with a saxophonist for the evening party.
Outdoor entertainment: giant garden games, a treasure hunt or a relaxed games corner. A lovely fit for a garden wedding, provided you have a wet-weather alternative.
Children's entertainment: face painting, glitter tattoos, crafts or supervised games. Choose activities that suit the children's ages.
Personal keepsakes: an audio guest book, video messages or illustrated guest portraits. Entertainment that leaves you with something to enjoy after the wedding.
Choose a few activities that work well together rather than filling every moment. This leaves time for catching up, eating and dancing too.
Interactive wedding entertainment: get your guests involved
With interactive wedding entertainment, your guests become part of the experience. They take photos, play games together or enjoy a surprise from a performer. These ideas work particularly well when guests can move around freely, such as during the drinks reception or evening party.
A photo booth with a personalised backdrop
A photo booth lets guests take their own pictures, whether they pose alone or squeeze in with a whole group of friends. Match the backdrop and props to your wedding: flowers and soft colours for a romantic feel, or disco details for a lively party.
Place the booth somewhere visible without blocking a walkway. Would you also like a physical guest book? Let guests print an extra photo and write a message beside it.
A close-up magician mingling with guests
A close-up magician performs short tricks for small groups. Guests do not all have to stop talking or gather in one place at the same time. This makes magic a good option for the drinks reception or the gaps between dinner courses.
Coordinate the performance with your wedding coordinator and caterer so it does not overlap with speeches or food service.
A live illustrator or caricaturist
A live illustrator draws your guests during the wedding. Choose elegant fashion portraits, small watercolours or playful caricatures. Watching the artist at work is part of the entertainment, and the finished portrait becomes a personal keepsake.
Ask how many guests the artist can draw within the booked time. At a larger wedding, this will determine whether everyone can have a turn.
A personalised wedding quiz
A quiz about the two of you gives guests a playful way to get to know one another. Mix accessible questions with photos, music clips and amusing facts. Mixed teams encourage guests from different friendship groups to work together.
Keep the quiz short and avoid questions that only your closest family could answer. That way, everyone can enjoy taking part.
Giant garden games for an outdoor wedding
A games area with giant tumbling blocks, ring toss or beanbag games suits a relaxed garden or festival wedding. Guests can join in whenever they like without waiting for a set start time.
Choose a level surface away from the dining tables. Arrange a covered alternative if the activities depend on dry weather.
An audio guest book with personal messages
An audio guest book lets guests record a wish, memory or piece of advice. It offers a different kind of keepsake from a written guest book: you preserve their voices and laughter too.
Place the phone or recording device in a quiet spot away from the speakers. Simple instructions and a prompt such as “What do you wish for us ten years from now?” help guests get started.
Creative wedding entertainment: glitter bars, face gems and body art
Creative wedding entertainment gives guests a festive look that suits your celebration. Think subtle glitter, sparkling face gems or hand-painted flowers. This is not just for children: adults can choose an elegant detail or a bold festival-inspired design too.
A glitter bar at your wedding
At a glitter bar, guests can have glitter applied to areas such as their temples, cheekbones or shoulders. From a small golden accent to a vibrant combination of colours, everyone chooses what works with their outfit.
A glitter bar suits a festival wedding as well as an elegant evening celebration. Gold, silver or soft shades can complement your styling. Consider opening the glitter bar at the start of the evening so guests can head to the dance floor with their new look.
Face gems for an elegant party look
Face gems are decorative stones applied to the face by an artist. A few subtle gems around the eyes create a different effect from a more elaborate design with glitter and colour.
This wedding entertainment option suits guests who want something special without having their whole face painted. Match colours and designs to the occasion: silver and white for a classic look, for example, or iridescent gems for a playful finish.
Festival face art with flowers and delicate details
Festival face art features painted designs around the eyes, across the face or along the neck. Think small flowers, flowing lines, butterflies or stars, with the option to add glitter and face gems.
For a romantic wedding, choose delicate white flowers or soft colours. A bohemian or festival wedding can work beautifully with more colourful designs. Guests can choose individual looks while a shared colour palette brings everything together.
Custom glitter tattoos
Custom glitter tattoos make your entertainment personal to your wedding. Consider your initials, a simple wedding monogram or a symbol featured on your invitations.
A glitter tattoo is applied using skin adhesive and glitter, for example on an arm or wrist. This allows guests who prefer not to wear anything on their face to join in too. Discuss the design in advance: clear shapes without too many tiny details work best.
Body art for arms, shoulders or the décolletage
Body art does not have to mean a full body painting. A hand-painted flower on a shoulder, an elegant design on a forearm or a delicate detail along the décolletage can create a striking effect.
It is a lovely option for guests who want to complement their outfit without having their face painted. Allow for the size and level of detail when planning: an elaborate design takes longer than a small accent.
Putting together a glam bar for your guests
A glam bar combines options such as glitter, face gems and painted details. One guest might choose a subtle shimmer, while another opts for a full festival-inspired look.
Based in Lelystad, Mia's Magic provides creative wedding entertainment including glitter bars, face gems, face art and glitter tattoos. Discuss your guest numbers, available time and favourite style in advance so the service can be tailored to your celebration.
Music and performances for your wedding
Music shapes much of the atmosphere at a wedding. An acoustic performance creates a different mood from a party band or a DJ with live musicians. Choose not just a musical style, but also the moment when the performer will have the most impact.
An acoustic duo during the drinks reception
A singer accompanied by guitar or piano is a lovely fit for a relaxed welcome. Live music creates atmosphere while guests greet one another, enjoy a drink and catch up.
Discuss the volume and repertoire in advance. During the drinks reception, guests should be able to hear each other comfortably.
Strings for a romantic atmosphere
A string duo or quartet can give your ceremony or reception an elegant feel. Alongside classical music, ask about arrangements of modern songs that mean something to you.
Coordinate key moments, such as the entrance and the walk back down the aisle after the ceremony, beforehand so everyone knows when each piece should begin.
A live singer or pianist during dinner
A singer or pianist can provide gentle background music while guests eat. A meaningful song between courses can also create a special moment for everyone to listen.
Distinguish between background music and a performance you would like guests to focus on. Coordinate with the caterer and wedding coordinator so music and speeches do not interrupt one another.
A party band for a lively evening
A live band suits a wedding where dancing is a big part of the celebration. Choose a band with a repertoire your guests will enjoy, whether that is soul, pop, disco, rock or a mix of familiar favourites.
Ask how long each set lasts and what happens during the breaks. Agreeing on music between sets helps the evening flow smoothly.
A wedding DJ with a personal playlist
A wedding DJ can mix different styles and respond to what is happening on the dance floor. This is useful when your guests span different generations and musical tastes.
Share a short list of favourite songs and tracks you would rather not hear. Discuss the first dance, requests and how you would like the evening to end.
A DJ with a saxophonist or percussionist
A DJ with a live saxophonist or percussionist combines a continuous music mix with the energy of a live performance. The musician can join in at agreed moments, such as once the dance floor has filled up.
This combination suits a lively evening celebration or festival wedding. Coordinate the live sets and technical requirements with the performers and venue.
A silent disco for something a little different
At a silent disco, guests listen to music through wireless headphones. Multiple channels let them choose between different styles while sharing the same dance floor.
It can be a playful way to end the evening. Check with the venue first: even without loudspeakers, singing and chatting guests will still make noise.
For any musical performance, discuss space, power, setup time and sound restrictions. This ensures your entertainment suits both your taste and the venue's practical requirements.
Wedding entertainment during the drinks reception and dinner
During the drinks reception and dinner, entertainment works best when there is still space to talk and eat. Choose activities guests can join freely, or schedule one short performance between courses. These ideas add something special to the quieter moments of your wedding.
A cocktail bar with your own signature drink
Ask a bartender to create a cocktail that feels like you, using your favourite flavours or a name inspired by how you met. Preparing and garnishing the drinks becomes part of the experience.
Offer an alcohol-free version so everyone can join in. A small menu with a few choices helps keep queues at the bar manageable.
Live cooking as a culinary experience
With live cooking, guests watch their food being prepared. Think of a chef rolling sushi, making fresh pasta or putting the finishing touches on miniature desserts. The food itself becomes part of your wedding entertainment.
Coordinate this with the caterer and venue. A cooking station needs enough workspace and should be positioned so queues do not block access.
A roaming poet writing personal poems
A poet chats briefly with guests and writes a personal poem inspired by the conversation. It could reflect their relationship with you, a favourite memory or a wish for your future.
This suits an intimate or creative wedding. Guests receive a keepsake and can decide for themselves whether to take part.
A surprise performance by singing waiters
Singing waiters initially appear to be part of the waiting staff before unexpectedly breaking into a performance. This creates a surprise moment during dinner.
Plan the act with your caterer and wedding coordinator. Choose a moment when food is not being served and allow for any speeches already scheduled.
Conversation cards for the tables
Personalised conversation cards give tablemates an easy way to get to know one another. Try questions such as “How do you know the couple?” or “Where should they travel together next?”
This is an accessible idea for a smaller entertainment budget. Keep the questions light-hearted and let guests choose which ones to answer.
A guided tasting experience
A short chocolate, cheese, tea or coffee tasting gives guests something to discover together. A specialist introduces the flavours before everyone tastes and compares them.
Choose a tasting that complements your menu and ask about dietary requirements and allergies in advance. A short tasting after dinner can also help bridge the gap before the evening party.
Wedding entertainment for the evening party
Evening entertainment can be a little bolder. Alongside a DJ, band or glitter bar, consider a short show, a group activity or a personal surprise. Schedule these moments thoughtfully so the dance floor is not constantly interrupted.
A dance performance that gets the party started
A short dance performance can open the evening party or lead guests from dinner to the dance floor. Think swing, salsa or a style that suits your favourite music.
Ask the dancers to invite guests to join them afterwards. Rather than simply watching a show, everyone gets a chance to help start the party.
A mini dance workshop for guests
A short dance workshop teaches guests a few simple steps they can use straight away. It can be a fun icebreaker for people who would not usually be first onto the dance floor.
Choose an accessible dance and keep participation optional. A few repeatable moves work better than a complicated routine.
An LED show for a visual highlight
In an LED show, a performer creates light patterns using illuminated props such as hoops or poi. It makes a striking impression in a darkened space and can suit a modern or festival-style wedding.
Discuss performance space, lighting and sightlines in advance. The show works best when guests can see clearly and the performer has plenty of room.
Karaoke with favourite duets
A karaoke session gives guests the chance to sing their favourite songs together. Duets and familiar singalongs make it easier to take the microphone alongside a friend, relative or partner.
Make it a defined part of the evening, perhaps in a separate area or as a short session. This leaves room for guests who would rather dance or chat.
A personal surprise performance
A friend who sings, a relative who plays an instrument or a group preparing an act together can bring real meaning to your entertainment. It does not have to be a professional show to feel right for your wedding.
Ask your wedding coordinator to collect and coordinate these contributions beforehand. This avoids several lengthy performances in a row and keeps the surprise enjoyable for the couple.
Video messages from loved ones
A short compilation of video messages can include people who cannot attend in person. You could combine their wishes with a few photographs or memories from your time together.
Show the video before the dancing begins or during a natural break. Test the picture and sound in advance and keep the compilation brief so it feels personal without bringing the party to a lengthy halt.
Choose one or two extra evening highlights rather than a programme full of interruptions. A photo booth or glam bar can remain open alongside the party for guests who want to try something different between dances.
Children's entertainment at your wedding
Well-chosen children's entertainment gives younger guests something enjoyable to do during the wedding. Consider their ages, the number of children and the available space. Balance active moments with somewhere quiet to play or take a break.
Face painting transforms children into favourite animals, fairytale characters or colourful superheroes. Small flowers, butterflies and festive designs also work beautifully at a wedding.
Schedule face painting during the drinks reception or after the meal, for example. Discuss the number of children and the available time beforehand so the designs can be planned accordingly.
A craft table with a gift for the couple
Let children decorate a card, create a shared picture or design their own page for the guest book. They can enjoy being creative while making something personal for you.
Choose age-appropriate materials that keep mess to a minimum. Provide supervision when scissors are used, and keep paint and glue away from wedding outfits.
A treasure hunt around the venue
A treasure hunt gives children a playful reason to explore. They could look for hidden hearts, collect pictures or complete simple challenges.
Agree with the venue which areas are suitable and have an adult accompany the children. Picture clues work better than written riddles for younger children.
A bubble show
A bubble performer creates giant bubbles and unusual shapes for children to watch. An interactive show may also let them try making a giant bubble themselves.
This is a lovely option for an outdoor wedding. Discuss wind, rain and the ground surface in advance to find a suitable performance area.
A puppet show or storytelling performance
A puppet show or interactive storyteller can provide a welcome quieter moment. Children listen to a story and can respond, contribute ideas or play a small part.
Choose a performance that suits their ages. A quiet corner away from the music and waiting staff helps keep attention on the story.
A balloon artist making figures on request
A balloon artist creates animals, flowers and other shapes while children watch. Seeing each figure take shape is part of the entertainment, and the children can take their creation home afterwards.
Ask which ages the activity suits and agree who will clear away any balloon fragments. A different activity is often more practical for the very youngest guests.
A mini disco for younger guests
A short mini disco gives children their own party moment. Choose familiar songs and simple movements so they can join in without rehearsing anything.
Schedule it before the youngest guests become tired. A leader can alternate dancing with a game such as musical statues.
A building and board-game corner
A corner with building toys, puzzles and board games lets children choose what they want to do. This is helpful for children who prefer quiet play to joining a performance.
Select toys suitable for the youngest children attending and keep small pieces separate. Position the area where it is easy to supervise, but not directly beside the speakers.
Photo challenges for children
Give older children a short list of things to photograph: the wedding cake, something blue, a beautiful flower or an amusing detail. This lets them explore the wedding from their own perspective.
Use a simple camera and agree when photography is and is not appropriate. Ask children to get permission before taking close-up pictures of guests.
Entertainment is not automatically childcare. Agree who is responsible for supervision, accompanying children and staying in contact with parents. If you want parents to have their hands free for a longer period, arrange suitable childcare separately.
Which entertainment suits your wedding style?
Match your wedding entertainment to the atmosphere you want to create. These combinations can help you choose.
Festival wedding
Combine a glitter bar or festival face art with live music, food trucks and garden games. Guests can wander freely and choose which activities they join.
Classic wedding
Strings, a pianist and a live illustrator complement an elegant atmosphere. Subtle face gems or golden glitter accents give guests a festive look for the evening.
Bohemian garden wedding
Consider an acoustic duo, hand-painted flowers, a personal poet or a flower-arranging workshop. Keep the format relaxed and arrange a covered alternative.
Modern city wedding
A cocktail bar, stylish photo booth and DJ with a saxophonist suit a modern celebration. A short LED show can add a surprising highlight to the evening.
Intimate wedding
Choose personal attention with a shared tasting experience, illustrated guest portraits or a singer performing your favourite songs. One special activity can be enough.
Fantasy or fairytale wedding
A harpist, storyteller or actor in character brings your theme to life. Face gems and face art let guests choose their own subtle elven or celestial look.
How much does wedding entertainment cost?
Wedding entertainment costs depend on the activity, booking duration, number of performers and venue. A DIY games corner mainly requires materials and preparation; a professional act includes the performance, expertise and any necessary equipment. Always compare the total cost for your wedding rather than the hourly rate alone.
How much does a wedding glitter bar cost?
At Mia's Magic, the price of a wedding glitter bar depends on your preferred service, booking duration, venue and the number of artists needed. The minimum booking is two hours. For venues more than an hour's drive from Lelystad, a minimum booking of four hours applies.
Check Mia's Magic's current rates and request a personalised quote for your wedding. Ask for the total including VAT, travel and any parking charges, so you know exactly what to budget for.
What affects the price?
When requesting quotes, check the following:
Booking duration: is the quote for a single short performance, several sets or continuous entertainment?
Number of performers: one artist costs less than a team but can also serve fewer guests at once.
Materials and equipment: are lighting, sound, consumables and any photo prints included?
Personalisation: a custom design, wedding monogram or specially rehearsed song may require extra preparation.
Travel and parking: check whether these costs are already included in the quote.
Setup and pack-down: ask how much time is needed and whether there are additional charges.
As a private customer, ask for a total price including VAT. This allows you to compare different proposals fairly.
How can you keep wedding entertainment affordable?
Choose one professional activity you are genuinely excited about and, if you wish, complement it with simple options. For example, book a glitter bar at the start of the evening party and use conversation cards during dinner.
Match the booking duration to the time when guests can actually participate. Entertainment scheduled alongside speeches, dinner or the first dance may be used less than expected.
Reducing the booking time is not always the best saving. If many guests want a personal look, photograph or portrait, a longer booking or an extra artist can mean shorter queues and more people taking part.
How to choose wedding entertainment your guests will enjoy
Good wedding entertainment suits both your taste and the people you are inviting. Consider your guest list, the day's schedule and what your venue can accommodate. These steps will help you make a focused choice.
1. Decide what you want the entertainment to add
Would you like guests to get to know one another, take home something personal or join you on the dance floor? Decide on the goal before choosing the activity.
A close-up magician gets conversations started, an illustrator creates personal keepsakes and a band puts the focus on the party. A glitter bar combines an activity with a festive look guests can enjoy for the rest of the evening.
2. Consider different types of guests
Think beyond age to your guests' interests and how comfortable they are in the spotlight. Some will jump at the chance to sing karaoke; others would rather choose a quiet moment at a photo booth.
Keep participation optional. Combining active entertainment with a quiet place to talk gives guests more choice.
3. Choose a logical point in the schedule
Plan activities guests join individually for times when they can move around freely. The drinks reception and the start of the evening party often work well.
A performance that needs everyone's attention deserves its own clear slot. Ask your wedding coordinator to arrange this with the caterer, photographer and other suppliers.
4. Match capacity to the number of participants
Many guests can watch a show at the same time. At a glitter bar, portrait station or photo booth, guests take turns. Ask how many people can participate within the booked time.
Discuss whether you expect everyone to join in or only part of your guest list. This estimate helps determine the booking duration and number of artists required.
5. Check space and accessibility
Ask what the artist needs, such as a table, power, lighting, a changing room or a sheltered workspace. Check that guests can reach the activity easily, including anyone using a wheelchair or walking aid.
Planning an outdoor wedding? Agree in advance where the entertainment will take place if it rains, becomes windy or turns cold.
6. Look at examples from similar weddings
Ask for photographs, videos and reviews that relate to the atmosphere you want. An artist who suits a lively festival is not automatically the right choice for an intimate dinner, and vice versa.
For visual entertainment, examples help set clear expectations. Show the colours, designs or overall look you like and discuss what is achievable.
7. Put the arrangements in writing
Have the date, venue, times, service and total price confirmed. Agree what happens in the event of bad weather, illness or changes to the schedule.
Give the supplier a contact person for the wedding day. Practical questions can then go through your coordinator rather than interrupting your celebration.
Give your wedding a personal touch with Mia's Magic
Would you like to offer guests an experience that feels right for your wedding? With a glitter bar, elegant face gems, festival face art or glitter tattoos featuring your initials, Mia's Magic creates a personal party look for each participant. From a subtle accent to a colourful design, guests choose what suits them.
Mia's Magic is based in Lelystad and mainly works at wedding venues within approximately 75 kilometres. Explore the options for creative entertainment at your wedding.
When you enquire, include your wedding date, venue, expected guest numbers and the entertainment you are interested in. We can then help you choose a suitable setup and prepare a personalised proposal.
Frequently asked questions about wedding entertainment
What wedding entertainment is fun for adults?
A glitter bar, live illustrator, close-up magician, photo booth or cocktail tasting gives adults something to enjoy together. For the evening party, consider a band, DJ or silent disco. Choose activities that suit your guests and keep participation optional.
What can guests do while the couple has their photographs taken?
A photo booth, garden games, audio guest book or roaming performer gives guests something to do while they wait. Choose activities without a fixed start time so everyone can join at their own pace. Provide plenty of seating and something to drink too.
How far in advance should you book wedding entertainment?
Ask about availability as soon as your wedding date and venue are confirmed. There is no single booking timeframe that applies to every performer. If you want a particular act or a custom design, get in touch early to allow time for planning and preparation.
Is a glitter bar suitable for an elegant wedding?
Yes. A glitter bar does not have to be bold or colourful. Small glitter accents, subtle face gems and delicate painted details can complement an elegant wedding style. Discuss the colour palette beforehand and look at examples of the finish you would like.
Can you combine wedding entertainment for children and adults?
Yes, for example with a photo booth, garden games or a glitter bar offering different designs. Consider your guests' ages and interests. Young children need appropriate additional activities and clearly agreed supervision; an entertainer is not automatically a babysitter.
How can you avoid queues at wedding entertainment activities?
Ask how many guests can take part within the booked time. For personalised activities such as face art or portrait drawing, the complexity determines the time needed per person. Adjust the booking duration, available options and, if necessary, the number of artists accordingly. Avoid scheduling the activity at the same time as dinner or important speeches.
Can wedding entertainment take place outdoors?
Many activities can take place outdoors if the conditions and venue are suitable. Discuss the shelter, ground surface, power and lighting required in advance. Always agree on an alternative in case of bad weather.
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