After you’ve exchanged rings, and sealed the deal with a first kiss, it’s time to party! The guests have been well fed, perhaps with a cocktail (or two) and are ready to cut loose. At this point in the evening, there are many ways to get everyone in a festive mood.
For a little inspiration, we have pulled some of our favorite reception photos from recent weddings. There is a little something for everyone, including a high-energy live band, spontaneous breakdancing, and a grand sparkler exit. So let’s get this party started!
At Alison and Kevin’s wedding (above) at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, the couple surprised their guests with an all-out performance. Backed by a full band, their show-stopping routine featured go-go dancers, dramatic lighting, and bursts of confetti. Within seconds, the party came alive, and guests got on their feet to join the excitement. In moments like this, we love being in the middle of the action, capturing all the energy in the room.
We also love when couples throw a few personal twists into their day. For example, the photo above shows our own staff photographer, Billy, during his reception at the Ultimate Skybox in Downtown San Diego. Paying homage to his Greek roots, Billy performed a traditional Zeibekiko dance for guests, and finished with a shot of ouzo. Adding special moments like this keeps the reception festive, while also paying homage to centuries of family tradition. Opa!
While covering the must-have photos, we also like to explore creative angles and views of the reception area. For example, we captured the photo above by hiking to the roof of the O’Donnell House in Palm Springs, CA. From that vantage point, we were able to achieve this aerial shot of guests at Chelsey and John’s wedding, as they enjoyed the beautiful evening and dinner.
Planning to have a photo booth during your reception? Borrow a few props and get your groove on! You just can’t beat a dance floor populated with captain hats, oversized glasses and fake mustaches, like at Courtney and Andrew’s New Year’s Eve wedding at Sunset Temple.
We wanted to show the DJs some love too! To capture this photo from Jennifer and Jason’s wedding at Hotel del Coronado (see above), we used an experimental technique of slowing down our shutter speed and dragging the image. This allowed the natural light of the equipment and market lighting to take on new form, creating a cool frame around this mixmaster.
Working up a sweat from all those fresh dance moves? Cool off with a jump in the pool! When we saw these fellas at Arianne and Julien’s wedding inching towards the water for an epic set of cannonballs (see above), our photographers were quick on their toes to freeze the action.
Hut, hut…hike! Get a little creative with your garter toss and throw something the guys will want to catch! At Darlene and Jeremy’s wedding at Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa, the groom had fun putting a modern spin on this old tradition. By wrapping the garter around a football (go Chargers!), the groom prepared to hike the ball to this buddies for an epic garter catch showdown.
End the night on a high-note…literally! As Ashley and Tyler celebrated their reception at Park Hyatt Aviara, a few close friends swept Tyler off his feet for a fun surprise Hora towards the end of the night. The Hora dance, originating from the Balkans, comes from the words “round (dance)” and “celebration,” and is usually spontaneously prompted by guests. Because we had positioned ourselves in the middle of the excitement, we were able to capture this up-close angle, including Tyler’s priceless reaction.
Looking to get your own party started? Click here for more unforgettable moments and reception ideas :)
