Masquerade Wedding Reception: Guide To Planning Yours

Planning a masquerade wedding reception? There's a lot to consider, from the dress code to the decorations. Here's a quick guide to help you get started. First, decide on a theme and colour scheme for your wedding and choose your mask accordingly. Be sure to let your guests know about the theme in advance so they can find the perfect mask too. You may also want to provide extra masks for those who forget to bring one. Next, think about your venue. A masquerade wedding calls for a grand space with high ceilings and unique features such as chandeliers and ornate moulding. When it comes to decorations, go for moody colours like deep plum, burgundy and navy, and don't forget to incorporate masks into your centrepieces and table settings. For entertainment, you could hire a live band or DJ to play a mix of classical and modern music. And don't forget to provide some masquerade-inspired snacks and drinks, such as finger foods and dark-coloured cocktails. Finally, add some personal touches like a masquerade-themed photo booth and party favours for your guests. With a bit of planning, you can create a memorable and elegant masquerade wedding reception that your guests will love.

Invites: Include the theme and dress code on your invitations, and consider adding a printed mask

When it comes to invitations, it's important to give your guests all the information they need to prepare for your masquerade wedding. This includes letting them know about the theme and dress code. Here are some tips to ensure your guests are well-informed and excited about your upcoming nuptials:

Include the Theme and Dress Code:

Clearly outline the masquerade theme and dress code expectations on your invitations. Let your guests know if you are encouraging full costumes or just masks. Specify the level of formality, whether it's a formal black-tie affair or a more casual gathering. Use your wedding website to provide additional details and information about the theme and dress code. This will help your guests feel prepared and excited to participate in your special day.

Provide Resources and Ideas:

Use the "dress code" section of your wedding website to offer helpful resources for your guests. Include links to costume rental shops, online stores for purchasing masks, and other relevant information. The easier you can make it for your guests to find appropriate attire, the more likely they will be to embrace the theme enthusiastically.

Consider Adding a Printed Mask:

You can take your invitations to the next level by including a printed mask for your guests. This not only adds a fun and interactive element to your invitation suite but also ensures that each guest has access to a mask that fits the theme. If you're feeling creative, you can even make DIY invitations adorned with feathers and glitter, reflecting the playful spirit of your masquerade wedding.

Embellish with Moody Colours:

Masquerade weddings are often associated with moody and dramatic colours. Consider incorporating deep plums, dark greys, burgundies, or navy hues into your invitation design. This will set the tone and give your guests a hint of the elegant and sophisticated atmosphere they can expect at your reception.

Remember, the invitations are the first impression your guests will have of your wedding. By including the theme, dress code, and perhaps even a printed mask, you'll not only excite your guests about the upcoming celebration but also ensure they feel prepared to participate in your masquerade wedding reception.

Decor: Opt for moody colours, candles, and lanterns

The decor for a masquerade wedding reception should be refined and moody. Dark florals and deep, rich colours like burgundy, navy, black, dark grey, emerald, brown, and blue will highlight your tablescapes and create a mysterious atmosphere.

Candles are a must for a masquerade wedding. Integrate candles into your table settings, cake table, and even for your walk down the aisle. For an extra touch of glamour, gold lanterns or antique black lanterns are ideal. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even opt for mini lanterns with tea lights for your guests' seating cards.

Line hallways and walkways with antique lanterns to lend a moody glow that guides guests through dimly lit areas of the venue. At small, intimate weddings, lighting changes can also be used to clearly designate different event spaces and dictate the energy in each room.

When it comes to flowers, incorporate moody colours like red, deep plum, mauve, black, grey, and gold. You can also opt for something more unusual, like a mask surrounded by black flowers as your bridal bouquet. For centrepieces, use large statement flowers, beads, and lace to match the masquerade theme.

Food: Offer snacks and finger foods that are easy to eat while wearing a mask

When planning a masquerade wedding reception, it's important to consider the practicality of eating with a mask on. Here are some ideas for snacks and finger foods that are easy to eat while masquerading:

Skewers are a great option as they are easy to hold and don't require a lot of chewing. You could offer anything from chicken or beef teriyaki skewers to vegetable skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Another option is to provide mini sandwiches or small sliders, such as grilled cheese or BBQ pulled chicken. For a more elegant option, consider bruschetta or crostini with prosciutto and fig.

If you're looking for something more substantial, you could offer elegant hors d'oeuvres like oysters, prosciutto-wrapped melon, or toasted polenta bites. These options are heavier and will fill up your guests without requiring a lot of chewing or mess. You could also serve bacon-wrapped shrimp, which combines the rich flavors of the ocean with the savory goodness of bacon.

For vegetarian options, consider spinach and artichoke-stuffed mushrooms, mini caprese skewers, or cucumber tea sandwiches. These choices are delicate and refreshing, providing a light and sophisticated snack. You could also offer hummus and veggie cups or baked brie in phyllo dough for a creamy and indulgent option.

Lastly, don't forget about dessert! Mini chocolate chip cookies, fruit skewers, or yogurt-dipped strawberries are all easy-to-eat options that will satisfy your guests' sweet tooth.

Remember to choose options that are not too messy and can be easily managed while holding or wearing a mask. You may also want to provide a place for guests to comfortably store their masks while they eat.

Music: Create a masquerade-themed playlist or hire a string quartet

Music is an important element of your masquerade wedding, helping to set the mood and tone of the event. Whether you opt for a DJ, a string quartet, or a playlist, the right music will ensure your masquerade wedding is an unforgettable experience for your guests.

Masquerade-Themed Playlist

If you decide to create a playlist for your wedding, there are many directions you can take. Rousing classical music, such as a suspenseful waltz, can add to the theatricality of the event. You could also include EDM, hip hop, and other popular music to create a modern masquerade wedding vibe. Mozart is a good choice if you're looking for something simple and budget-friendly.

String Quartet

For a truly elegant and sophisticated touch, consider hiring a well-trained string quartet to perform at your wedding reception. The sound of live strings will add a sense of luxury and romance to your masquerade-themed celebration. Imagine waltzing with your partner for the first time as a married couple to the beautiful sound of strings—it's sure to be a magical moment.

Live Band

If you have the budget and your venue can accommodate a band, a live band can be a fantastic choice for your masquerade wedding. A live performance will add energy and excitement to your reception, and your guests will love dancing the night away to their favourite songs. Whether you choose a band that specialises in wedding performances or a local band that plays your favourite genre, a live band is sure to elevate your masquerade wedding.

Other Entertainment Ideas

To make your masquerade wedding truly memorable, you could also consider hiring other types of performers, such as aerial performers, magicians, fire dancers, or tarot card readers. Creating different interactive experiences for your guests will make your wedding unique and engaging.

Dress code: Choose a mask that complements your wedding attire, and encourage guests to do the same

Planning a masquerade wedding reception? Here are some ideas for choosing a mask that complements your wedding attire and encouraging your guests to do the same.

Choosing Your Mask

As the stars of the show, it's important that you, the couple, pick the perfect masks to complement your bridal attire. Consider the style and colour of your dress or suit when making your selection. Will you go for an all-white feather mask, a dark glitter-dusted mask, or something else entirely? Choosing your masks before embarking on the rest of your wedding planning is a wise choice, as it can help inform other stylistic choices, such as table decor.

Encouraging Guest Participation

To ensure your guests get into the spirit of things, it's a good idea to include details about the masquerade theme on your wedding invitations. Let your guests know whether you're encouraging full costumes or just masks, and whether the event is formal or more casual. You can also use your wedding website to provide more information about the theme and dress code, including links to costume rental shops and online stores where masks can be purchased. The easier you make it for your guests to get into costume, the more likely they are to participate.

Providing Masks for Guests

If you're concerned that some guests may forget to bring a mask, you can provide extra masks for those who need them. You could even choose masks for your guests yourself and give them out as wedding favours. This could be a fun way to ensure a cohesive look among your guests, and it will also save them the trouble of hunting for a mask that fits the theme.

Dress Code Ideas for Guests

When it comes to choosing a mask, your guests have a variety of options to consider. For a refined affair, guests should aim for elegant and sophisticated attire, with the mask as the main accessory. Suggestions for mask materials include lace, rhinestones, pearls, and feathers—sparkling masks are always a hit! For a Mardi Gras-themed wedding, oversized feather masks can be a fun choice for guests. If your wedding has a Halloween or vampire theme, guests can lean into the spooky aesthetic with their mask choices.

Frequently asked questions