10 fun wedding reception games

A good game gets guests talking and gives the couple a moment to enjoy. Here are ten wedding games that work, with tips for the MC, best man or maid of honour.

1. Photo bingo with pictures of the couple

Every guest gets a bingo card with photos: the couple as babies, their first holiday, the hen and stag do. The photos are drawn one by one on the TV or projector. Every photo brings out a story, and everyone plays, from kids to grandparents. With PhotoBingo you make the cards and the draw screen in fifteen minutes.

2. The shoe game

The couple sit back to back, each holding one of their own shoes and one of their partner’s. The MC asks questions like “Who’s the better cook?” and they raise the shoe of whoever it applies to. Quick, funny and no preparation needed.

3. How well do you know the couple?

A quiz about the couple: where they met, their first concert, their favourite holiday. Let guests play per table. Tip: ask the couple for the answers in advance.

4. Table challenges

Put an envelope with challenges on every table: take a photo with the couple, write a short poem, sing the first verse of their song. The table that completes the most challenges wins.

5. Guestbook riddle

Guests write a memory with the couple on a card, without their name. Read a few out during dinner and let the couple guess who wrote them.

6. Guess the baby

Collect baby photos of guests and pin them on a board. Who can name the most? You can combine this with photo bingo: just put the baby photos on the bingo cards.

7. The anniversary dance

All married couples dance. The DJ calls out numbers of years (“married less than 5 years, sit down”) until the longest-married couple is left. A lovely moment to celebrate them.

8. Photo scavenger hunt

Give each table a list of photos to take: someone crying with happiness, the cake, a guest in a silly pose. The photos go to the couple afterwards.

9. Wishes for the years ahead

Guests write a wish or piece of advice on a card. The couple opens a few on every wedding anniversary. Not a competition, but a lovely keepsake.

10. Music quiz with their songs

Play short snippets of songs that matter to the couple. Which table recognises them first? A great warm-up for the party.

Tips for the MC

• Pick two or three games, not ten: 20 to 40 minutes between dinner and the party is plenty.
• Make sure everyone can join in, including guests who know the couple less well.
• Test the TV or projector beforehand if you play a game on screen.
• Have small prizes ready: a bottle of wine, chocolates, a homemade medal.