While weddings and receptions are special days for the bride & groom, sometimes bringing together all the people you care about from every group in your life can cause some initial shyness and awkwardness at the ceremony and reception, especially when the guests of honor are not present. On your wedding day, you shouldn't be worried about whether your guests are enjoying themselves, or how individuals are "breaking the ice," especially those who are meeting for the first time. This article will share a few tips on how to get your guests to mingle, so you don't have to worry about it on your wedding day.

Interactive Food Display

Guests at any event are more likely to meet and greet each other after they have had something to eat. Food calms nerves and puts your guests in the mood to start talking with each other. Feed your guests as soon as possible and get them talking with these fun food features:

•           Live Sushi Station, where a sushi chef creates made-to-order rolls
•           Make-Your-Own Juice Bar, with just a few blenders and a myriad of fruit & veggie choices
•           Nacho Stand, with or without an attendant, you can include all the toppings you could want
•           Dessert, make your own ice cream sandwich or build your own cupcake bar

Games

Reception games are great icebreakers for your guests. Here are two popular games you can set up at your reception to get your guests chatting.

Corn Hole

Originally a fourteenth century game, Corn Hole has made its encore appearance in the past few years at sports tailgates, and is now a popular wedding reception game. This enjoyable beanbag toss is an inexpensive (and quirky unexpected) addition to your wedding day.

Checkers

Life-size checkers can be rented and delivered to your party or you can even set up a DIY set. This is another great way to surprise your guests with something they wouldn't expect to see at a wedding or reception. It can be a conversation piece and a challenge to your guests to set up and start a game. After dinner, guests can return and continue to play throughout the reception – great for those who aren't dancers.

Announcements and Entertainment

The most effective person to keep your guests entertained will be your DJ. Your DJ can remind guests of the evening's schedule and what is coming next. The more your DJ makes his or herself known, and keeps the crowd informed, the more everyone will feel part of a group, and more willing to strike up a conversation with another partygoer. Many DJ companies now even offer icebreaker options and interactive games as a bonus to their portfolios.

Other Conversation Starters

Other out-of-the-box ways to start conversations between your guests? Create a hashtag for your wedding and then encourage your guests to post Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook photos. Host a signature drink and write a cute description to represent you and your soon-to-be-spouse's personalities. Set up a photo booth with props and request that your guests leave one set of photos with you. Or order stick-on tattoos personalized for your wedding.

Whatever you decide to do, rest assured that there are many fun (and non-embarrassing) ways to get your guests to mingle. And remember, don't worry about them, because everyone is gathered to celebrate you – and that's a great conversation starter!