Planning your LGBTQ+ wedding reception? Whether you're going for glam, camp, cozy, or full-out dance party, your reception should reflect you. These 10 unique ideas will make your celebration unforgettable—for you and your guests!

1. Custom “Love Is Love” Cocktails

Design signature drinks inspired by your relationship—think "His & His," "Her & Hers," or “They-tini.” Add flair with edible glitter or rainbow rimming sugar.

2. Drag Queen (or King!) Emcee

Bring the party to life with a fabulous host. A drag performer can emcee, perform, and even officiate your ceremony for a bold, unforgettable experience.

3. Pronoun Pins & Stations

Normalize pronoun sharing with stylish pins available for guests upon arrival. Bonus points for a decorative table explaining the importance of inclusive language.

4. LGBTQ+ First Dance Playlist

Celebrate queer artists during your first dance or entire reception playlist—think Hayley Kiyoko, Sam Smith, Brandi Carlile, Lil Nas X, or Troye Sivan.

5. Rainbow Dessert Bars

Mini cupcakes, macarons, doughnuts, or a candy bar—all in rainbow hues. It’s sweet, Instagrammable, and totally on theme.

6. Queer History Photo Wall

Honor LGBTQ+ trailblazers and your personal journey with a display wall featuring love letters, engagement photos, and queer icons who paved the way.

7. Alternative Guest Book Ideas

Try a typewriter station, audio recordings, or a vintage phone booth where guests can leave you a voicemail to be saved forever.

8. Silent Disco After-Party

Keep the party going for night owls. A silent disco lets guests groove without waking up the hotel. Bonus: multiple channels so everyone gets their vibe.

9. Unity Ceremony with a Twist

Instead of candles or sand, consider planting a tree, blending cocktails, or mixing colors on a canvas for a fun, symbolic moment.

10. Surprise Flash Mob

Choreograph a dance with your wedding party (or invite your guests in advance) for a fun, high-energy surprise that will light up the dance floor.

Final Thought: Make It Yours

The best LGBTQ+ wedding receptions celebrate authenticity, love, and joy. Whatever ideas you choose, let your personalities shine—because love is love, and your celebration should be uniquely you.

📍Planning your big day? Don’t miss your chance to meet LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding professionals at a
 Rainbow Wedding Network Expo near you!