Illustrator: Claire Willcocks, Photo: Sam Box Photography

1. Live Wedding Illustrators

A live illustrator paints or sketches your guests throughout the day, creating personalised keepsakes they can take home.

This works beautifully for laid back luxury weddings because it feels elegant, interactive and intimate without being over-the-top.

Perfect for:

• Drinks receptions
• Outdoor weddings
• Stylish, editorial-inspired weddings

Try: Ink and Lace Illustrated, Claire Willcocks

The Kicks Band, Photo: Sam Box Photography

2. Acoustic Musicians

Rather than silence during your drinks or wedding breakfast, create atmosphere with acoustic musicians playing relaxed background music.

Think:

• Acoustic guitarists
• Roaming saxophonists
• Jazz duos
• Piano vocalists

This creates a luxurious but relaxed feel without dominating conversation.

Try: The IOUs, The Professors, Aimee Jay Saxophonist

3. Roaming Magician

Close-up magicians work brilliantly during quieter parts of the day, especially while photographs are happening.

The best wedding magicians feel subtle, sophisticated and genuinely impressive – not cheesy.

Ideal for:

• Drinks receptions
• Turning room flips into entertainment
• Breaking the ice between guests

Singing Surprise, Photography by Chantel

4. Surprise Singing Waiters

If you want a high-energy moment your guests won’t expect, singing waiters always create a reaction.

Done well, this can completely lift the atmosphere and become one of the most memorable moments of the day.

Top tip:
Keep it as a genuine surprise for maximum impact.

Try: Singing Surprise

Mini Golf 2U, The Barn at Cott Farm

5. Crazy Golf

Outdoor garden games and activities can completely transform the energy, especially for couples who want a more social alternative to dancing.

It creates movement, interaction and fun without needing everyone on the dance floor.

Best for:

• Outdoor weddings
• Mixed-aged guest lists
• Evening-only guests

Try: MiniGolf2U

Choosing the Right Wedding Entertainment

The best wedding entertainment doesn’t just fill time, it shapes the atmosphere of your day.

When choosing entertainment, think about:

• Your guest personalities
• Your venue style
• The flow of the day
• Whether you want relaxed energy or high-energy interaction

A laid back luxury wedding is all about creating experiences that feel effortless, personal and memorable.

What is the best alternative wedding entertainment?

Silent discos, live illustrators and acoustic music are some of the most popular modern alternatives to traditional wedding entertainment.

How many options should I choose for entertainment?

Don’t overdo your wedding entertainment and risk overwhelm! If you’re having band or disco in the evening, we recommend picking just one other afternoon entertainment option that you love. You don’t want to spend your best day ever feeling pulled from one thing to the next without having time to enjoy soaking up the atmosphere.

Is unusual wedding entertainment worth it?

Absolutely! Unique entertainment often becomes the part guests remember most, especially when it reflects your personality as a couple.