We love data. We love weddings. Put those together, and that’s why this statistic alone deserved its own blog post:

“In a recent report from TheKnot, couples in 2024 said that “guest experience” was the #1 most important factor of their wedding. 67% said staying within budget was most critical.”

Let’s find a way to do both! Because guests will always remember how you made them FEEL. Guest experience was a top priority for Morgan and Jacob’s wedding and you’ll see why!

Here are 16 ways they thoughtfully enhanced their wedding guest experience:

They booked a mechanical bull for entertainment!
They had a tattoo booth available for guests, wedding party, and a special time for them to get tattoos as well!
They brought in charcuterie apps to guests felt taken care of during social hour. The best man also made QUITE the entrance through the tent during the grand entrance. Entertaining for sure.
They wanted their meal served, with cloth napkins and chargers. Their attention to detail as Hitch and the catering team served the meal was outstanding. We also served the head table a special version of the wedding cake (an cookies and cream cheesecake, exclusive to the wedding party!) Hitch Studio also bussed the tables to guests could stay seating and keep their conversations flowing!
Speaking of flowing, they offered signature shots! They had the CUTEST favors — customized shot glasses with their monogram. We put 125 shot glasses with tickets on a shelf for guests to redeem at the bar for a complimentary shot! They had the choice between “his” signature shot (tequila with a lime) or “her” shot (lemondrop with a lemon).
They wanted to include their cats, but didn’t bring them to the ceremony site, so they printed their cats’ faces on sticks and got them out for the dance! Haha! So memorable!
We did a sparklers dusk as they entered their dance (such great photos!)
They put letters to each other into a time capsule, along with their favorite bottles of tequila and vodka, and also letters from their best man, maids of honor, and parents. It was a really special moment.
Another special moment during the ceremony was that Jacob surprised Morgan with her wedding ring bands! The look on her face during the ring exchange was priceless!
They also exchanged personally-written vows to each other during the ceremony (which brought on the tears!)
They ordered gluten free pizzas for late night snack to accommodate some guests with dietary restrictions.
Morgan knew that it would be really special to sing to her mom on her wedding day, so she recorded a version of her singing and danced with her MOM after the father/daughter dance!
They had me officiate (such an honor!) as a dear friend.
All their wedding signage and stationery matched. From the invitations and programs, to the welcome sign and signage at rehearsal, and shot shelf and bar signs, their wedding stationery felt cohesive and welcoming. There was also a sign with the schedule of events for the night, so guests knew what the hours for the mechanical bull, tattoos, and dancing would be.
There was a partial seating chart. Morgan and Jacob assigned seats to the front 11 tables at the reception and the other tables were perfectly left for a casual dining experience. It alleviated the stress for family and friends looking for open seats when half the reception knew where their seat was! We LOVED this! Less stress on the couple, more confidence for the guests.
She changed into a cocktail dress for the dance! It was a sign to the guests to get comfortable and enjoy themselves!
They chose to get married at Schade Vineyard and Winery — a wedding venue that offers tons of open-air spaces, vineyards to walk through, trees, shade, an on-site AirBnB, on-site bridal suites, yard games, and more. The venue itself was an experience.

Tips for Creating an Incredible Guest Experience at Your Wedding:

Welcome Them In Style

Whether it’s a welcome sign, a signature drink, or a simple smile from your greeters, the tone is set within the first five minutes. Let your guests know: they’re in for something special.

Guide Them with Ease

No one likes feeling confused. Create a smooth guest journey by using signs, printed programs, or a wedding website that tells them what to expect (and where to go next).

Entertain Thoughtfully

Keep energy flowing with music, activities, or interactive elements. This could be lawn games, a photo booth, a fun guestbook station, or even a signature drink experience. It’s about engaging your guests—not just entertaining them.

Feed Them with Heart

Food is more than a meal—it’s part of the memory. Consider including personal touches like family-favorite appetizers, a late-night snack bar, or dietary-friendly dessert options that make everyone feel seen.

Make It Personal

Add your love story into the details—custom vows, table names that reflect your journey, or a memory table to honor loved ones. These are the touches guests will talk about long after the last dance.

Leave Room for Delight

Surprises—like a champagne toast, live entertainment, or a creative sendoff—add that extra sparkle. It doesn’t have to be big. It just has to feel intentional.

Please reach out and let Hitch Studio help you create unforgettable guest experiences at your wedding! It’s what we LOVE to do!