Reception Entertainment

I think it depends on the vibe you are going for at the reception and which comedian you choose. If you and your SO love humor and want a reception that isn’t so serious, it could be a good idea. You may want to give them a list of topics or people that are “off-limits” if you fear they will offend anyone.

As a guest I would find it odd and unnecessary, but then I am someone who doesn't feel like receptions really need extra entertainment. Eating, drinking, socializing, celebrating, and dancing (if there's music) is plenty to keep me occupied. A comedian performing would hinder all of that. Also, humor is SO subjective that it seems unlikely you could find a comedian that would appeal to all, or even most, of your guests.

I agree with Maggie, a comedian is very niche entertainment. Not all comedians appeal to everyone. I'd much rather socialize, but that's me.

I think if you are going for a more casual vibe of dinner and socializing a comedian could be a fun add on. Just make sure you really like the comedian!

If you are having a more traditional reception music/dancing/cake cutting/etc then it seems super unnecessary. I would find that it takes away from the other events of the wedding and as a guest would wonder why that was chosen.

Also, if you are having a larger wedding (more than 75 people) it would be really tough to appeal to everyone and I would assume people would start talking and not pay attention during the comedian's set which would be distracting

I dont think a comedian should be at your wedding reception and if it was for a different occasion or event then yes that will be unique and good thing for entertainment

I think your guests will enjoy talking with each other and catching up during dinner. If you have a guest comedian who is not a member of family, etc, I think people will talk over this person. I've seen weddings on TV that have had cultural dancers during the reception but music drowns out talkers. I say focus the wedding on yourself, and if you like, add funny speeches from people who are important to you.

I absolutely love entertainment at receptions! However, I don’t think a comedian would be the type of entertainment I would choose. I say this mainly because comedians are very hit and miss. And they require everyone to sit down and pay attention to them. Typically elective entertainment or short, high energy entertainment is best for receptions. Examples: caricature artists, tarot card readers, and photo booths all provide fun entertainment that is optional for guests to participate in whenever they feel like it throughout the evening. Performances such as aerialists and dancers provide short, high energy performances that hype up the energy and are over quickly.

No reason a wedding has to be serious, but I agree that I wouldn’t expect a comedian to appeal to guests across the board. …and also there’s such a difference between good comedy and mediocre comedy! Sitting through an amateur can be tough, and especially so if stand up isn’t your jam.


I love comedy and go often to shows, but I wouldn’t like it for a wedding. My wedding rule of thumb is basically: I hate anything that requires me to be stuck in my seat. It’s a party, so that’s what I want— to be up and mingling !

I think it would be really weird? But not "wrong" or anything.

The best man will be doing a stand up set at our wedding. I'm looking forward to it.

As a guest I would prefer to socialize. Everyone’s taste in comedians is different as well. Plus with the industry standard 4 hour reception which includes dinner, many brides say they don’t have time to say to hi to the the entire guest list. Plus many guests see them as a family reunion of sorts to catch up with each other and socialize.

I think a comedian might be more appropriate for like a rehearsal dinner or something. Comedians can be so hit or miss and it really doesnt leave the option for socializing or dancing which is what most people want to do.

We briefly considered having a comedian, but we decided against it for a lot of the reasons here. Humor can be really subjective, and even if the target of the joke is ok with it, others may not be comfortable or get that it's all in good fun. Having a passive form of entertainment like Cece mentioned is probably your best bet if you want to add in something. That way people can choose to take part or just enjoy catching up with people, dancing, etc.

This is a great question! I also thought about this since my guests are very different in many ways. What better way to unite them than comedy. I personally think its a bright idea for the churchgoers who won't get up to dance or don't want to be in "party mode" like the other guest . Anyways is your wedding and you make it your way. I'm pretty sure it'll be awesome.