Add Your Heading Text Here
There are so many wedding entertainment ideas out there these days so I wanted to compile a few of my personal favourites. My name is Valda and I’m the founder of takenplace weddings, an Irish wedding QR code company. I love working in the wedding industry, helping brides and grooms to create their perfect day.
Ensuring guests are entertained is one of the most important aspects of a memorable wedding day. You want your guests to be enjoying themselves from the second they step out of their cars right up to the last song of the night.
Couples are getting incredibly creative with their wedding entertainment and I am here for it. But I still meet people who are unsure as to what they want which is why I decided to help. Over the years, I have met so many fantastic people who work behind the scenes at hundreds of weddings each year. This compilation is made up of some people I know personally and others I have discovered through other weddings, recommendations and social media. So here is my guide of best Irish wedding entertainment ideas for this year, next year and beyond!
iSpy with Wedding QR Codes - takenplace weddings
Picture this: your guests capturing their own unforgettable moments throughout your big day and then instantly sharing them to your private gallery. This is exactly what I wanted on my own wedding day and what led me to create takenplace weddings.
One of my favourite features of our product is the iSpy game. Guests are given a list of specific things to photograph with their own phones like the best dancer, the worst dancer, the biggest smile, a table selfie etc. It’s a playful and engaging way to keep your guests entertained and involved throughout the day/
Plus, it helps you to capture memories you would never have seen as we know you need to spend a lot of time with your professional photographer to get those special moments of you both.
We also offer a live stream of your gallery so all your guests can see their photos. This can be done on the day itself, your day two or both!
We have three different packages, so there’s an option suitable for every wedding. Added bonus, this is super easy to set up! Not only is this a fun and interactive way to entertain your guests, but it also creates a treasure trove of memories for you to cherish. Our wedding QR codes are the perfect blend of technology and tradition and will make your wedding truly special.
Hear from our happy customers here.
Magic Selfie Mirror & 360 Mirror - DJC Events
We met Stephen Kearns, founder of DJC Events at a wedding fair a few years ago and since then we see him regularly at weddings and shows. His selfie mirror is so popular and deservedly so, it’s such a great wedding entertainment piece.
Stephen’s Magic Selfie Mirror is an absolute hit at weddings. Guests are invited to approach the interactive mirror, which displays funny little animations and a countdown to the flash. Photos print instantly, and you can personalise them with logos, names, and dates. An extra copy is placed in a guestbook, where guests to leave a special message for the bride and groom. Digital downloads can be sent directly to your email.
Their 360 Photo Booth is a rotating camera that captures super cool slow-mo, boomerangs or regular videos. Guests can stand, pose, or dance on the platform, resulting in glamorous videos that look like a professional Hollywood studio shot them. 360 cameras have become famous at red carpet events, and now it can be a part of your special day too.
DJCEvents offers packages to suit all event types and can personalise their services to match your theme. They provide their Magic Selfie Mirror and 360 booth in Tipperary, Kilkenny, Cork, Waterford, Clare, and Kerry.
Wedding DJ - BMG Sound
We met Billy from BMG Sound through another wedding supplier at a wedding fair in Cork and I promise you he is not just another wedding DJ. If you love your tunes and you know your guests do too then Billy is hard to beat!
Music is hugely important to keeping the atmosphere going and there’s no rule to say you can’t have a DJ spinning tracks from the drinks reception onwards. Sounds like a great day to me!
As well as a wedding DJ, BMG Sound provide a variety of different wedding entertainment ideas including percussionists, sax players and violinists. Billy has an impressive range of equipment on offer too, speakers, bass bins, lighting packages and screens that can suit small or large weddings.
Remember we mentioned how our takeNplace weddings qr code photos can be live streamed onto a big screen? We actually work with Billy to use his professional screens for this. The best part is he keeps the music going as the slideshow of guest photos plays. A great way to make a memorable night on the dancefloor! Billy’s wedding DJ hire service is available across all areas of Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Kerry.
Caricature Artist - James O' Donovan
James AKA James O’Donovan Caricatures hails from West Cork so we see him as at so many weddings here, and in the surrounding areas. James is Cork’s only live caricature artist and such a talented guy. It takes him less than 5 minutes to draw funny (but spot-on!) drawings of wedding guests. I’ve seen people completely blown away by his work.
Not many of us have caricatures of ourselves and it also serves as such a special and unique gift that your guests can take home. We see James working a lot during the wedding drinks reception which is the perfect time for entertainment ideas like this, it’s a great way to keep guests during this part of your wedding day.
James also creates custom gift caricatures and unique wedding stationery so caricature could be part of your theme.
Children's Entertainer - Auntie Katie
It’s one thing keeping your adult wedding guests entertained but a whole other story with your smaller attendees. “It’s a long day!” as they say.
I have no hesitation in hailing Auntie Katie as truly the best wedding nanny we have ever met. She has such a lovely warm and open personality that children are just drawn to her and her team.
Start time can be as early as 10 am either at your house or the venue and there are loads of options of time ranges, 6 hours, 18 hours and up to 24 hours. Auntie Katie’s team and trustworthy and dependable and take care of pretty much everything, from bottles and night feeds to dressing and of course, keeping the little ones entertained. From sitting with them during the ceremony, accompanying them at mealtime, playing games and even tucking them into bed.
This way, every wedding guest gets the opportunity to fully enjoy your big day, (especially you!) without having to worry about bored and over-tired tiny tots tearing around the place. If you have children yourself or have guests with children, Auntie Katie is a must-have!
Magican - Gerard Kearney
Gerard Kearney is an award-winning magician from Cork and someone we have seen enthral wedding guests on many occasions. Wedding magic is a unique and exciting way to add an extra element of entertainment to your day.
Gerard performs close-up magic at weddings, doing tricks a few feet from fascinated guests. You can choose to either have Gerard entertain during the reception or after dinner where he will go from table to table. It is such an interactive experience that get your guests talking, both on the day and long after too. Check out the YouTube video on his website to see him in action at weddings and the joy and awe that he brings to weddings. There is magic in the air at weddings anyway so it makes total sense to bring even more with a professional magician.
Wedding Singer - Kayla McDonagh
Kayla McDonagh is a classically trained wedding singer and I can honestly say she has been gifted with the most beautiful voice, it is pure joy to hear her sing.
I know Kayla from wedding fairs in Limerick where she has performed and her stand is always very busy. She can sing absolutely anything: classical, modern, traditional church, gospel, jazz, folk and Irish music. Kayla (accompanied by Mike) works with couple to create the perfect ceremony music for them. She offers a wide menu of songs for inspiration but is open to anything, including learning new songs! Whatever wedding vibe you’re going for, Kayla will be able to match it.
Kayla also has many years of experience in the industry as the frontwoman and manager of one of Ireland’s top wedding bands, The Experts Wedding Band. Over the past number of years, Kayla and the band have become Ireland’s leading wedding music and entertainment suppliers. Kayla and Mike also won Ceremony Singer of the Year 2023 at the Brides of Munster Wedding Industry Awards.
Wedding Band - The Experts
I can’t mention Kayla and not include her band, The Experts. While the band was Kayla’s dream, she is in good company with the other four members, Mike, Paul, Ollie and Cormac. They are all renowned musicians, who together have impressive experience in wedding entertainment, it’s where the name came from! The Experts strive to live by their values, reliability, priority and quality.
Music has and will always be one of the most important components of any wedding entertainment, it is crucial to setting the tone and fun of the day and booking the best means you can relax and leave this in the hands of the experts. A guaranteed floor filler!
Wedding Singer - Fiona Kennedy
Fiona Kennedy is a lovely lady who has great talents. I know her from a networking group in Cork as well as wedding fairs and shows. A singer, songwriter, guitarist, IRMA Award nominee and multiple award winner, Fiona is an esteemed wedding entertainer who will elevate your wedding day with her amazing talent.
The style of music Fiona will play can be decided by you depending on vision for your big day, modern, traditional, celtic etc. Fiona has a wide range of songs in her repertoire but will work with you to create the perfect soundtrack for your day. Fiona will travel all over Ireland, performs indoors and outdoors and is so accommodating, your guests will adore her!
Wedding Speeches - Instanza
The speeches are one of my favourite parts of a wedding day (but often not for the person delivering them!). They are such a beautiful way for you and your loved ones to show their affection and appreciation for all involved. However the best speeches are not only heartfelt but entertaining!
Enter Melanie Hunter, wedding supplier whom I know from weddingsonline and a networking group in Ireland. Melanie is the owner of Instanza and she writes speeches for weddings and pretty much every other celebratory moment in life. She writes traditional speeches but specialises in rhymed speeches – which are so unique and memorable. Melanie’s rhymed speeches are fun but also personal and sincere. Instead of stressing about the speeches, Melanie will help you to wow the crowd.
The Wedding Illustrator - Linda Byrne
Based in County Meath, Linda Byrne is an unbelievably talented illustrator and a “self-confessed lover of love”. Combining the two means Linda has carved out a name for herself as a successful wedding illustrator in Ireland.
I love the idea of having live art at a wedding as I can imagine it adds even more meaning to the day. Linda’s illustrations are so beautiful and manage to capture the life and love and likeness of people she draws. While James, Cork’s resident caricaturist, focuses on peoples heads, faces, hair etc. Linda has a flair for drawing their outfits in full colour too.
Linda offers two packages: “Draw My VIPs” and “Draw My Guests.” “Draw My VIPs” focuses on selected important guests with a full-day session, while “Draw My Guests” offers either a full or half-day session, capturing a broader range of guests. Both packages include custom illustrations on branded paper and of course include bride and groom portraits. The services are designed to provide an original form of wedding entertainment and forever keepsakes for guests.
Singing Waiters -
I’ve always loved the concept of singing waiters and surprise your guests with an impromptu performance. These performers pose as waitstaff and then burst into song, providing a mix of comedy and music. Singing Waiters Ireland bring the party atmosphere to a ten with their energetic performances and interactive approach. As their Instagram bio promises: “no more after dinner lull”. If your idea of a good time is a massive sing-song, cha-cha trains and dancing on chairs, then singing waiters might be for you.
A good friend of mine booked Wedding Singers Ireland for her wedding and kept it a secret from everyone, including the groom. On the day, when the waiters broke out in song, my friend said the look on her hubby’s face was one of the funniest moments in their relationship.
Wedding Casino - Brennan Events
Adding a touch of James Bond glamour to your wedding is certainly a unique way to entertain your guests. Brennan Events provide an amazing service, you can hire a whole casino or just a few tables, they can style the room as much or as little as you want, with balloons, draping and cut-outs.
The casino is run by professional croupiers, hostesses and MC’s who help beginners and make sure everything is played fun and fair. And the best part is, all games are played using €10,000 “fun money” which can be used to “buy” chips. There’s even a winners table to compete for!
The casino can be set up during the afternoon or evening, making it a versatile option for different wedding schedules. The team at Brennan Events also offer their casino to the day after the wedding, which is a perfect way of keeping the adrenaline and energy going.
Wedding Game Hire
Some weddings have a kids table for the small guests and some weddings have kids games for the big guests. Game Hire Ireland specialises in adding an unconventional twist to weddings with a wide selection of games including mini-golf, foosball, inflatable bowling alleys, retro arcade machines and giant garden games like Jenga and Connect Four. Fun! Some seem to be more suitable for outdoors but I guess it depends on your wedding. I kind of wish I could get married again just to have games like these for my wedding entertainment.
The games can be tailored to complement your wedding aesthetic and Game Hire Ireland’s professional team will work with you and your venue for the planning and set-up. They also provide on-site support so that you don’t need to worry about the logistics.
Wedding Cocktails - Hire A Mixologist
Bar staff are usually running at weddings and it’s not really the time to order a round of raspberry mojitos. But cocktails go down a treat on any special day (or a normal Tuesday) so why not bring your own mixologists to your wedding?
Hire A Barman have a team of highly skilled mobile mixologists who will entertain and delight your guests with bespoke cocktails crafted to perfection. Whether you’re looking for classic concoctions or custom creations, their bartenders cater to all tastes, adding a stylish edge to your wedding reception.
Their services include hiring professional cocktail bartenders, flair bartenders, and mobile, LED lit bars, all designed to seamlessly integrate into your wedding festivities. There are three packages available, all with different options of tools and menus. The mixologists come equipped with shakers and other necessary bar tools. I’ve heard some venues are more receptive than others though so it is best to double check before you book.
Silent Disco Ireland
Most couples don’t want their wedding night to end and with Silent Disco Ireland you can stretch it on beyond the noise restriction deadline. Silent discos are a blast because they allow everyone to enjoy their preferred music, creating a diverse and vibrant atmosphere. No one feels left out, as multiple music channels cater to different tastes. The novelty of a silent disco adds an element of fun and surprise, keeping guests entertained and talking about your wedding for years to come.
Their wedding package includes a specialist wedding DJ and all you need for silent disco set-up. They will supply high-quality wireless headsets and transmitters, which can be integrated with your DJ, live band, or even your personal playlists. For an extra personal touch, the headsets can be branded or colour-coded to complement your wedding theme. The team at Silent Disco Ireland also offer on-site technical support if needed.
Wedding Fireworks - Rocket Pyrotechnics
If fireworks are good enough for Taylor Swift’s Era’s Tour finale, they might slot in perfectly at your wedding too. Imagine your wedding night culminating in a breathtaking symphony of light and colour, perfectly orchestrated to mirror your own love story. Rocket Pyrotechnics crafts each fireworks display as a personalised masterpiece, designed to enchant and amaze.
Imagine the awe and delight of your guests as the night sky comes alive with a stunning display. Rocket Pyrotechnics’ reputation for excellence is not just about the fireworks but the entire experience—working closely with you to ensure every detail is perfect.
Utilising their experienced team of designers and display managers Rocket Pyro delivers spectacular shows from the most unconventional of sites using state-of-the-art wireless firing technology and SFX equipment. Our robust systems and procedures ensure that creatively choreographed performances are synchronised perfectly as precise firings can be programmed to within one-hundredth of a second. Using only the best quality fireworks chosen for their vibrant colours and lasting magical effects. Many wedding couples choose to include fireworks for a thrilling WOW factor to round off a perfect day.
Wedding Sing Song - Sing Along Social
Sing Along Social (hosted by The Craic Mechanics) will get a group sing song going at your wedding and it sounds like an absolute blast. Think karaoke but in a big group and without the microphones. It doesn’t matter if people can’t hold or note or don’t know the words. This is about the joy of belting out cheesy pop-songs, supreme wedding entertainment in my opinion!
The teams infectious energy is matched only by their passion for creating magical moments. With a playlist that reads like a love letter to guilty pleasures, from the timeless allure of “Dancing Queen” to the soulful yearning of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” every song is a thread weaving together memories that linger long after the last note fades.
Their journey knows no bounds, traversing cities and spanning continents to infuse weddings with the euphoria of shared melodies. More than mere entertainment, Sing Along Social offers not just songs, but also coaching in confidence and
Irish Dancers - Celtic Dance Company
Traditional Irish dancing is adored throughout the world and its intricate footwork and synchronized movements tell the story of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. Having professional Irish dancers perform at your wedding is up there with the best entertainment you can offer your guests.
Celtic Dance Co. bring Irish customs, values and practices together through their Irish Dance Wedding Show package. This offering is perfect for couples seeking to infuse their special day with the spirit of Ireland. Their dancers, who include world and Irish champions, will captivate your guests with a performance that exudes both grace and power.
Celtic Dance Co. ensures a seamless experience from booking to performance. Based in Dublin, Cork, and Limerick, their dancers are ready to travel anywhere to bring their show to your wedding. They promise not just a performance, but a wow factor experience.
Neon Signs & Wedding Styling
With Polka Dot Events, you can take your wedding aesthetic to another level. The team will style your special day with an extensive array of decor rentals. You can choose from enchanting wedding arches, 4ft love letters, cherry blossom trees, lanterns and unique centerpieces to totally raise the creative bar.
My personal favourites are their neon signs which promise to be the perfect spot for your guests to snap TikTok trendy photos and videos. This is a perfect wedding entertainment idea!
Signing off...
Thank you so much reading and I hope you got loads of inspirations from my personal round up of some of the best wedding entertainment ideas out there in Ireland!