Aerial performers turn empty space above your guests into part of the show, and they work best at moments when the room is already looking up: a drinks reception, an entrance or a dancefloor opener. Here are seven ideas we see work well, all of which depend on the right ceiling height and safe rigging.
Key takeaways
- Aerial acts work best at drinks receptions, entrances and dancefloor openers.
- Pairing aerial with live strings or a DJ turns it into a full production.
- Every idea depends on ceiling height and safe, approved rigging.
1. Welcome guests with an aerial drinks reception
A slow, elegant hoop routine above the drinks reception gives guests something to watch while the couple are having photos. It sets the tone for a luxurious evening without needing any speeches or announcements.
Keep the routine gentle and flowing at this point in the day. Guests are chatting and moving around, so the act works as a beautiful backdrop rather than a show that demands everyone's attention.
Pair it with a harpist or string quartet and the room feels like a production from the first minute.
2. Serve drinks from the air
Aerial champagne or drinks serving is a talking point at any reception. The performer hangs in a hoop above a table and hands drinks down to guests, which makes for great photos.
It needs a rigging point directly above the table and a clear area around it, so plan the room layout with your venue and decor team. It is a great fit for sangeet nights and receptions where the bar is a focal point of the room.
3. Frame the couple's entrance
An aerial performer above the entrance as the couple walk in, lit by a spotlight, gives a magical moment for your photographer and videographer. For Asian weddings, pair it with a Bollywood string quartet playing a favourite film track.
Rigging must be clear of the walkway so no one passes directly underneath during the routine.
Want a quote for aerial performers?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
4. Open the dancefloor with a showpiece
A high energy silk or hoop routine just before the dancefloor opens builds anticipation. As the routine ends, the DJ drops the first track and guests move onto the floor.
Keep the aerial area separate from the dancefloor itself so the rig and matting do not get in the way.
Talk to your DJ about the handover. A clear cue from the end of the routine into the first track keeps the energy high and stops the room from going quiet.
5. Add height to a corporate event
At awards nights, product launches and gala dinners, aerial acts use the height of large ballrooms and conference halls. A routine to reveal a product, a branded hoop or a silk act over the stage all create a strong first impression.
Corporate venues often have rigging points already in place, but they still need approval and paperwork. Allow extra time for the venue's own technical team to review the plan, as large conference venues in London, Birmingham and Manchester usually have a set process for this.
6. Use a freestanding rig outdoors
Where the venue has no suitable ceiling, some teams can bring a freestanding rig for a garden or courtyard performance. It works well for summer receptions and garden parties in good weather.
It needs level ground, enough space for the rig's footprint and a wet weather plan, as aerial work is not safe in high wind or rain.
If an outdoor rig is not practical, our wider wedding entertainment range includes plenty of acts that work on the ground and in any weather.
Want a quote for aerial performers?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
7. Combine aerial with other visual acts
For a big reception, an aerial act alongside mirror men or stilt walkers fills the room at every level. Guests see performers on the floor, above the crowd and in the air.
We cover the whole UK and destination weddings abroad, so tell us about your venue and we will suggest a combination that fits.
Frequently asked questions
When should an aerial act perform at a wedding?
The drinks reception, couple's entrance and just before the dancefloor opens are the most popular moments. Avoid the meal and speeches, when guests are seated and focused elsewhere.
Can aerial performers work outdoors?
Some teams offer freestanding rigs for outdoor use. They need level ground, enough space and a weather plan, as aerial work stops in wind or rain.
What is aerial drinks serving?
A performer hangs in a hoop above a table and hands drinks to guests. It needs a rigging point directly above the table and venue approval.
Can aerial acts perform to live music?
Yes. Pairing aerial routines with a harpist, string quartet or violinist works beautifully, as long as the timings are agreed in advance.
Bring aerial to your event
Tell us your venue and the moment you have in mind and we will send a free quote.
Book aerial performers near you
Aerial Performers in LondonAerial Performers in BirminghamAerial Performers in ManchesterAerial Performers in LeedsAerial Performers in GlasgowAerial Performers in LiverpoolAerial Performers in BristolAerial Performers in Sheffield
Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
