What are some ideas that have worked well?

Post a schedule.  If you do, more people hang out for the next event.

Personalize the bar.  Instead of using the shelves to put alcohol on, personalize with pictures, candles, flowers, schedule, etc.   The bar area is great without any personalization, but it becomes so warm when personalized.

When you have your first dance, having your friends and family circle around you works so well.  And there's plenty of room for even a group of a couple hundred.  Plus, when you move from first dances to dancing, it is much easier for your DJ when everyone is out of their seat.