Hosting a Wedding Weekend
Sometimes one day wedding isn't enough! If you have a lot of out-of-town guests OR just want to make your wedding a really fun memory, consider hosting a wedding weekend.
Now you may be wondering — what IS a wedding weekend & how much is this going to cost me? Everyone’s wedding budget looks a bit different, but for suggestions on all inclusive resorts/venues here in California, check out these package options:
Twenty Mile House (one of our couples got married HERE!)
Inviting Guests to Your Wedding Weekend
On the invitations, if not everyone is involved to a particular event, do not include it on your website or invitations. Offer personal invites to events that certain guests are invited to and make sure they know it’s not an open event. This will cut opportunities for any hurt feelings.
After handling all your invites— what does a wedding weekend timeline look like & what kind of events do you add? If you REALLY want to make your wedding weekend EPIC, pay attention to these tips:
Your Wedding Weekend Timeline
Photo: from BRIDES
1.Host a Welcome Party
This could be elaborate (catered with decor) or small (park and BBQ) but will kick off your weekend and welcome guests. A rule of thumb - the welcome party is typically separate from your rehearsal dinner/lunch, but it can be any time the day-before your wedding. Just don’t cram all these events together.
Another helpful tip: if the Welcome Party is the night before, don’t go TOO late! This ensures your guests are not too tired/hungover for the Wedding Day.
Photo: by Pigeon Forge
2. Plan an activity or excursion
From hanging by the resort pool to axe throwing to river rafting — we have seen our Couples plan amazing activities that create memories!
Tip: Do this at least 2-3 days before your wedding to ensure everyone has recovered from the day for your wedding day.
Photo: by Composing Reality Photography
3. Wedding Afterparty!
If you are at a resort or need to end before 10pm on your wedding day, you might consider an after- party. First, take a good look at your guest list to determine if this is something your crowd would be into. Secondly, choose a location that isn’t too far away from your venue (such as a nearby bar, house, etc.)
Photo: from Restaurant Clicks
4. Day-After Brunch
The day after your wedding, if you are wanting to spend extra time with your guests (especially those out of town people you don’t see very often), a day-after brunch is a great way to “thank” your guests for a great weekend. You’re going to want to plan brunch for after around 9:30am (no one wants to jump out of bed the day after a wedding).
Photo: from iStock
Tip: Plan to head off to your honeymoon/night away after your brunch.
Lastly, make sure to do all wedding activities prior to your wedding day and plan for one-on-one moments during & after your wedding day. This will make it feel like a genuine celebration.
