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You're just engaged! The months before and after your wedding are exciting (and a bit stressful) times. Hands down the big day takes center stage, but lets not forget about the pre and post-wedding events that add sparkle to your celebration and create additional unforgettable memories. As a wedding planner and designer, I love crafting these special moments, and I'm excited to share some inspiration with you! Let's dive in, shall we?
1. The Engagement Party: Kickstarting the Celebration!
This event takes place approximately 1-2 months after the engagement. A relaxed or party atmosphere...you choose a festive and celebratory environment is key. Think string lights, lounge seating, a dancefloor and a signature cocktail. You can incorporate elements of your wedding theme for a sneak peek. Who's Invited? Close friends and family from both sides. It's a great opportunity for everyone to get to know each other.
Out-of-the-Box Considerations:
Consider a destination engagement party if you're planning a destination wedding.
A "surprise engagement party" hosted by parents or a close friend is a fun way to celebrate the newly engaged couple.
2. The Bridal Shower: A Celebration of the Bride-to-Be
2-3 months before the wedding is the best timeline for the bridal shower. This event should be fun, it can be themed with a touch of femininity! Floral arrangements, pastel colors, personalized favors, and a mimosa bar are always a hit. Consider a theme that reflects the bride to be's personality, like a "tea party" or "spa day." Close female friends and family are usually invited but we don't have to leave the men out. Nowadays co-ed bridal showers are becoming increasingly popular. Traditionally, the maid of honor or bridesmaids host.
An out-of-the-box consideration: Instead of traditional gifts, consider a "charity shower" where guests donate to the bride's favorite cause.
3. The Rehearsal Dinner: Setting the Stage for "I Do"
The ideal timeline for this event is the night before the wedding. Typically immediate family, the bridal party, and out-of-town guests are invited. It usually happens right after the Wedding day rehearsals. It is different from a Welcome party as not all guests are invited.
Decor for this event can be a bit more formal or an intimate setting, it is based on the couples preferences. Think elegant table settings, candlelight, and personalized menus.
An Out-of-the-Box idea is a themed rehearsal dinner, like a "local cuisine" night or a "movie night." Couples could include a slideshow or video montage of their journey.
4. Welcome Party: Setting the tone for the Celebration
This is the perfect opportunity to meet and greet the wedding guests especially if you are having a destination wedding. The Welcome party takes place a few days before the wedding when most/all of the guests have arrived. The vibe for this event is festive. It can be a cocktail setting incorporating the culture of the destination and the distribution of welcome gifts for guests. An unconventional idea: There does not have to be an official programme however toasts/speeches can also be incorporated to minimize or eliminate them from the Wedding Day programme.
Many couples focus on pre wedding activities as based on time and budget after the wedding activities may not be feasible. However if you are having a destination wedding post wedding activities are essential!
The After-Wedding Brunch: A Relaxing Farewell
The ideal timeline is the morning after the wedding (not too early :)). The brunch should be a relaxed and casual vibe. Think comfortable seating, brunch-style food, and a "thank you" theme. Close friends and family should be invited.
Out-of-the-Norm Considerations: Incorporate a "mimosa bar" or a "build your own breakfast" station. Instead of a brunch a "farewell barbecue" is a fun way to say goodbye to guests. This could be done in the afternoon giving guests and the couple time to recuperate from the wedding.
The After-Wedding Excursion: Extending the Adventure
The ideal timeline for this event is the day after the wedding or days after the wedding.
This is more about the experience so think about the location and activities. If it is a boat trip, include themed snacks, and drinks. If it is a hike, ensure that there are lots of water and snacks. Who's Invited? Close friends and family who want to continue the celebration.
Other post wedding activities can include:
A "group activity" like snorkeling, zip-lining, or a guided tour.
A sunset cruise/party boat.
Tips from Your Wedding Planner to make these events super special!
Personalization is key: Make each event unique to your style and preferences.
Don't forget the details: From personalized napkins to signature cocktails, the little things make a big difference.
Delegate tasks: Don't be afraid to ask for help from friends and family.
Stay organized: Use a planning checklist to keep track of everything.
Check out the Knot: Websites like theknot.com offers tons of ideas and inspiration for all your wedding-related events.
As your dedicated wedding planner, I'm here to help you create unforgettable memories that extend beyond the wedding day. Terri Events will make all your celebration truly extraordinary! Contact Terri Events today and let us start planning.
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