A wedding celebration that lasts all weekend can be a total blast and offers even more opportunities to make memories. Just a few additions to your plans can add layers of bonding that will truly make your wedding weekend one to remember.
HERE’S WHAT AN EXTENDED HUDSON VALLEY WEDDING CAN INCLUDE:
A WELCOME GATHERING: Have a get-together on Thursday or Friday evening and welcome everyone into the circle of celebration. An open house at your home or a group dinner at a local restaurant gives people a chance to meet and mingle, forming bonds they can enjoy all weekend long.
tips: Make welcome packets for your out-oftown guests. Include maps, tourist suggestions, and basic information, such as where to find the nearest pharmacy, where to get groceries, and where to find the cheapest gas. Make sure you give them a copy of VISITvortex as their guide to the Hudson Valley and Catskills too.
ADVENTURES: Have your guests experience the beautiful Hudson Valley with a hike up Overlook Mountain or a stroll down the Walkway Over the Hudson. Or, try retail therapy in New Paltz, Woodstock, or Saugerties. A river cruise, art gallery visit, or even sky diving would be great too.
tips: Break up your guests into groups, and designate members of the bridal party as hosts to lead the them on different outings. Make sure you have several options for varying tastes and a couple of indoor ones in case the weather is uncooperative.
SUNDAY BRUNCH: A laid-back farewell gathering the day after your wedding is a wonderful way to reflect on the whole experience and say those last few important thank-yous.
tips:Print copies of one or two favorite pics—maybe a shot of the wedding party and a great candid from the reception—and autograph them with thank-you messages as final parting gifts.
Appoint a few members of your bridal party as liaisons to offer information and travel support to out-of-towners in case you are busy preparing for the wedding.
Keep your wedding website or Facebook page updated with weather and traffic information that guests may need.
Don’t overschedule or make anything seem mandatory. Guests will need some downtime or time to explore on their own.
Make sure your wedding preparations are finalized well in advance so they don’t interrupt your time with your guests.
Get enough rest! A late night on the town may seem like an irresistible idea, but you’ll regret it when you find yourself exhausted the day of your ceremony. Instead, organize an event the evening before your wedding for your guests to enjoy while you rest up for your big day.
