EXTENDED WEDDING FUN

REHEARSAL DINNERS, AFTER PARTIES, & WEEKEND ADVENTURES

by ANNE PYBURN CRAIG

date posted: March 16, 2017

Why confine yourself to a few hours of formal fun? During the actual ceremony, and even the reception, you’ll be as busy as an autumn squirrel. Stretch the fun with an extended wedding and have some time to catch up and bond. Possibilities abound! Some popular ones:

rehearsal dinner:

An opportunity to bond with the most important people in your lives, even if they are not involved with the rehearsal. Incorporate each family’s background into the menu, music, or decor. Tell the story of your first meeting. Read a joint love letter to your loved ones. Icebreakers can be as simple as having everyone give a toast or as elaborate as you want to make them: Word games? Karaoke?

after-party:

For those who never want the night to end! Add a handwritten note to your invitation for those included. Change into something comfy. Reserve space at a pool hall or bowling alley. Have a pub crawl. Rent a disco ball. Get a large canvas and a bunch of markers for guests to get artistic. The rules are: There are no rules.

weekend fun bonus:

Camping? Swimming at a local water hole? Hike and picnic? River cruise? Horseback riding? Sculpture park? Lucky you, marrying in the Hudson Valley with so many great possibilities!

morning-after brunch:

Should be easy and fun, demanding nothing of guests (or you) and giving plenty. Recruit a trusted friend, relative, or wedding party attendant to help with organizing and preparation. Not too early please!

some ideas:

Espresso machine, mimosas or Bloody Marys, and fruit-infused water
Buffet with fruit, granola, and heavier choices like waffles, eggs, and bacon
Slideshow of wedding and reception shots
Brief thank-you-and-farewell speech