Beyond the Aisle: After-Party
Featured Photo by Nicole Donnelly Photography
What
Depending on your reception venue’s hours or noise restrictions, your party might have to close down before you’re done celebrating. This is when the after- party comes in! Whether you want to wind down with a drink or dance the night away, many couples choose to extend the festivities beyond the reception itself.
While it’s a good idea to have some after-party plans in mind, it’s often an event that arises spontaneously.
As the night progresses and last call approaches, you and your guests may realize you’re not quite ready to call it a night. Don’t feel pressured to plan an elaborate after-party that you may be too exhausted to enjoy. Keep some ideas in mind, but remember that most wedding after-parties occur organically.
Who
Your parents and grandparents can head home to get some rest while you and your close friends continue on into the night with loosened ties and kicked-off shoes. Anyone who has the stamina to keep the festivities going is invited.
Even though you might want to keep the party going, let guests know that it is not expected for them to do the same. Some may be ready to go to sleep, so be clear that it’s perfectly acceptable to skip the after-party. This one is for the night owls and young-at-heart!
When
Right after the reception ends.
Where
Many couples have an after-party held at a hotel room, nearby bar or a friend’s house. The two things to keep in mind for the after-party are proximity and size. Ensure the after-party location is easily accessible from your reception venue. Even better, continue the party on premise if there are spots available (we’re talking hotel rooms, the venue’s public bar, etc.). Second, make sure that the after-party spot has enough room for everyone who is coming. It might sound fun to go to your favorite cocktail bar, but the intimate environment might not be able to accommodate a group of 30.
Ready to plan some more celebrations beyond the aisle? Check out 6 more wedding-related events to consider here!
