At some point during your wedding planning, you’ve probably heard about wedding after-parties. You may be thinking, “Is this really a thing? Should I be hosting one?” The experts say it’s totally up to you. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re considering hosting a wedding after party.
Will your friends and family like the idea?
All families are different, and so are all friends. If your crew loves the idea of reveling late into the night, they’ll be thrilled at the concept of a wedding after party. And if your family members are night owls who love being together, chances are they’ll be into it, too.
Some families and friends, on the other hand, enjoy rising early rather than staying up late. They’ll appreciate getting to bed at a decent hour. Gauge the interest level that your guests may have in the after-party, and you’ll have some clue of whether it would be well-attended or not.
Do you have guests with care needs?
If you have older family members, friends with health issues, small children, and others who need care, having an after-party may not be the best idea. Even those friends and family members who could attend may need to serve as care-givers for those who are tired or less able to participate.
Can you afford it?
This is a big one for many couples. While you won’t be expected to pay for everyone’s drinks or food at the after-party, you may have costs related to transportation and venue reservation— and your own drinks.
You want the majority of your wedding budget to go towards the event itself, including the gorgeous venue, the magnificent spread of food, fabulous flowers, and top-notch music and entertainment.
If you really want an after-party, see if you’re willing to cut costs in those areas to make it happen; or find another way to score the extra dollars you need.
Do you like the idea?
Keep in mind that you’re going to be exhausted, emotionally and physically, after preparing for the wedding and then smiling through the ceremony and the reception. Know your body and your mental capacity for long days and late nights.
If you think you’ll be able to keep going and live it up well into the night, you may be the perfect candidates for the after-party experience. However, if you suspect that the two of you will be happier leaving in the getaway car and slipping away to start your honeymoon, skip the after-party.
Whether you have a wedding after-party or not, consider giving your guests some options if they’d like to hang out together a little longer. You can create a fun list of bars and late-night destinations on your wedding website, or make cards that list those top choices so your guests can grab one as they leave your reception.
Above all, make sure your wedding experience is one that’s perfect for you as a couple! To gain professional ideas and a beautiful venue for your wedding day, contact Nanina’s in the Park and schedule a tour of our ballroom, bridal suite, and grounds.
