Junior Rasmussen
Planning a wedding party instead of a reception? You're in luck! The fundamentals of a wedding reception are the same as any party, so it's easy to make the shift. First, consider the timing: if your party is on the same day as your wedding, it will likely be considered a reception. If you want to avoid this, you could always hold your party a few months later and call it a wedding celebration. Next, think about the guest list and the vibe you want to create. A welcome party is a great icebreaker for guests who haven't met and can set the tone for the rest of the weekend. It's also a chance to be adventurous with food and drinks, so don't feel you have to stick to a seated meal. Finally, don't forget the entertainment! From lawn games to belly dancers, photo booths to after-parties, there are plenty of ways to keep your guests happy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Invites | Specify start and end times, dress code, and whether it's an open house or an event for guests to attend in its entirety |
| Budget | Set a budget and a menu. A large party with more than 75 guests could cost around $700–$800 |
| Clean-up | Use compostables to make clean-up easier, such as disposable plates, cups, glasses, and napkins |
| Timing | If it's right after the wedding, it's usually called a reception; if it's on another day, it's often known as a wedding celebration |
| Food | Be adventurous with the food and serve something different from the wedding day. Consider passed tasting plates, heavy hors d'oeuvres, or a dessert and champagne event |
| Entertainment | Incorporate entertainment that represents you and your partner's style, such as lawn games, a photo booth, or unexpected themes |
| Venue | Choose a venue that suits your theme and guest count. Consider a backyard BBQ, a hall, or a venue with food, beverages, and vendors |
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What You'll Learn
- Invites: Specify start and end times, attire, and whether it's an open house or not
- Budget: Set a budget for food, drinks, and decor
- Food and drinks: Decide on a seated meal or passed tasting plates
- Entertainment: Provide music, entertainment, and activities like lawn games
- Venue: Choose a venue that suits your guest list and desired atmosphere
Invites: Specify start and end times, attire, and whether it's an open house or not
When it comes to invites, it's important to be clear and specific. This is especially true if you're eloping and want to throw a party to celebrate, as guests need to understand that they are not being invited to a wedding. Specify the start and end times, indicating whether the start time is firm or flexible, and whether it's an open house or if you expect people to attend the entire event. This is key to managing your guests' expectations.
For example, you might want to say something like: "Join us to celebrate our marriage from 7 pm onwards. We'll be toasting at 8 pm, and the party will wrap up at midnight." This gives guests a clear picture of the timeline and lets them know they can arrive any time from 7 pm onwards if they can't make the full event.
If your wedding party is the night before the wedding, as is often the case with welcome parties, it's especially important to include an end time so guests aren't tired and hungover for the wedding day.
You should also specify the attire or dress code. This could be something fun and different from the wedding, like a themed party. If it's a casual, laid-back wedding party, you might want to specify something like "smart casual" or "cocktail attire".
Finally, consider including details about the event on your wedding website or sending a Paperless Post invitation. This can help streamline the process and ensure guests have all the information they need in one place.
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Budget: Set a budget for food, drinks, and decor
Setting a budget for food, drinks, and decor is an important part of planning a wedding party. The cost of food and drinks is one of the biggest expenses in a wedding budget, and the price can vary depending on the number of guests and the type of food and beverages served.
To save money on food, some couples choose to have a backyard barbecue or a potluck-style dinner, which can be significantly cheaper than catering. If you decide to hire a caterer, the cost per person can range from $90 to $150 or more, depending on your location and the type of food and drinks you choose. Be sure to ask about any additional fees, such as service charges, rentals, and gratuity, which can increase the overall cost.
Drinks can also be a significant expense, especially if you are providing alcohol. One way to save money on drinks is to choose a venue that allows you to bring your own beverages, or to offer a limited selection of wine and beer instead of a full bar.
When it comes to decor, there are several ways to keep costs down. Consider using compostable or reusable plates, cups, glasses, and napkins instead of renting or buying disposable items. You can also save money on flowers by choosing local and in-season options, or by using alternative decorations such as candles or paper flowers.
Don't forget to include some buffer in your budget for unexpected costs, such as overtime fees if your party runs longer than expected, or additional charges for pre-wedding trials and extra decorations.
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Food and drinks: Decide on a seated meal or passed tasting plates
When it comes to food and drinks at your wedding party, there are several options to consider. You could opt for a seated meal or choose to have passed tasting plates. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your decision:
Seated Meal
A seated meal is the most traditional and popular way to serve food at a wedding reception. It gives a formal feel to the event and allows guests to remain seated and comfortable while being served hot, fresh meals directly at their tables. This option is well-liked because it feels elegant and luxurious. It also ensures that guests get exactly what they want since they usually pre-select their choice of entrée when submitting their RSVPs, accommodating different dietary preferences and restrictions.
However, a potential downside to a seated meal is the additional cost for extra servers, as many will be needed to bring out the food. It is important to discuss this with your caterer or venue to understand the requirements and potential expenses.
Passed Tasting Plates
If you want to encourage a more interactive and engaging atmosphere, passed tasting plates or heavy hors d'oeuvres are a great option. This style allows guests to mix, mingle, and dance while enjoying small bites. It offers variety and flexibility, accommodating various dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options.
Passed tasting plates are also cost-effective, especially for weddings with large guest lists, as you won't need to fund a full meal for every attendee. However, it's important to note that this option may not be suitable for older guests as it involves standing and moving around.
Other Considerations
When deciding on food and drinks, it's essential to set a budget and consider the overall theme and vibe of your wedding party. You can incorporate personal touches, such as cultural dishes, family favourites, or a meal from a special date. If you're having a welcome party, consider making it unique and adventurous, perhaps with a fun dress code.
Additionally, be mindful of the practical aspects, such as the number of guests, venue space, and catering capabilities. Compostable tableware is an eco-friendly and convenient option for cleanup.
Whether you choose a seated meal or passed tasting plates, ensure that your guests' comfort and enjoyment are prioritized, creating a memorable celebration that reflects your style and tastes.
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Entertainment: Provide music, entertainment, and activities like lawn games
Music, entertainment, and activities are essential to creating a fun and memorable wedding party. Here are some ideas to consider:
Music
Music is a crucial element of a wedding party. It can set the tone, create a festive atmosphere, and get your guests up and dancing. If you want live music, consider hiring a band that suits your wedding theme and style. For instance, a Mumford-style band for a rustic wedding or a vintage-inspired band for a retro-themed wedding. Alternatively, a string quartet with a modern twist can add a unique and elegant touch to your celebration. If you're looking for something more low-key, a DJ can be a great option to keep the party going without taking up too much space.
Entertainment
Think about what type of entertainment would delight your guests and reflect your personalities. If you're adventurous, consider amusement park rides or a fire performance. For a touch of glamour, hire singers, dancers, and acrobats or even a ballet troupe. A tarot card reader or astrologist can add a whimsical and eccentric element to your party. For a more relaxed atmosphere, a bonfire with s'mores can create a cosy and intimate setting for your guests to gather around.
Lawn Games
Lawn games are a fun addition to your wedding party, offering an alternative activity for guests who might not be interested in dancing. Cornhole, giant Jenga, horseshoes, and yard pong are popular choices. Customised games with personal touches related to the bride and groom can make the experience even more special. However, keep in mind that the success of lawn games depends on various factors, such as the weather, the number of games provided, and the interests of your guests. Ensure you have a variety of games suitable for different group sizes and ages, and consider the layout to encourage a natural flow between socialising and gameplay.
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Venue: Choose a venue that suits your guest list and desired atmosphere
When choosing a venue, consider the number of guests you plan to invite and the atmosphere you want to create. If you're planning a more intimate gathering, a small venue like a backyard or local hall might be suitable. For a larger guest list, consider venues that can accommodate a bigger group, such as a rented-out ice skating rink, a restaurant, or a larger hall.
The venue you choose should also reflect the desired atmosphere for your party. Do you want a casual and laid-back gathering, or a more formal celebration? If you're aiming for a relaxed vibe, a backyard barbecue or a park picnic can be perfect. On the other hand, if you're looking for something more formal, consider venues that offer a unique experience, such as a historic mansion, a museum, or even a boat cruise.
Think about the time of year and the weather when selecting a venue. For example, if you're planning a winter wedding, a cosy indoor space with a fireplace might be ideal. Alternatively, if your wedding is in the summer, consider venues with outdoor spaces, like gardens or rooftops, to take advantage of the warm weather.
Additionally, consider venues that align with your interests and hobbies. For instance, if you and your partner love art, a gallery or studio space could be a unique venue. Or, if you're foodies, choose a venue known for its culinary delights, whether it's a restaurant with a renowned chef or a space that allows for food trucks or specialty caterers.
When deciding on a venue, it's essential to keep your budget in mind. Some venues may charge a rental fee, while others might include catering and other services in their packages. Be sure to ask about any additional costs, such as setup, cleanup, or staffing fees.
Finally, don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to venues. If you have a unique vision or theme for your wedding party, look for spaces that can accommodate your ideas. Whether it's a rustic barn for a country-themed party or a rooftop garden for a celestial-themed celebration, choosing a venue that suits your style will help create a memorable event for you and your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
If you want to throw a wedding party and not a reception, it's important to manage your guests' expectations. Make it clear on your invitations that this is a separate event from the wedding. You can also specify a start and end time, indicate whether it's an open house or an event you expect people to attend in its entirety, and specify a dress code.
The fundamentals of a good party are food, drinks, music or entertainment, and places for people to sit. You can also add a personal touch by choosing a fun dress code or theme. If your wedding party is the night before your wedding, make sure it has a different vibe so that guests can still get a good night's sleep.
You can serve a seated meal, but it's also an opportunity to be adventurous with food and serve something different from your wedding day. You could do passed tasting plates, heavy hors d'oeuvres, or a dessert and champagne event. For drinks, you could set out coolers with beer, soda, and water.
