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PRE-PARTY IDEAS

primed to have a great time on your wedding day. Plus, true camaraderie will shine through in all your group photos. For these reasons, it’s always nice to bring the bridesmaids and groomsmen together for a little meet and mingle before the big day.

Rehearsal Dinner

While you could have your wedding party meet and mingle at your rehearsal dinner, this party is a bit more complex. A rehearsal dinner traditionally follows the rehearsal of the wedding ceremony, so it’s not all fun and games. It’s also held on the eve of the wedding, which puts some limits on the night’s festivities. Your rehearsal dinner should also include everyone in the bride and groom’s immediate families as well as the wedding party. It’s up to you if you want to also invite extended family and/or out-of-town guests.

PRE-WEDDING COCKTAILS

Following your more-intimate rehearsal dinner, you may want to host cocktails for any out-of-town guests. Typically, you can invite all out-of-towners to a local bar or restaurant. There’s no obligation to cover the cost of drinks if you don’t want to— this is more so an opportunity to see faraway friends and family who have traveled a distance to celebrate your wedding.

POST-WEDDING BRUNCH

Extend the wedding festivities beyond the big day itself. You might do a brunch and gift opening the day after your wedding, inviting close family, the bridal party, and any out of town guests. If you aren’t keen to open gifts in front of other people, keep the focus on family and simply gather together. This is a great way to squeeze in as much time together as possible with the people you love.