Welcome to the era of the wedding weekend—a multi-day celebration with several events to attend. The wedding welcome party kicks off these festivities, bringing together your closest friends and family for the first time. Unlike a reception or rehearsal dinner, a welcome party can be informal and personalized, making it one of the most enjoyable events.
Who Is Invited?
Originally, welcome parties were meant to celebrate and thank out-of-town guests. Nowadays, it’s common to invite all your wedding guests. “People may think locals don’t have to be invited, but they’re mistaken,” says event and wedding planner Marcy Blum. The welcome party serves as an icebreaker, setting the tone for the weekend and allowing guests to connect before the main event. Invitations can be sent along with your wedding invite, via Paperless Post, or detailed on your wedding website. Remember to include an end time to ensure guests are well-rested for the wedding day.
Planning Your Welcome Party
When planning your welcome party, consider the overall flow of your wedding weekend. “Think of the wedding as a three-day ensemble piece,” advises Blum. The welcome party should have a distinct vibe from the rehearsal dinner and wedding day. Infuse it with personality and a fun dress code. Thematic events like an ‘80s cover band, a General Store, or aperitivo stations can create a memorable experience.
Choose a venue that fits your aesthetic and is close to your hotel block. Providing transportation can also be helpful. Ensure the venue has enough space for guests to mingle and interact. “Welcome parties are a great place for toasts,” says Blum. “Most people are standing, which allows toasts to be shorter and go by faster.”
Menu and Logistics
For the welcome party, opt for a casual menu. “We never do a seated meal for the welcome party,” explains Blum. Consider passed tasting plates, heavy hors d’oeuvres, or a dessert and champagne event. If combining the welcome party with the rehearsal dinner, ensure there is no overlap. Use separate spaces or a private room for the rehearsal dinner, and have someone from the inner circle greet guests as they arrive at the welcome party.
By thoughtfully planning your wedding welcome party, you can set the stage for a fun and memorable wedding weekend.
