Ultimate Guide to Planning a Post-Wedding Brunch

table full of typical dishes, post wedding brunch

Congratulations, you're married! Now it's time to celebrate with a post-wedding brunch. Planning this event can be overwhelming, but with the right tips and advice, you can create a memorable experience for you and your guests. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about planning a post-wedding brunch that your loved ones will never forget.

8 Easy Steps To Plan A Memorable Post-Wedding Brunch

1. Creating a Guest List

The first step in planning a post-wedding brunch is to create a guest list. Consider inviting close family members, bridal party members, and other guests who traveled from out of town to attend your wedding. Keep in mind that this event is meant to be more intimate and relaxed than your wedding reception, so you may want to keep the guest list small and intimate.

When sending out invitations, be sure to include all the necessary details, such as the date, time, location, and RSVP information. You may also want to consider setting up a wedding website or sending out e-vites to make it easier for guests to RSVP and stay informed about the event.

2. Choosing a Venue

The next step is to choose a venue for your post-wedding brunch. Consider hosting the event at a local restaurant, cafe, or even in your own backyard. When selecting a venue, think about the ambiance, space, and menu options. Make sure the venue can accommodate your guest list and that it aligns with the relaxed and casual vibe you want to create for the brunch.

If you're hosting brunch at a restaurant, be sure to make a reservation well in advance and inquire about any special accommodations they can provide for your event. If you're hosting at home, consider setting up a buffet-style spread or hiring a caterer to handle the food and drinks.

3. Menu Planning

One of the most important aspects of planning a post-wedding brunch is the menu. Consider serving a variety of breakfast and brunch options, such as scrambled eggs, bacon, pastries, fresh fruit, and mimosas. You may also want to consider dietary restrictions and preferences when planning the menu, so be sure to offer vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.

If you're hosting brunch at a restaurant, work with the chef to create a custom menu that reflects your personal tastes and preferences. If you're hosting at home, consider preparing some of the dishes in advance and enlisting the help of friends and family to help with the food prep and serving.

4. Decor and Setup

Decor and set up for post wedding brunch with flowers

To create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere for your post-wedding brunch, consider investing in some simple decor and setup items. Think about using fresh flowers, string lights, candles, and table linens to add a touch of elegance to the event. You may also want to consider setting up a mimosa bar or a coffee station for guests to enjoy.

When setting up the space for the brunch, think about how you can create a comfortable and welcoming environment for your guests. Consider providing ample seating, setting up a designated area for food and drinks, and playing some background music to set the mood. Don't forget to consider the weather and any outdoor elements if you're hosting the brunch outside.

5. Entertainment and Activities

While a post-wedding brunch is meant to be a laid-back and casual affair, you may want to consider incorporating some entertainment and activities to keep your guests engaged and having fun. Consider setting up lawn games, a photo booth, or a live music performance to add an extra element of fun to the event.

You may also want to consider setting up a scrapbook station where guests can leave well wishes and memories for the newlyweds to treasure. Consider providing disposable cameras or setting up a social media hashtag for guests to share their photos and memories from the brunch.

6. Budgeting and Expenses

As with any event, it's important to create a budget for your post-wedding brunch and stick to it. Consider all the expenses involved, such as venue rental, catering, decor, entertainment, and any additional costs that may arise. Be sure to allocate funds to each aspect of the event and keep track of your expenses to ensure you stay within your budget.

You may also like: 5 Ways to Plan your Wedding on a Small Budget

If you're working with a tight budget, consider DIYing some of the decor and setup items, enlisting the help of friends and family for food prep and serving, or opting for a more casual and low-key venue. Remember that the most important thing is to create a memorable experience for you and your guests, so focus on the elements that are most important to you and your partner.

7. Day-of Coordination

On the day of your post-wedding brunch, make sure you have a solid plan in place for coordinating all the details of the event. Consider creating a timeline for the day, assigning tasks to friends and family members, and communicating with all vendors and staff to ensure everything runs smoothly.

You may also want to designate a point person or hire a wedding planner to oversee the event and handle any last-minute issues that may arise. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the brunch with your guests without worrying about the logistics of the event.

8. Thank-You Note

After the post-wedding brunch is over, be sure to send thank-you notes to all the guests who attended the event. Consider including a personalized message of thanks and gratitude for their presence and support. You may also want to consider sending small favors or tokens of appreciation to show your guests how much you appreciate their love and support.

Sending thank-you notes is a great way to express your gratitude and love to your guests and to keep the memories of the post-wedding brunch alive. Consider sending handwritten notes or personalized cards to make your guests feel special and appreciated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning a post-wedding brunch can be a fun and exciting experience that allows you to celebrate your marriage with your loved ones in a relaxed and casual setting. By following the tips and advice in this blog post, you can create a memorable event that reflects your personal tastes and preferences and leaves a lasting impression on your guests. So gather your loved ones, raise a toast, and enjoy a delicious meal together as you celebrate your new life together as a married couple

FAQs

Who hosts a post-wedding brunch?

Typically, the responsibility of hosting a post-wedding brunch falls on the newlywed couple or their families. However, close friends or other relatives may also take on this role as a gesture of love and support for the newlyweds.

When to throw a post-wedding brunch?

A post-wedding brunch is usually held the morning after the wedding ceremony. It provides an opportunity for guests to unwind and socialize in a more relaxed setting before departing.

Who gets invited to a post-wedding brunch?

Guests invited to a post-wedding brunch typically include close family members, bridal party members, out-of-town guests, and any other individuals who played significant roles in the wedding celebration. It's a chance to express gratitude and spend quality time with loved ones.

Should your post-wedding brunch have a dress code?

While a dress code is not mandatory for a post-wedding brunch, guests are usually encouraged to dress comfortably and casually. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing everyone to enjoy a leisurely meal and engage in conversation without feeling overdressed.

What do the newlyweds do at a post-wedding brunch?

The newlyweds can use the post-wedding brunch as an opportunity to express gratitude to their guests for attending the wedding. They may also take this time to socialize, share anecdotes from the wedding day, and reminisce about memorable moments with family and friends.

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