@the______bar, @lizlinkleterevents
Holding a post-wedding brunch is becoming more and more popular among newly married couples. Not surprising! Farewell brunch is a great way to expand your wedding celebration and thus spend more time with your loved ones. What’s cool, there are no set rules, so you have more creative freedom to plan everything to your liking. Still, there are a lot of things to consider and be aware of — and that’s why we are here! Scroll down to find everything you need to know about post-wedding brunch etiquette.
Is a post-wedding brunch necessary?
Well, when it comes to holding a farewell brunch, it’s for you to decide whether you want it or not. A post-wedding brunch is an additional event that gives an opportunity for newlyweds to connect with more of their guests and share their happiness. Such an event is especially popular for destination weddings when everyone is out of town. Still, if you just do not feel like throwing a farewell brunch or are tight on budget, you don’t need to push yourself. Everything about your wedding celebration should be enjoyable and not a burden.
@daniloandsharon,@hilde.stories
Who is in charge?
As we’ve already mentioned, there are no set rules for planning a post-wedding brunch. So, anyone can host it — the enthusiasm is what matters! However, it’s usually newlyweds or their families who are in charge of planning. You can also delegate this task to your maid of honor or best man. Getting help from your wedding planner (if you have one) is even better, as you won’t have to worry about all the small details. But don’t forget that holding a post-wedding brunch shouldn’t be a last-minute decision. Think through everything three to six months in advance, which is considered the perfect time for planning any wedding-related activities. As for the venue, you can either stick to your wedding venue or choose a completely different location.
Who gets invited?
That’s up to you and your budget! If your resources allow you to invite all of your wedding guests, then do it without hesitation. However, it’s by no means necessary. You can cut down some names from the guest list to keep the post-wedding brunch more intimate by inviting only a limited number of people like members of the family and the wedding party. It would also be a lovely gesture to invite out-of-town guests considering what a long way they’ve come to attend your big celebration. While rearranging the guest list, remember: consistency is the key.
When do you throw it?
The farewell brunch traditionally takes place the very next morning after the wedding. Give yourself and your guests time to get ready after a good night's sleep and start the event once everyone feels refreshed. Typically post-wedding brunches last 2.5 hours and kick off around 11 a.m. or noon. If you plan your wedding to be a night affair, be mindful of the guests and consider holding the farewell brunch later. For instance, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. By doing so, you will give your guests enough time to rest. But don't start the event too late. Don't forget that some of your guests might have a long drive home ahead.
What about the dress code?
The dress code for your wedding usually sets the tone for post-wedding brunch attire too. However, everything depends on you and your vision. If you plan a special brunch dress code or no dress code at all — that’s completely fine. Aiming to hold the event in a fancy restaurant? Smart suits for men and elegant dresses for women are the best choices. Dreaming of a relaxed buffet-style brunch, maybe? Awesome, ask your guests to wear something more casual. Either way, make sure to address all the necessary information about the desired attire on your invitation.
@chelseageephotography, @galvanlondon
Are parting gifts needed?
That’s a tricky question. Gift-giving during a post-wedding brunch has its pros and cons. Yes, it’s incredibly sweet to thank your guests for coming to watch your nuptials and all. But, let’s face it, most of your guests will already be fully packed for their departure, so additional gifts may cause inconvenience.
Farewell brunch, however, is a good opportunity to bring the wedding favors that were accidentally left by the guests the night before. This means that brunch attendees who forgot their gifts will have a chance to get them back.
