All Things Beautiful, Ashley Pigott Events
Photography: La Dichosa, Pablo Laguia
A wedding is one of life’s biggest milestones—but what about the moments leading up to it? While traditional events like bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and bachelor or bachelorette parties are staples, they don’t have to be the only pre-wedding highlights. Why not shake things up with fresh ideas that turn the lead-up to your wedding into something just as memorable—leaving a lasting impression on both you and your guests? With insight from industry experts, we’ve rounded up eight unique activities designed to flip the script on typical pre-wedding celebrations and make every moment feel like an event in itself.
All Things Beautiful, Blonde & Blue
Photography: La Dichosa, Sarah Tonkin
An Exclusive Art Experience
An exclusive, private evening at an art gallery or museum provides the perfect prelude to the wedding weekend. Whether you share this intimate moment with your closest circle or enjoy it alone with your partner, this experience creates a memorable and meaningful connection. Charléss Coldon, the heart and soul of The Coda's Collective, a destination wedding planning agency, beautifully illustrates the experience: “Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through a curated collection of art, the gallery’s soft lighting casting a warm glow on each timeless piece. A private tour with a knowledgeable curator enriches the experience, offering an intimate connection to the works around you. Afterward, enjoy a cocktail reception in a secluded space within the gallery, surrounded by art and culture that resonate with your story.”
An Intimate Dinner with Your Own Private Chef
Sometimes, it’s the smaller gatherings that create the most meaningful memories before the wedding. Renowned luxury wedding planner, Branka Panici of Blonde & Blue shares her insights on crafting intimate moments that make a statement. "Instead of a formal sit-down dinner or large welcome party, couples can host an intimate, luxurious gathering where guests come together over an exclusive offering of oysters, caviar, and champagne. The couple can personally welcome their loved ones with a heartfelt toast, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With soft candlelight, a live string quartet or acoustic musician, and thoughtfully curated details—like handwritten notes at each place setting—this experience feels elegant, effortless, and deeply meaningful. The focus is on creating intimate moments of connection ahead of the wedding day, elevating the guest experience with sophistication and style."
For couples drawn to the idea of an intimate yet indulgent gathering, the private chef experience can be elevated with wine pairings, adding a cinematic yet deeply personal touch. "Lean into the high-end ingredients, the luxury of an exclusive chef, and a refined atmosphere—perhaps with nods to your favorite travel destinations or a meal that reflects your most treasured moments," suggests Charléss Coldon.
The Coda's Collective
Photography: Kristin Piteo, Ash Gabes
An Oceanfront Day Party
Hosting a day party at the start of your wedding weekend is a great way to kick off the festivities and let your guests relax, mingle, and get into the celebratory mood. Magdalena Zo. Żywicka of All Things Beautiful brings a refreshingly simple yet impactful take to pre-wedding fun: "Opting for a day party held the day before the wedding is a wonderful way to get guests into the party mood without risking the celebration going too late into the night—especially with the wedding the next day. Add to that a beach club setting with great music and drinks, and you’ve got yourself a fun event with a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing your guests to let loose and get to know each other better."
A Luxury Private Yacht Cruise
Few experiences feel as effortlessly luxurious as a private yacht cruise for a pre-wedding celebration. Set sail on open waters with your closest loved ones, indulging in panoramic views, gourmet bites, and expertly crafted signature cocktails. Whether you’re toasting at sunset or cruising through the day, the experience invites you to unwind in style. With the sea breeze in your hair and the world stretching out before you, it’s a fresh, refined way to step into this new chapter.
Villa Sant'Andrea, Peddy Oswaldt Delgado
Photography: Thomas Poulet, RMNE
A Relaxing Wellness Escape
In the days leading up to the wedding, giving yourselves the gift of relaxation can be just what you need. Be that a serene weekend getaway to a spa resort or a one-day detox experience, this is your chance to reset and recharge before the big day. "More couples are embracing the idea of a pre-wedding getaway focused on relaxation, connection, and mindfulness," notes Branka Panici. "It’s a perfect way to slow down and create lasting memories ahead of the big celebration."
Charléss Coldon echoes this sentiment, adding, "Before the big day, nothing feels more indulgent than a custom-curated wellness retreat. Imagine a day tailored entirely to relaxation: private yoga sessions crafted specifically for you and your partner, couples’ massages designed to melt away pre-wedding stress, and bespoke spa treatments that feel almost otherworldly."
A Stylish Tennis Match
For a pre-wedding activity that’s both dynamic and stylish, a friendly tennis game could be the ideal fit. "Consider hosting a little pre-wedding tennis tournament. It’s a perfect outlet for some friendly competition for those into the sport and a wonderful opportunity to pull off some chic, country club-inspired outfits while sipping wine and watching the game," suggests Magdalena Zo. Żywicka.
Ashley Pigott Events
Photography: Byrdie Mack, Pablo Laguia
A Romantic Wine Tasting Tour
There’s something undeniably romantic about a wine tasting tour—the endless rows of vineyards, the gentle clink of glasses, and the shared moments of discovery as you explore the stories behind each bottle. Together with your guests, you’ll uncover the artistry of winemaking, savor the subtle nuances of different flavors, and toast to the love that brings everyone together. More than a celebration of the two of you; it’s a heartfelt way to connect with the people who mean the most, creating memories that linger long after the last sip.
A Magical Outdoor Movie Night
An outdoor movie night is a charming and laid-back way to gather your closest friends and family for a pre-wedding celebration. Curate a lineup of your favorite wedding classics or films that carry special meaning for you as a couple. Add in popcorn, drinks, and snacks to create a laid-back vibe that encourages laughter and connection under the stars. The soft lighting, cozy seating, and a big screen set against the night sky create a magical atmosphere, offering a moment of calm and intimacy before the big day’s excitement takes over.
Brichs
Photography: Canela, Dias De Vino Y Rosas
