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The end of the reception doesn’t mean that the party has to end. Many couples choose to keep the festivities going with an after party. Whether it’s small or large, here are nine mistakes to avoid when planning it.
Skipping the money talk.
Before you even start planning, you need to figure out who will be paying for this soiree, says Brandi Hamerstone of All Events Planned. If you and your groom can’t afford to pay for it, then you need to make it clear to guests that they will be paying for their own food and drinks. They can then decide what they want to do based on that answer so you'll want a good plan ahead of time.”
Continuing the reception's theme.
You don’t want to plan a continuation of the reception. Instead, you want the after party to have its own separate feel. “Get out of DJ/band mode and go with karaoke or a couple acoustic musicians for a more fun vibe,” says Richard O’Malley of The O’Malley Project. “And go with diner food small plates, disco fries, nachos, sliders, etc.—no more fancy food!”
Not making a guest list.
Get an idea of who will be coming by requesting an online RSVP, says Hamerstone. “This way you'll know if you are going to expect 20 people in your suite or if you'll need an entire lobby bar because 70 people will attend. Always know that the number won't stay firm though. Some will get tired and skip and others will end up energized and ready to continue late into the evening.”
Picking an out of the way location.
You don’t want guests to have to travel far for the after party--especially since they’ve probably been drinking during the reception. “It's important to make sure that the final venue of the night is easy to get to for your select guests,” says Renée Strauss of Wedaways.
Skimping on food.
Just because you served dinner at the reception doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for food at the after party. “This is a key part of the after-party,” says Hamerstone. “Let the hotel/bar or venue know that you'd like the kitchen to stay open or at least that you'd like some food options available. You don't want everyone to continue to drink without something to help combat severe sickness, or worse, total drunkenness.”
Not bringing a change of clothes.
Most brides will think that once the wedding reception is over that they will go back to the hotel and relax, but more often than not, the dress becomes uncomfortable half-way through the day’s festivities, says Betty Robinson-Owens of Your Turn Weddings & Events.“Having a comfortable change of clothes could make all the difference. Don’t forget some comfortable, stylish shoes as well.”
Giving minimal details.
Will there be a barn fire? Going to the beach? Will it require a change of clothing? Make sure you give guests all the info they need with a fun invite, such as a video or a clever poem, says Adrianne Harris of Blessed Events NY.
