Wedding Weekend Events: What’s Necessary and What’s Extra?

Your guests are literally going the extra mile to be a part of your wedding day, so why not make their entire weekend a memorable experience? We all know that your wedding day is the main event, but what about the other festivities surrounding it? How many wedding events should you actually plan to keep your guests entertained in Kansas City all weekend? From a traditional rehearsal dinner to an over-the-top send-off brunch, there are so many opportunities to celebrate and make memories with your loved ones.

Depending on how many weddings you’ve been to and how well you’ve known each couple, you’ve likely attended the most traditional and common wedding events during a wedding weekend – the rehearsal dinner, the wedding day itself, and potentially a farewell brunch the day after. Most couples will have a rehearsal dinner and, of course, the main event – the wedding day. Any event outside of those two is a bonus to spend more time with the family and friends you brought together to celebrate your union.

The Rehearsal Dinner: The First of the Wedding Events

Traditionally, the night before the wedding is reserved for the rehearsal dinner, a must for VIPs. The invite list should include immediate family, the wedding party + their dates, and potentially out-of-town guests (depending on budget and space). If you’re hosting a destination wedding or have a lot of out-of-town guests, consider a smaller, more intimate rehearsal dinner with just immediate family and the wedding party.

The Wedding Day

Of course, the reason you’ve gathered all of your guests is the wedding day itself! From the emotional ceremony to the incredible dance party, ensure the key elements reflect your love story and personality. Consider your guests’ perspective, especially regarding timing. Planning a big gap between the ceremony and the reception? Or maybe a shorter reception? We’ll explore some options below to keep the celebration going and entertain your guests all weekend.

The Farewell Brunch

As the wedding festivities wind down, why not bid farewell to your guests with a lovely little brunch? It’s a chance to gather one last time and say goodbye with full bellies and happy hearts. Whether it’s a cozy brunch at McLain’s or a lavish spread at your reception venue, a farewell brunch is the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable weekend, with a touch of Kansas City hospitality.

Extra Wedding Events: Let’s Add Some Flair to Your Wedding Weekend!

Now, let’s add some extra wedding events to make your weekend even more fun! These additional events aren’t obligatory (let’s be real, nothing is), but they can take your celebration to the next level:

• Wedding Party Luncheon: Show some love to your squad with a special pre-wedding luncheon. It’s a chance to pamper your crew, express your gratitude, and bond over laughter and tasty treats.
• Activities for Guests: Kansas City is having a moment, so take this chance to show off our lovely city! Have lunch at your favorite BBQ joint, plan a First Friday meetup in the Crossroads after the rehearsal dinner, or schedule a tour of Arrowhead Stadium. Add an extra level of ease to your guests’ experience by pre-planning activities instead of only providing them with suggestions.
• Welcome Party: Embrace your out-of-town guests with a kickass welcome party. It’s a great way to break the ice, get everyone mingling, and set the tone for an epic wedding weekend. This is a great option if you have a lot of out-of-towners or are in a destination location where you’d prefer a smaller rehearsal dinner.
• After Party: Keep the party going long after the formalities end! An after-party is perfect for night owls who want to dance, laugh, and create unforgettable memories.

Remember, these extra wedding events aren’t necessary, but they certainly add a special touch. When planning your wedding weekend, aim for a balance that reflects your style, budget, and available time. It’s all about crafting a celebration that authentically represents you both, surrounded by love, joy, and some Kansas City flair.