When guests travel for your wedding, one day can feel short. Many destination weddings stretch over a weekend, with a few events that give everyone time to settle in, celebrate and say goodbye.
A typical shape
There's no set formula, but this is a common pattern for a three-day weekend.
- Arrival day: welcome drinks or a relaxed dinner, so people can meet before the big day
- Wedding day: the ceremony, then dinner and dancing
- The day after: a late brunch, a pool day or a beach party to wind down
Not everyone needs to come to everything
It's normal to invite different people to different events. A rehearsal dinner might be family and the wedding party, while the welcome drinks are for everyone. Make sure each guest only sees the events they're invited to, so nobody feels left out by accident.
Leave space
Guests have travelled a long way and want time to enjoy the place too. Leave gaps between events, and suggest a few things to do on their own: a walk, a beach, a good lunch spot.
Ask for replies event by event
Ask guests to reply to each event separately, with meal choices where you need them. You'll know exactly how many are coming to the welcome dinner and the brunch, not just the wedding.
Plan it all in one place
Marrythere connects your wedding website, guest list, RSVPs, events, rooms and guest payments. Setting it up is free.