What Is a Wedding Welcome Party (and Why You Might Want One)
Weddings are turning into more than just a single-day celebration, they're shifting into weekend-long experiences! As professionals in the wedding industry, we’ve seen a huge increase of more and more couples opting to add on a welcome party to their wedding weekend. It’s a thoughtful, festive way to bring everyone together early and start the celebration on a high note. Let’s break down what a welcome party is, where to have one, and who to invite.
Photographer: Alexis May
What Is a Welcome Party?
A welcome party is a pre-wedding event that typically takes place the night before the wedding, either before or after the rehearsal dinner. Some couples opt for a welcome party in lieu of a rehearsal dinner! The purpose? To warmly greet and celebrate with all of your wedding guests, whether they’re traveling from out of town or from down the street.
It’s a relaxed and festive way to connect with your guests before the wedding day begins. As the couple, you get the chance to mix, mingle, and catch up with guests, without the pressure of sticking to a wedding day timeline.
Photographer: Alexis May
Where to Have Your Welcome Party
The best location for your welcome party depends on your wedding style, guest list, and budget. Here are a few popular options:
Hotel rooftop or lobby bar – Convenient for out-of-town guests staying on-site.
Local brewery or winery – Casual and charming with built-in atmosphere.
Airbnb or rental house – Great for an intimate crowd with space to gather.
Restaurant or private room – Easy planning and delicious food.
Backyard or beach bonfire – Perfect for a low-key, cozy vibe.
Photographer: Alexis May
What Do You Do at a Welcome Party?
A welcome party is all about setting a welcoming and fun tone, think cocktail hour vibes with an open house feel. Guests typically come in cocktail or casual attire, depending on your style, but it should feel a step below the formality of the wedding day. There’s no need for a strict timeline, instead, offer drinks, light bites or passed apps, and give everyone a chance to mingle and settle in. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to connect with your guests before the main event kicks off.
Photographer: Alexis May
Who Is Invited?
Unlike the rehearsal dinner, which is typically reserved for the wedding party and close family, the welcome party is often open to all wedding guests, especially those who have traveled to celebrate with you. It’s a gracious way to say thank you and help everyone feel included from the start.
Photographer: Alexis May
A welcome party is the perfect way to start your wedding weekend on the right foot. It’s all about creating space to celebrate, connect, and soak in the love from your favorite people before the big day arrives. If you’re looking to make your wedding weekend extra special, a welcome party might be just what you need!
Need help planning a welcome party for your wedding weekend? At Before the Vows, we specialize in more than just the wedding day, we’re here to help bring your entire wedding weekend to life. Reach out to us today so we can make your wedding weekend unforgettable.
