Few events can set the tone for your wedding celebrations better than a wedding welcome party.
Traditional rehearsal dinners can be formal and intimate. They typically include only close family and the bridal party. On the other hand, a welcome party is a casual event that can feel more inclusive. Your guests all come together to mix, mingle, and ease into the festivities.
So, what is a welcome party for a wedding, and how do you plan one that everyone will enjoy? Here’s your ultimate guide to creating a memorable welcome party your guests will rave about.
What is a Welcome Party for a Wedding?
The couple usually hosts the wedding welcome party. It takes place the evening before the wedding and sets the stage for days of celebration to come. It’s a great way to greet and thank guests—especially those traveling from afar. The party provides a chance to bring together friends and family in a less formal setting than a rehearsal dinner. It also gives you more time to mingle with your guests before the big day, as wedding days can feel like a whirlwind!
Tips for Planning a Wedding Welcome Party
Choose the Right Venue
Planning the best wedding welcome party starts with choosing the right venue. Consider a location that matches your wedding style and is close to where the wedding will be. If your wedding venue has an on-site location to host the welcome party, that is the best option. Having hotel rooms available on-site is another added bonus! This allows your guests to easily return to their rooms to relax after the party and a long day of travel.
Make sure the venue can accommodate your guest count. However, take into account that not every invited guest will be able to attend the welcome party. Some guests may arrive later, or they might miss it altogether if they are still traveling in. Expect some variance between your wedding guest list and your welcome party count.
Communicate Dress Code
It’s also important to communicate the dress code clearly in your invitations. Wedding attire can be a point of stress for guests, as they may not know the right level of formality. Providing information for each wedding event throughout the weekend lets guests feel prepared.
Food & Beverage and Decor
A welcome party normally does not include a sit-down dinner. But, consider offering light food and drinks, especially as guests may have had a long day of travel. If you don’t want to break the bank, offer a spread of canapes or cover the first round of drinks.
Incorporating a few decor elements is a great way to tie together the welcome party and the wedding. Include a couple of flower arrangements or a custom welcome sign that matches the theme. This can give your guests a fun sneak peek of the decor for the next day!
Other Considerations
A wedding welcome party could also be the first time many of your friends and family meet in person. Help break the ice by incorporating fun elements to get your guests mingling. Think lawn games or a giant crossword puzzle with trivia questions about the couple. This provides an easy conversation starter!
Finally, make sure to schedule the event at the right time. Don’t schedule it too early in the day, as people may still be on their way. But don’t stay out too late, either, as you’ll want everyone to get rest for the wedding the next day! An early evening event usually gives guests ample time to arrive and settle in.
Host Your Welcome Party at ICONA Resorts
ICONA Resorts provides several options for couples seeking NJ beach wedding venues. ICONA has some of the most beautiful beach wedding venues on the Jersey Shore. There are also several venues for a memorable welcome party for a wedding.
Star Beach Bar at ICONA Diamond Beach has scenic ocean views in a palm tree-lined setting right on the beach. The menu features a variety of specialty cocktails and shareable snacks that are sure to get the party going. You can also rent private cabanas that include fire pits for a relaxed spot to gather with loved ones.
The Sandbar Village at ICONA Avalon is another great choice for a wedding welcome party. Here, you can mingle with guests around the bonfire pits or reserve cabanas for your group. The relaxed, carefree vibe is a great fit for a wedding welcome party.
At either location, guests can enjoy the convenience of staying in the on-site hotel rooms. With convenient accommodations, your guests can head right to bed after the party. You won’t have to worry about transportation, and everyone can wake up refreshed and ready to celebrate the next day!
Start Your Wedding Celebrations Off Right
A well-planned welcome party is the perfect way to kick off your wedding celebrations. From choosing the right venue to planning fun activities, every detail helps set the tone. Create an unforgettable experience for your guests from start to finish.
Contact ICONA Resorts to start planning your party at one of our iconic beachside venues.
