As a planner myself, and a 2026 DIY bride, I know the struggles of wedding planning better than your average. So, I know I sound next-level crazy when I say: GO BIGGER! And I don't mean with decor or budget - I mean by extending the fun and really milking the wedding time period as much as possible. Not only will this really solidify your memories from that era, but TRUST that your guests will thank you!
Here are FIVE small gatherings that deserve just as much love as the big day itself:
- The Bridal Bash - Whether it's an engagement party or a bar crawl with your besties, this is supposed to be a celebration of that special moment when you said, "YES!" - emphasis on CELEBRATION. With that being said, it doesn't have to be brunch at the Ritz or The Plaza. We are seeing a lot more intimate gatherings these days which are geared towards what the couple genuinely enjoys, rather than impressing a bunch of people. Let this same idea revolve around your big day as well but think "wedding downsized" for your engagement celebration. Create a homemade breakfast spread for brunch with friends at home, or a barbecue with family in the back yard. Or if you want to get out and explore, have a picnic at a local park or botanical garden (BONUS POINTS if it's a non-profit!). This is your opportunity to celebrate with your special people in a low-pressure environment before the formalities begin - and even better, it doesn't have to require a reservation!
- The Elopement - Not into the big shebang? No problem! I'm an elopement girlie myself, but also a people pleaser (which means the wedding is a must in my case). However, if we had gone with our original plan and took it to the courthouse, I still planned on celebrating in some way with our loved ones. When we did the math, it would cost roughly the same amount to fly our bridal party and immediate family members to a select resort than to do everything we wanted with our wedding and a large guest count. Use that girl math and do with it what you will.
- The Bachelor/Bachelorette Party - Another one which we are seeing less and less of - but it doesn't have to go extinct! Although it seems the Bach phase has been burnt to the ground, we are seeing a ton of fun alternatives rise from the ashes. For instance, joint bach bashes are totally a thing now. Because ANYONE can pay for a gorgeous Airbnb when you split the cost ten different ways, am I right? This is especially great for destination weddings, so that you can have a "home base" for important guests and anyone in the wedding itself. Just always be sure to check with the host first to see if they have any party or max capacity regulations.
- The Welcome Dinner - Another great way to get your guests together before the big day without having to break the budget is a welcome event. I know I keep reiterating the idea of getting your guests together to celebrate BEFORE the big day, which is also for celebrating, so it may seem redundant or excessive. But trust me when I say that wedding time runs differently from regular day time. I can't tell you how many brides I've spoken to who have said their biggest wedding-day regret was not spending enough time with the people they invited. And truly, this is a very common thing because the bride especially is on CONSTANT from the moment they wake up that day until the moment they get to rest their sleepy little eyes that night. Offering a welcome dinner for your guests is a low-stress way to catch up with everyone before it's go-time. There's a reason why one of the biggest tips for your wedding day is to remember to eat - if you need a reminder to eat, do you think you'll remember to catch a laugh with Cousin Johnny who flew overseas to be there that day? I rest my case.
- The Anniversary - Last but certainly not least, don't forget to celebrate your anniversary. Celebrate your first-year accomplishments and spend time together in remembrance of your big day. Take a big bite of freezer-burnt cake and relish in the fact that you both made it through the pressures of planning and nailing a huge event together. Start a tradition or set a new goal as a couple - because this is truly just the beginning of your love story and many more years to come.
Let me know where you're at in your journey! I'm happy to join in and help, no matter what stage you're in - to assist with planning, or just to simply remind you that your budget doesn't get to determine the good memories you make. Only YOU get to do that.
So, get to it already and cheers, my friends!