Planning a weekend wedding can be an incredible way to celebrate your union while spending extended time with loved ones. However, coordinating a wedding that spans an entire weekend comes with unique challenges and considerations. To ensure your weekend wedding is memorable and stress-free, here are the key things to consider during the planning process.
1. Budgeting for a Weekend Wedding
A weekend wedding often means hosting multiple events, such as a welcome dinner, the wedding ceremony, a reception, and possibly a farewell brunch. With these additional gatherings, it’s important to create a comprehensive budget that accounts for all aspects of the weekend.
Key budget considerations:
- Venue rental for multiple days
- Catering for each event
- Accommodations for guests or bridal party (if you’re covering costs)
- Entertainment and activities beyond the wedding day
- Transportation if events are in different locations
Establishing a clear budget early on can help you prioritize your spending and avoid unexpected costs.
2. Choosing the Perfect Venue
The venue is a cornerstone of your weekend wedding, as it will likely host most of the weekend’s events. When selecting a venue, consider:
- Capacity: Ensure the venue can accommodate your guest list comfortably.
- Lodging: Opt for venues that offer on-site accommodations or have nearby hotels to make it easy for guests.
- Amenities: Check if the venue has options for hosting different events like a welcome party, rehearsal dinner, or brunch.
- Exclusive Use: Some venues offer exclusive use for the entire weekend, allowing a more private and intimate experience.
Choosing a venue that can host multiple events simplifies logistics and ensures guests are comfortable throughout the weekend.
3. Creating a Weekend Itinerary
A well-planned itinerary keeps your guests engaged and helps them make the most of the weekend. Typical weekend wedding schedules may include:
- Friday Night: Welcome dinner or casual gathering.
- Saturday: Wedding ceremony, reception, and after-party.
- Sunday: Farewell brunch or group activity.
Ensure that the itinerary leaves room for rest and free time, allowing guests to explore the area or enjoy some downtime.
4. Guest Accommodations and Travel
Since guests will be attending for the entire weekend, it’s essential to consider their accommodations and travel logistics.
- Reserve a block of rooms at a local hotel to simplify accommodations.
- Provide transportation between venues if events are spread out.
- Offer a guide or welcome bag with information about local attractions, dining options, and weekend events.
Making guests feel taken care of will enhance their overall experience and enjoyment.
5. Planning Entertainment and Activities
A weekend wedding offers a unique opportunity to create memorable experiences beyond the wedding day. Consider planning activities such as:
- Wine tastings, hiking, or group outings
- Lawn games or casual outdoor gatherings
- Guided tours or local excursions
Providing optional activities allows guests to customize their experience while ensuring there’s always something to do.
6. Catering and Menu Planning
With multiple events to plan, catering becomes a crucial element. Consider offering diverse menu options to keep things fresh and exciting. For example:
- Welcome Dinner: Casual BBQ, food trucks, or themed cuisine.
- Wedding Reception: Formal plated dinner or buffet.
- Farewell Brunch: Light breakfast or brunch buffet.
Also, be mindful of dietary restrictions and preferences to accommodate all guests.
7. Managing the Logistics
Planning a multi-day event involves detailed logistics. Hiring a wedding planner experienced in weekend weddings can greatly ease the stress. They can assist with:
- Coordinating vendors
- Managing the event timeline
- Handling unexpected issues
A dedicated point of contact for the weekend allows you to enjoy the celebrations without stress.
8. Creating Lasting Memories
Finally, a weekend wedding provides ample opportunities to capture memories. Consider hiring a photographer to cover the entire weekend, not just the ceremony. Additionally:
- Set up a photo booth for casual fun photos.
- Provide a guestbook or memory station where guests can leave messages.
- Capture candid moments during group activities or excursions.
Final Thoughts
Planning a weekend wedding requires careful thought and organization, but the reward is an unforgettable experience shared with your closest friends and family. By considering budget, logistics, and guest experience, you can create a seamless and memorable weekend wedding celebration that will be cherished for years to come.
Jo Pyman is an award-winning UK-based Wedding planner as well as the founder of One Curious Dream Wedding Planning Agency who plan and coordinate weddings throughout the UK and overseas.
If you’d like to enquire further about my wedding planning services, I welcome you to book in a free, no-obligation consultation here.
Alternatively, you can reach me at [email protected] or 0800 772 0765.
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