Planning a Post-Elopement Party

While elopements can be an intimate way to tie the knot, it can feel like you aren’t truly celebrating your nuptials. A post-elopement party gives you the best of both worlds. If you still want to include family and friends on your special day, you might consider throwing a spin on a traditional reception after saying “I do!”

What is a Post-Elopement Party?

A post-elopement party is exactly what you would think - a celebration that occurs after you elope to bring family and friends together in honour of your marriage. The after-party can be as unique to each couple as the elopement itself. It’s a win-win for those who want to share their newlywed bliss with loved ones without overwhelming their wedding experience by hosting a big party on the day-of.

Why Should You Have a Post-Elopement Party?

Planning a party or a reception after eloping isn’t a requirement, and it’s certainly okay to skip it. But if you want to sprinkle in some extra joy after walking down the aisle, a post-elopement party is a great way to do it. Since it’s not a traditional wedding reception, you have complete freedom to commemorate your marriage. There’s also no set timeline for when your post-elopement reception should take place. You could plan it for the day after your elopement or even a year later on your anniversary. Any excuse to celebrate sounds good to us!

If you’ve decided to plan a post-elopement party, you might be wondering where to start. We’ve come up with a step-by-step guide so you can make more memorable moments with less stress:

1.     Decide On Your Budget - Like your ceremony, your post-elopement party doesn’t have to be as expensive as a typical wedding reception. Decide what you want to spend, then choose the type of party that makes you and your wallet happy.

2.     Pick A Date - There’s no right or wrong amount of time between an elopement and a post-elopement party. Just keep in mind that scheduling the event immediately after you elope will change the way you celebrate and communicate the event to your friends and family.

3.     Book Your Venue - Your venue will make the biggest dent in your budget. Choose the venue based on your budget and vibe. If you missed the traditions on your big day, you could opt for a wedding-style reception or keep it cozy and casual with a unique Airbnb rental. 

4.     Send Your Invites - If you’ve kept your elopement a secret, your invitations can double as a wedding announcement and maybe include some photos to share the big news. If friends and family already know you eloped, send your invitations however you see fit.

5.     Prep For A Little Confusion - Eloping is still relatively new and, unfortunately, an often misunderstood way to get hitched. And even though grandma might be asking why she didn’t get invited to the “real wedding,” you don’t owe anyone a particular kind of experience. Usually, these requests come from a loving place. Set clear boundaries and celebrate however you want.

6.     Party! - Whether you’re donning your wedding attire for a second time or keeping it casual, welcome your guests and enjoy the party!

Post-Elopement Party Ideas

1.     Wedding-Style Reception - If you want all the wedding vibes without the big wedding stress, planning an elopement party at a formal venue is an awesome way to enjoy a day of glam with your loved ones.

2.     At Home - We can’t think of a better way to personalize your party than hosting it in your home (or family member’s home). You could even throw your elopement photos or videos up on the TV or projector to relive your special day with everyone.

3.     Destination – Take advantage of the opportunity to travel somewhere new. If you could go anywhere in the world, would you choose to celebrate your favourite person with your friends and family? We know we would.

4.     Restaurant – Picture your favourite local restaurant filled with your nearest and dearest enjoying your favourite foods. This is a great way to get together without putting too much effort into actually hosting – no cooking, cleaning, or decorating!

5. Airbnb – If you’re hosting a small-ish group, renting out an Airbnb might be ideal. Maybe a beach house, event-ready cabin, or lodge, there’s practically every imaginable environment to choose from.