The Perfect Plan for an After-Party

Sure, some couples can’t wait to jump into their jammies and pass out after their I do’s, but many never want the night to end. Reserving tables or a room at a great restaurant that stays open late is always popular, says Katherine Jameson, owner of Katherine’s Event Planning in Bar Harbor, Maine. But if your finances and/or location allow it, she also loves the idea of renting a boat for a midnight cruise or getting cozy around a fire pit. Located in party-central itself - Las Vegas - Green Orchid Events mostly works with destination wedding couples who definitely want to get the most out of their trip. Senior event manager Angelica McDonnell says newlyweds have gathered in a luxury suite, hit up nightclubs, rented out a small ballroom to create their own nightclub and hosted bowling tournaments. Based in Austin, Texas (aka, the Live Music Capital of the World), Michelle Bromley of Allison’s Events by Michelle also works with numerous destination pairs who usually want to organize a little late-night fun. Her clients often congregate at chic bars or enjoy a show on Austin’s famed Sixth Street. She has also contemplated arranging a “Love-in” - guests hand over their keys, change into pajama attire and party until the sun comes up. But good times aside, you’ll want to take elderly and underage guests who might be interested in joining into account before deciding what to do, warns McDonnell. That said, most folks will be drinking - a lot. “You need to feed them to soak up the wedding alcohol and get them ready for more,” Bromley says. Serve local favorites (pizza, burgers, tacos, hoagies, doughnuts, etc.) or fun late-night snacks like gourmet grilled cheese and milk and cookies. And be sure to have a cab service on call, adds Jameson, or rent out a trolley or bus to shuttle imbibing guests back and forth. (c) CTW Features