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EXPERT ADVICE | The wedding celebration begins long before the wedding itself. Enjoy each opportunity to revel in the love and support of family and friends.

TRENDING | Many couples are choosing a destination weekend wedding offering not only the typical welcome dinner and brunch, but planning more weekend activities all around for their guests. This can include area attractions such as wine tastings, brewery tours, kayaking, canoeing, boat cruises or even fun sporting games.

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PHOTOS: URBAN ANCHOR PHOTOGRAPHY, TIM FITCH PHOTOGRAPHY, JAS MCDANIEL PHOTOGRAPHY

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PRE WEDDINGENGAGEMENT PARTY: Traditionally hosted by the parents soon after the engagement. Occasionally, the parents of the bride and groom will host the party together, but more often separate parties are held. It is a convenient way for parents to introduce their child’s fiancé to family and friends and can also be a good way for the parents of the couple to meet if they have not already done so.

SHOWERS: Showers are given by any friend or relative who wants to do something special for the couple. Customarily, the immediate family of the bride and groom do not host a shower, because it is seen as asking for gifts. Often, the honor attendant and bridesmaids host a shower. Since the shower is always given by someone other than the bride, registry information may be included with the invitation.

BRIDESMAIDS’ LUNCHEON: The maids’ luncheon (or tea) is either given by the bridesmaids as a “farewell” to the bride or hosted by the bride herself. This luncheon may take place in a home or restaurant, wherever the bride and her ladies can take time to get together. The bride often gives her ladies their wedding mementos at this time, schedules final dress fittings, and just enjoys their company.

BACHELOR/ETTE PARTY: These very casual gatherings emphasize having fun, unwinding and celebrating the wedding. Bachelor/ette parties often incorporate a theme and can include attending a sporting event, going to a comedy club, or having a shopping excursion to Chicago or the Mall of America. Some enjoy activities such as laser tag, paintball, gambling, golfing, bowling, or even camping.

WEDDING BREAKFAST: This wedding day breakfast is hosted by a close friend or neighbor for out-of-town guests. Simple breakfast foods, coffee, and juice are just as acceptable as an extravagant breakfast buffet. This is an ideal time to remind people of the day’s schedule. The bride, groom, and their families may be present for the occasion if they choose to, but are not expected to attend.

THE REHEARSAL DINNER: Held immediately after the rehearsal, this meal can be as simple or elaborate as the host wishes without upstaging the wedding itself. Eat out so no immediate family members have to entertain the night before the wedding. Traditionally, the groom’s parents are responsible for the cost of the rehearsal dinner, but a godparent, friend, or member of the bride’s family may also carry the honor of hosting. The guest list includes the bride and groom’s immediate family, attendants, ceremony officiant (and spouse), and any out-of-town guests, family or friends you or the host wish to invite.

See pages 131-133 for a list of Reception & Rehearsal Dinner Venues.

PHOTOS: TWIG & OLIVE PHOTOGRAPHY, ILANA NATASHA PHOTOGRAPHY, ANN GORGEN PHOTOGRAPHY

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POST WEDDING AFTER PARTY

A casual affair with friends at an after party in the hotel bar, specially created lounge, or other nearby place ensures you are able to celebrate with your nearest & dearest. Relax in the casual atmosphere, munch on snacks, and enjoy the presence of your best friends.

BRIDAL BRUNCH

This gathering is held the day of or the day after the wedding and gives the bride an opportunity to visit with out-of-town relatives she might not see for a very long time. The brunch is a thoughtful way to include family members in the celebration and to build relationships for the future.

GIFT OPENING PARTY

This small gathering usually only includes the bride and groom’s families and members of the bridal party. More often than not, gifts are opened the day after the wedding or soon after the newlyweds return from the honeymoon.

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