Planning a wedding weekend in SoCal? It’s more than just one magical day! Imagine celebrating with friends and family for an entire weekend of fun, bonding, and relaxation. From welcome parties to morning-after brunches, a wedding weekend is a unique way to make your big day feel like a mini-vacation for everyone.
Factors to Consider
When planning a wedding weekend in Southern California, a few key factors can shape the events:
Venue Location: Where you’re getting married can open up different options, like outdoor hikes or cozy indoor activities.
Guest List Size: More people might mean larger venues, whereas smaller groups can opt for intimate, tailored activities.
Wedding Day and Time: Are you having a Friday evening wedding? A Saturday afternoon ceremony? The timing will help set the pace.
Budget: Think about what fits within your wedding budget. Some activities are cost-free, while others may require a bit more planning.
Friday Fun: Set the Tone with a Welcome Party
Kick things off by hosting a relaxed welcome party on Friday. A welcome party is a fantastic way to introduce guests who may not know each other. This can be as fancy or casual as you like. Some ideas:
Rooftop Cocktails: Start with a relaxed evening with drinks on a rooftop, overlooking SoCal’s skyline.
Sunset Beach Bonfire: If you’re near water, bonfires are perfect for a cozy evening with s’mores and acoustic guitar tunes.
Local Brewery/Winery Tour: Keep it casual with a tour of local breweries or wineries if that’s more your style.
Outdoor Movie Night: Rent a projector, grab blankets, and show a romantic comedy or your favorite classic.
Mini Golf or Bowling Night: Great for a casual evening with a playful twist, allowing everyone to feel at ease.
Saturday Morning Adventures
Depending on the time of your ceremony, why not give guests a taste of SoCal? Just keep timing in mind to ensure everyone has enough prep time before the ceremony.
Hiking or Biking Excursion: Head out on a scenic hike or a casual bike ride, ideal for outdoor-loving groups.
Morning Yoga or Pilates: A relaxing morning yoga session can help calm pre-wedding jitters.
Pickleball Tournament: For sporty groups, a pickleball tournament adds a bit of friendly competition and laughter.
Craft or Cooking Class: A pottery, painting, or cooking class is perfect for guests who want a hands-on experience.
Post-Ceremony Celebration and Late-Night Fun
After the vows, it’s time to party! But if your group loves a good adventure, consider a few late-night activities:
Photo Scavenger Hunt: After the reception, organize a scavenger hunt for memorable pictures around town.
Private After-Party Lounge: Book a late-night lounge or karaoke room where guests can keep celebrating.
Silent Disco: Hand out headphones and let guests dance to their choice of music in a unique, fun way.
Sunday Morning Brunch or Relaxation
After all that dancing, Sunday is the time to unwind. A post-wedding brunch or a few relaxation options give everyone a chance to recharge and share memories.
Casual Brunch: Host a laid-back brunch at a cozy café, allowing guests to gather and reminisce over coffee and pancakes.
Poolside Chill: If your venue or hotel has a pool, let guests relax poolside.
Spa Day: Treat yourself and your guests to massages, facials, or just a day at the spa. It’s a perfect way to relax post-wedding!
Customizing Your SoCal Wedding Weekend
Your wedding weekend is entirely about what you and your partner love. Whether you’re into adventure, chill vibes, or a mix, there’s something for every style in Orange County. Keep in mind guest comfort, your budget, and how you want the weekend to flow. Adding these personal touches will make it feel special and true to who you are.
Have Complete Weddings + Events in Orange County Document Your Wedding Weekend
Whether you’re planning a cozy, intimate weekend or an epic multi-day celebration, let Complete Weddings + Events bring your vision to life. With our expert coordination, photography, videography, DJ, and photo booth services, we’re here to turn every moment into a cherished memory for you and your guests.
Contact us to learn more about our services, or visit our blog for endless wedding inspiration and tips!