How to Turn Your Wedding Day Into a Wedding Weekend

Even though weddings are unforgettable occasions, they can fly by in the blink of an eye. That’s why more and more couples are looking to make their big days even bigger by extending their celebrations into multi-day events. (In fact, this has become one of the most popular trends of the past year, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.) Now, many soon-to-weds are hosting multiple activities over the course of several days — from welcome parties and group tours to post-wedding brunches and farewell events. Looking to follow suit? The key to planning a successful wedding weekend is striking that perfect balance between more structured, formal events and casual, low-pressure gatherings.

The second most important tip? Building in small buffers — time alone, quiet moments with your partner, optional drop-in activities. This can go a long way in making the weekend feel more relaxed and less rushed. If you select one of Walters Wedding Estates’ all-inclusive venues as the backdrop to your big weekend, you will find a myriad of spaces to accommodate your wedding-related events and parties. What’s more, several of our venues also offer on-site accommodations, making it that much easier for you to make the most of every last minute with your loved ones. Here, our experts share their top tips on extending the celebration at our venues — plus some thoughtful additions to make your guests feel extra special.

Friday – Welcome and Pre-Wedding Fun

Morning

If you’re hosting a Saturday wedding, chances are, your out-of-town guests are going to arrive on Friday — which means they will need some time to unpack and get settled into their accommodations for the weekend. The best way to leave a warm first impression? Surprise them with a thoughtfully curated welcome bag stocked with a wedding program, travel must-haves, and perhaps even some locally made goodies. (In fact, according to Brides.com, “welcome bags have become increasingly popular in recent years, and while they are in no way required, they are a thoughtful way to thank your guests for being part of your celebration.)

Afternoon

Incorporating wellness into weddings is a trend that’s been gaining momentum this year — and for good reason. A little self-care can go a long way in reducing your cortisol levels and making you feel refreshed for your big day, so plan a wellness-focused activity that you and your wedding party might enjoy. Gather your nearest and dearest for a low-intensity yoga class or a soul-nourishing meditation session. Alternatively, whisk your group away to a local spa for a couple of hours and let your stress melt away with a head-to-toe pampering session. A leisurely group hike or bike ride is also a great way to get an endorphin boost before the weekend festivities begin.

Evening

After you’ve de-stressed and unknotted your muscles, get ready for your pre-ceremony run-through and rehearsal dinner. This will give you a chance to practice for the big moment and clear up any last-minute details. Next: the welcome party! Some couples may prefer to throw this kick-off event after their rehearsal dinner, while others may choose to go straight into the welcome gathering, which is typically open to a broader group than just the wedding party. Whether it’s a rooftop affair at a local cocktail bar or a bonfire with s’mores and hot chocolate, a welcome party can be as formal or casual as you’d like — and that’s the beauty of it. Not only does it set the tone for the weekend, but it also gives you more face time with your loved ones, and helps break the ice before the big day, especially for guests who may not know each other.

Saturday — The Big Day

Morning

Your wedding day is finally here, and preparations are underway. Your first stop for the day is likely going to be hair and makeup. Word to the wise: Set an early start time to ensure you don’t feel rushed and are able to properly fete the day ahead with your wedding party — in matching pajamas and with flutes of bubbly in hand. Don’t forget: Getting ready can be an hours-long process, especially if there’s a photo session involved. That’s why it’s important to include some food options to nibble on in your getting-ready suite. Think: easy-to-eat, mess-free finger snacks that will provide your and your wedding party some much-needed sustenance and energy.

Afternoon

The main event begins with the anticipated walk down the aisle, followed by the long-awaited vow exchange, and of course, your first kiss! Once you’re officially declared as newlyweds, it’s time for everyone to let loose and celebrate — first, with an elevated cocktail hour. Across Walters Wedding Estates’ many venues, you will find no shortage of sprawling terraces, blooming gardens, and cozy lounges to host this post-ceremony interlude. (Looking for tips on how to turn your cocktail hour into a wow-worthy event in its own right? Take a look at these fun-filled activities and food and beverage additions to transform your cocktail hour.)

Evening

After wrapping up your first photo session as a newly-married couple, invite your guests to move into the reception space. Walters Wedding Estates’ portfolio runs the gamut from ornate, European-inspired mansions to rustic-chic barns and nature-enveloped dining halls. No matter which venue you select, your reception will be an exquisite affair — complete with exceptional entertainment, signature cocktails, and delicious fare. The cherry on top? A stunning multi-tiered custom cake designed by the Jenny Layne Bakery. To keep energy levels up, Walters Wedding Estates even offers late-night snack options. Think: cheesy quesadillas, smoked brisket sliders, street tacos, double chocolate brownies, and more. Not ready to end the day quite yet? That’s what the after-party is for. Celebrate until the wee hours of the morning at a nearby lounge or outdoor terrace.

Sunday — Farewell and Wind-Down

Morning

The wedding day itself is a whirlwind; you’re often surrounded by a lot of people, often from different parts of your life — some you haven’t seen in years. It’s OK if you don’t get a chance to say “thank you” (or even “hello”) to everyone. To get a little more face time with your guests, set up a farewell brunch for the morning after your big day. A post-nuptial brunch gives you a more casual setting to truly connect with out-of-town attendees who took time off and traveled just to be there for you. Although there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to a farewell brunch, food is generally expected! Whether it’s a sit-down meal or a more casual drop-in event, coffee (or tea) is a must, especially after a long night. You can also treat your guests to a mimosa station and a brunch spread with pancakes, hash browns, mini quiches, and all the classics.

Afternoon

While some guests may have to rush off to catch a flight after brunch, for others, it may not be goodbye just yet. Having a few relaxed wind-down activities planned can keep the momentum going without feeling like you’re hosting yet another event. Gather your closest few and head out on a gentle, low-pressure stroll to explore a nearby town. Stop for ice cream, coffee, or even some window shopping. For something a little more structured (but still laid-back), take your guests on a wine-tasting tour. Many Walters Wedding Estates venues are located in the Texas Hill Country, which boasts an impressive number of wineries and is considered to be one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the U.S.

Evening

As your wedding weekend draws to a close, you and your guests will likely need some alone time to pack and mentally reset before checking out Monday morning. If you’re hosting your wedding festivities at one of Walters Wedding Estates’ venues with on-site accommodations, you can give your friends and family the opportunity to stop by for their final goodbyes. If you’re feeling up for it, put on your softest pajamas and hunker down for a cozy movie night with your inner circle — or just your significant other. Create space to reflect about the weekend and the incredible moments that you shared together at Walters Wedding Estates.