The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a Post-Wedding Brunch

Post-Wedding Brunch Ideas

A post-wedding brunch is the perfect way to wrap up your wedding weekend and spend a little extra time with your closest family and friends before heading off on your honeymoon. 

Many wedding guests travel long distances to attend the celebrations. For this reason, it is becoming increasingly popular to host a post wedding brunch prior to the bride & groom heading off for their honeymoon. This gives those who traveled long distances a bit more time with the couple – which is the reason they made the trip. It is a great way to show those who made a little extra effort, how important they are to you.

Whether you’re planning an elegant affair or a laid-back gathering, here’s everything you need to know to host the perfect post-wedding brunch.

 

 

 

Choosing the Right Venue

Your venue will set the tone for your brunch. Here are some popular options:

• Hotel Ballroom – Convenient if many guests are staying there. If you are using a caterer for your wedding, hire them to provide a light continental breakfast the next morning.

• Restaurant – Hold it at a local breakfast spot. If you choose, you can indicate on the invite that it is a pay-your-own-way affair. Be sure to schedule with the restaurant ahead of time.

• Backyard or Private Home – Cozy, intimate, and budget-friendly. If the group is small enough, hold it at a family members home. It could be as simple as ordering pastries from a local bakery and serving fresh fruit. 

• Park or Garden Brunch – Ideal for a relaxed outdoor celebration.

• Airbnb or Vacation Rental – Great for an extended stay with close friends and family.

Delicious Brunch Menu Ideas

Your menu should be easy to enjoy and can be as simple or extravagant as you want it to be. Consider these options:

Buffet-Style Brunch

• Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage

• Pastries, muffins, and bagels with spreads

• Fresh fruit and yogurt parfaits

Build-Your-Own Stations

• Bagel Bar: Assorted bagels, cream cheese, smoked salmon, toppings

• Omelet Station: Eggs made to order with various toppings

• Waffle or Pancake Bar: Toppings like syrup, fruit, whipped cream

• Mimosa & Coffee Bar: Sparkling wine, juices, gourmet coffee selections

Themed Brunch Ideas

• Southern-Style: Biscuits, gravy, fried chicken, sweet tea

• French Café: Croissants, quiche, espresso

• Mexican Fiesta: Chilaquiles, breakfast tacos, horchata

Drinks and Signature Cocktails

Pair your brunch menu with refreshing drinks:

• Classic Brunch Drinks: Mimosas, Bloody Marys, Bellinis

• Non- Alcohol Options: Sparkling lemonade, infused water, iced coffee

• Fun Additions: Mocktails, specialty coffee drinks

Creating the Perfect Vibes

• Casual Elegance: Fresh flowers, simple table settings, candles

• Themed Decor Ideas: Rustic, tropical, vintage, or boho-chic touches

• Personal Touches: A slideshow of wedding photos, leftover wedding decor, thank-you notes for guests

Entertainment and Activities

• Relaxed Vibes: Acoustic music or a curated brunch playlist

• Fun Touches: Lawn games, a guestbook alternative (advice cards, Polaroid photo wall)

• Thank-You Speeches: A heartfelt moment from the couple to express gratitude

Budget Friendly Brunch Tips

• Host at home or in a park to save on venue costs.

• Offer a self-serve buffet instead of plated meals.

• Use leftover wedding florals and décor.

Additional Tips

• Timing: Typically held the morning after the wedding (10 AM–12 PM). Everyone probably needs a little extra time to sleep after your amazing wedding!

• Invitations: Details can be included on the wedding website, included with the wedding invitation or sent as a separate invite.

• Guest List: Keep it small—immediate family, out-of-town guests, bridal party, and close friends. Make the guest list up of people you really want to spend a little extra time with.

A post-wedding brunch is the perfect way to extend the celebration and create even more memories with your loved ones. With a little planning, you can host a brunch that is as meaningful and enjoyable as the wedding itself!

Your may even want to consider a Brunch Wedding!

Check out these great post-wedding brunch ideas from Martha Stewart!

Image Credits: Savory Cuisine Catering