If you are getting married on a Saturday night, you may want to throw a Sunday brunch for family, close friends and out-of-town guests.
Brunch is a combination of breakfast and lunch so anything is appropriate, says chef Dani Plant.
But first things first: pick a venue. Dani suggests choosing somewhere central and familiar or at the hotel you recommended to out-of-town guests.
Lifestyle expert Janette Ewen suggests keeping it simple since everyone will be tired from the wedding celebration. Consider having a garden party if it’s in the summer and play games like croquet and keep it mellow, she says. In winter, gather around a fire and play board games, she adds.
Then, pick a time and a menu. Dani suggests starting around 10 a.m. “It might be easiest to make it a serve-yourself buffet-style brunch with something specific like an omelette station or waffle bar to accommodate your out-of-towner travel times.” You could also do a salad bar with lots of toppings that could be prepped ahead of time.
If you host the brunch at home – say your mother’s or an aunt’s – consider a buffet-style brunch that will allow your guests to drop in, schmooze and eat. “Create a menu that honours the family of the bride and groom by making recipes that are special to the family,” says Dani. Label the dishes “Grandma May’s Famous Scones” or “Aunt Gayle’s French Toast Casserole” to create a personalized touch.
Janette prefers pushing the time of the party to 11:30 a.m. to let guests sleep in. She reminds brides to relax at the brunch. “Just come to spend time with your guests. Keep it stress free so you can be the ultimate hostess.”
And if you’re looking for parting gifts to thank friends for coming, send people home with homemade cookies or jams.
