Your wedding day is the grand finale—but the celebration can (and should!) begin long before the walk down the aisle. For our full-service couples, we always recommend a thoughtfully curated series of pre-wedding events to build anticipation, bring your loved ones together, and craft unforgettable moments leading up to the main event. With our guidance, we can help you bring all of these events to life!
Engagement Party
When to Host: 1–2 months after the proposal
Who Hosts: Traditionally the couple’s families, but anyone close to the couple can plan this party
An engagement party sets the tone for the wedding journey ahead. Whether you envision a candlelit rooftop soirée or a backyard dinner with soft jazz and custom cocktails, this event is the perfect first opportunity to celebrate your love story in style. It’s also a wonderful moment to introduce key people from both sides of the couple’s lives.
Bridal Shower (or Couple's Shower)
Bachelor/Bachelorette Getaways
When to Host: 1–2 months before the wedding
Who Hosts: Usually the wedding party
Think elevated, not cliché. For our couples, we often help coordinate chic vineyard escapes, wellness retreats, or private villa weekends. It’s about relaxing and connecting before the pace picks up.
Welcome Party
When to Host: The night before the wedding
Who Hosts: The couple or their families
Especially important for destination weddings or full wedding weekends, a welcome party is your chance to greet guests and kick things off with style. This can range from a casual beach bonfire with live music to a cocktail party with bespoke hors d’oeuvres. The design should feel intentional—but distinct from your wedding aesthetic.
Rehearsal Dinner
When to Host: Typically the night before the wedding, after the ceremony rehearsal
Who Hosts: Traditionally the groom’s family, but today it varies
This is often a more intimate, emotional evening with close family and friends. We love designing this event as a complement to the wedding day—not overshadowing it, but still elegant, heartfelt, and full of personality. Think candlelit dinners, heartfelt toasts, and a relaxed dress code that allows guests to unwind.
Farewell Brunch
When to Host: The morning after the wedding
Who Hosts: The couple or their families
Close out your celebration with a beautifully catered brunch—think coffee bars, mimosas, and light fare in a setting that lets guests linger, hug goodbye, and savor the final moments of the weekend.
Let's Make It Effortless
At Artful Events and Design, we specialize in curating unforgettable experiences—before, during, and after the wedding day. From concept to execution, we handle all the logistics, design, and coordination so you can enjoy every step of the journey.
Ready to craft your dream wedding weekend? Let’s start with your vision and build something beautiful together.
When to Host: 2–3 months before the wedding
Who Hosts: Typically a close friend or relative, with input from the couple
Today’s showers are all about personalization and elevated design. Think curated tablescapes, interactive stations (like a DIY bloom bar), and sentimental touches. For at-home inspiration, we love this guide from Redfin on hosting a beautiful bridal shower at home. It’s a lovely starting point for intimate, design-savvy celebrations that still feel luxurious.
For couples wanting to combine both partners’ loved ones in one event, we often recommend a co-ed garden party format, blending traditions with modern flair.
