2 day or not 2 day? That is the question!!!

Do you really want a day 2?

So the first thing is, how do you cope with large numbers of people, including family over extended periods of time. Do you want to spend loads of time catching up with everyone and relaxing for an extra day, or does the idea of escaping after the big day appeal to you?  If you fall somewhere in between, consider opting for a really low key (practically secret) meet up in your local, which could just be 4 or 5 friends for a couple of drinks to chat about the day. It’s definitely worth doing something as the come down after the wedding can be intense.  As with all aspects of wedding planning, don’t do it because it’s popular, only do it if it sounds like something you really want to do.

Yes! we really want a day 2?

If you think you would like a more substantial day two, where you invite all or most of your guests back to eat the next day, here are some things to consider.

How may guests, realistically, will come back for a day two. If you have 200 guests you could probably expect somewhere between 100 to 150 guests to return. This is of course assuming you invite your entire guest list back, which is not necessary so don’t feel this is your only option. With such a big range in attendees, and less concrete RSVPS you need to speak to your venue or caterer about final numbers and how they manage these and how many meals you will need to order.

These numbers really depend on a number of things.  How far from home are your guests? If you are getting married and hosting your wedding locally, most people will swing by to join you for dinner on day two. However if your guests have traveled a considerable distance, the time and the day of the week will come into play.  If they have to book accommodation for an extra night however, this will mean if they say they are coming, they will turn up

How to gauge numbers

Saturday Wedding, Sunday BBQ

If people have work the next morning, don’t expect them all to be available for another night of partying as they will be concious of getting home. If your meal is planned for early in the day you could have people join you after they check out of their accommodation to eat before they head off. Close family and friends may take the Monday of and stay to have a repeat, and for some couples, this smaller selection is exactly what they are hoping for and they will happily wave off the main body of guests in the early afternoon. If you are planning to have food later, at say 6pm, this could be a bit of a stretch for most people who get the Sunday night fear and want to “get on the road”.   And again, depending on how many people you want to feed this can be a way to reduce numbers.

If you have your heart set on a large number of guests for a big day 2 then we would recommend a Friday wedding and a Saturday party.