Upon getting a venue set, it’s time to create that excellent late-night ambiance. Resolve together with your associate what sort of vitality you need to curate—then you may transfer ahead together with your planning. “Is the after-party area cool by itself or does it want some TLC? Typically candles, mushy seating, and dim lights can do the trick, whereas different instances bringing in furnishings and disco balls is what is required,” says Meyer. “It actually depends upon the area you are working with and the vibe you need to create!” In case you are repurposing your reception venue for the get together, he advises altering the route of the area to create a brand new ambiance.

Blasena emphasizes that lighting and draping that eliminates ugly partitions could make an area really feel intimate, whereas a focal bar, signature cocktails, a photograph sales space, and late-night tchotchkes, comparable to glow sticks, flashing glasses, and flip flops, can amp up the ambiance. She’s additionally a fan of making a theme for the after-party: This might contain making a tiki vibe, a retro disco aesthetic, or just leaning right into a shade scheme.

Music is crucial to set the tone of the occasion as effectively. In order for you visitors to proceed dancing into the night time, hiring a band or DJ to maintain the vibes going is a should. Blasena provides, “Nonetheless, make certain the music vibe is completely different out of your wedding ceremony by chatting by playlists together with your musicians or DJ beforehand.” When you can rent new artists to deliver music to your after-party, chat together with your reception musicians to see if they’re accessible to work the second occasion, too.

One factor that’s completely needed at your after-party is meals to maintain your visitors fueled into the wee hours of the morning. “Did somebody say late-night carbs? Let’s face it, the after-party is when everybody will thanks for these sliders and fries,” shares Blasena. “Should you’re not the slider sort, go themed with a sushi bar, mini Mexican tacos, or slices of pizza.” Take into consideration enjoyable methods to serve your bites like meals vans or packaging objects in Chinese language meals containers. Whereas cocktails are a should, you should definitely have water available as effectively. Meyer says, “Not that everybody will drink it…however having it out and accessible encourages individuals to hydrate whereas they have a good time, which additionally helps them get together longer and really feel higher the subsequent day!”