The 5 Wedding Weekend Elements Every Couple Needs to Consider

There’s no time like a wedding to gather with friends and family — and not just during the reception. Extending the festivities throughout the weekend means more opportunities to catch up with old friends, celebrate with out-of-town relatives and bring two families together as one.

While planning additional events may sound a little daunting, the pros at The Belle of Blue Bell have perfected the wedding weekend experience. The skilled venue staff have organized hundreds of seamless celebrations that last from Friday check-in to Sunday check-out. Here’s what you need to consider for each item on the itinerary, according to their in-house experts.

The Hotel Block

After picking your venue and date, make reserving overnight accommodations your next priority. With all of the conventions, sporting events and conferences in town, Philadelphia-area hotels can book up fast. The wedding pros at The Belle recommend locking down rooms 12 to 24 months in advance, as weekends sell out very quickly.

The Belle’s sister property, Normandy Farm Hotel, is conveniently located just minutes away with complimentary shuttle service to and from The Belle. Accommodations with on-site amenities — like an indoor pool, modern fitness center and bar and restaurant — will keep guests busy while you’re prepping last-minute details.

The Rehearsal Dinner

Let the festivities begin at the rehearsal dinner, the traditional welcome party for both the wedding party and out-of-town guests. This kick-off doesn’t have to take the form of sit-down dinner, though. If your families are meeting for the first time, a casual buffet or cocktail party may help break the ice. At Normandy Farm’s restaurant Farmer’s Daughter, couples can pick between a private dining room or bar depending on the mood they’re going for.

The Wedding

For the marquee event itself, think beyond dinner and dancing. Couples can either go a more traditional route at The Belle or do something a little less expected, like a “bubbles and bloodies” brunch-style reception. No matter what time the vows begin, a day-of coordinator can ensure the event goes off without a hitch. The Belle also offers an in-house florist and photographer for a truly seamless experience.

The After Party

It’s time to switch out your shoes and let loose. After the last dance, consider gathering everyone at a bar or private room for continued celebration. The Farmer’s Daughter provides late-night bites and a complimentary DJ on Saturdays until 2 a.m. to keep the party going. When your wedding goes by in a flash, you won’t regret dancing with your guests for a few more songs — and then retreating to the convenient on-site hotel.

The Post-Wedding Brunch

Send everyone off in style the following morning with a hearty brunch. A buffet like the one at The Farmer’s Daughter lets guests float in and out depending on what time they awake. It also gives you a chance as a couple to reminisce on a perfect day and share thanks with your guests for their love and support.

Plan the perfect wedding weekend at The Belle of Blue Bell, a premier venue located just outside of Philadelphia.

This is a paid partnership between The Belle of Blue Bell and Philadelphia Magazine