What is an afterparty and how common are they really?

Question

It's not common at all where either of us are from, nor have any of our guests or any acquaintances heard of or ever been to such a thing. Instead of having two different parties at completely different venues, wouldn't it make sense just to have one party at one venue but have it optional to stay longer if someone wishes, and those who want to leave early can do so as well?

Answer 1

Well, receptions usually don't go incredibly long.. especially if you have kids there. Then sometimes the people who want to... (usually close friends and family that you are very close to) will go back to the hotel or to the bar or something afterwards and stay there until VERY late!

Answer 2

I don't know if it's necessarily common where I'm at, but one of my friends had one and I am going to have one as well.  It just works out better for me because I am going through a place that organizes your wedding for you.  They provide almost everything except for the attire.  However, they will only give you 4 hours total for the ceremony and reception.  They only do hors d'oeurves too.  Besides, we can't serve alcohol at the reception site.  All of that is fine with me because I wanted a short afternoon hors d'oeurves reception.  But none of us want that to be the end of the festivities either, so we are going to have an afterparty at my future inlaws where we are going to change out of the wedding clothes, grill out, drink, and have a good time.  Anyone who wants to continue celebrating can join us back at the house, if not, they don't have to feel like their missing anything.  So I guess it makes sense for us to have one.

Answer 3

Alot of places will only let you party for so long....so yes an after party is common..i had one..my reception ended at 10 pm...and after that we went back to the hotel and hung out at the pool and spa till the wee hours of the morning..

Answer 4

Not done at all amongst family and friends where we live. Sometimes the attendants might party in a hotel room after the wedding is over, but that's it.

Answer 5

there are several different kinds of after parties. It could just be a get together of a few friends to talk about the party and drink. or just something with just the girls. or just a regular party...after the 1st party. usually there's coffee involved (since everyone is trying to sober up).. and maybe some donuts or something to calm yourself down before arriving at home.