And After the Party…There’s the After Party

BY KATE SULLIVAN
 
When the clock strikes twelve, forget turning in – it’s time to turn it up. The hottest trend in weddings today is the after-hours, after party.

While Hollywood takes credit for starting most trends, the after party has more organic origins. “More than being influenced by Hollywood, this trend is a reflection
of the reality that many couples don’t have a chance to see their friends, particularly those who live in other cities, as often as they’d like,” says Millie Martini Bratten, editor-in-chief of Brides magazine. For couples inundated by life’s commitments, buddy time takes a back seat. For a couple kicking off the beginning of their adventure together, the after party has become “a stylish but unfussy way to spend more time with those closest to them,” says Bratten.

Unlike most fads born from the bright lights of the young and famous, this sentimental trend appears to have real staying power. Unfussy it may be, but the best
after party is no last-minute affair. A late-night post-reception bash takes some planning.

Convenience counts

When it comes to the after party, first option? Call the bar at the hotel bar where most out-oftown guests are lodging.

Make sure to ask how late the bar stays open and give an estimate of the time you and your entourage will arrive. Ask about the crowd at that time of night. Will you need to reserve an area? Will you have the place to yourself? You’ll want to speak with a manager to cover the basic details.

No hotel bar? No problem. For smaller crowds, style up one of your friend’s suites and have an in room party. Be sure to contact the hotel manager to check about latenight noise levels.

If the hotel gives you the “Do Not Disturb” treatment don’t panic; just look to a nearby watering hole. Many bars will set deals and work with large parties. Be
sure to connect with the manager of the bar and speak with someone who will be there on the night of the party so there is no confusion.

Music is a must

Guests danced the night away to your band or DJ, so just press a button for your next party. Use your iPod or MP3 player to line up your special tunes, or create a play list to set the mood.

Some sound advice from Ayom Siengo, Chicago DJ and owner of Chicago Event Makers: “’80s music never goes out of style and pop music now is cooler. It no
longer means boy bands. Today’s pop is hot and fun.” So keep the J Timberlake loaded. Siengo warns, though, that a skilled DJ can bring an energy and flow that an iPod simply cannot provide. So if you can swing it, hiring a live person to do your musical medley is worth the investment. And if you had a DJ at the reception, you might be able to get a deal for late night.

— CTW Features