Welcome Party ideas - not hosted

We're going to be doing exactly this, but we'll be telling people to stop by and see us in the bridal suite where we'll be staying! We'll have some snacks and drinks but I'm thinking like... a few bottles of champagne, maybe a fruit and/or vegetable platter? Nothing crazy lol

We plan to use our rehearsal dinner as our welcome party. Sort of a 2 in 1 deal. I don't think it's rude to let people know where you will be hanging out if they'd like to join. Since your crowd isn't into bars, maybe you could invite them over to your house?

The wedding is 1.5 hours from our house, or I would have loved that idea.

Our rehearsal is actually a brunch and is over by 2pm. Looking for something to fill in Friday night.

Thank you for the idea!

View Quoted Comment Love that idea. The executive suite was already booked at our hotel, so we have a smaller suite, that I think would feel cramped.

I think "inviting" people to stop by that is totally fine. If a bar isn't up your alley, what about the bar side of a restaurant? I'm thinking of somewhere that has high-top tables where you could maybe get a couple appetizers to share and/or pick at.

Not rude at all! I’ve been to several wedding that had the same type of welcome party. It was fun & I personally never expected bride & groom to pay for my drinks/food.

I agree with pp about reserving bar side of a restaurant, where people who want a drink can order one & you can all share some appetizers etc. I don’t drink but I still go to bars like this with friends & have a mocktail or even a coffee!

We are putting a small blurb on our wedding website & welcome bag pamphlet that says "The bride & groom will be in the hotel bar, hanging out with family & friends, starting at 8 PM. Feel free to come by & say hi to us before the big day!". Our rehearsal dinner already has 70 people, we can't accommodate all our out of town guests (it would just end up being an entire second wedding). We may buy some big appetizers or shots for smaller groups, but I don't think it implies we are buying for everyone. Is there a coffee shop or restaurant nearby? Even a brewery that serves food & nonalcoholic options? Maybe a local bowling alley, arcade, mini golf, top golf?

We are phrasing it as a welcome gathering on our website and welcome bag itinerary

I think we might do the hotel bar, since it is attached to the hotel restaurant. Then whoever wants to drink can, and those that don't are uncomfortable!