Finding time for the wedding party to get together and have fun as a group before the ceremony can be a challenge, especially if everyone is traveling from all points on the globe. The bride and groom are tackling any number of details in the remaining hours before the “I do’s” and time is of the essence. So how do the bridesmaids bond and the groomsmen gather to spend time with the couple?

Figuring it all out is referred to by event planners as wedding enhancements, typically beyond the normal ceremony and reception package. However, these extra events will likely be memorable moments for all involved. And it’s usually a good time for the pending Mr. and Mrs. to relax and enjoy the moment.

An informal gathering of the wedding party can bring everyone together to relax and have fun.

Ideas may include:

A Bridal Brunch & Spa – where the ladies gather together for spa services followed by brunch just for them. It will be a time to get glam for the ceremony and have special moments with the bride before she walks down the aisle.

Groomsmen can plan a golf outing for the morning of the ceremony.

The Gentlemen’s Party – the guys may want to have a traditional bachelor party or get in some time on the tennis court or golf course. This is good bonding time for them to help the groom work off any nervous energy while having fun. And let’s face it, it doesn’t take all day for them to get ready for the ceremony so they need something to do while waiting.

Rehearsal Dinner – this is another special event that is planned for the wedding party and a select group of others to have a fun, relaxed meal together and bond. The setting is usually intimate and gives the couple a chance visit more with everyone before the big day.

The Slumber Party – can be like an extension of a bachelorette or bachelor party the night before the wedding. The bride and her bridesmaids go upscale from the middle school slumber party and stay up late laughing under one roof. The guys may have a different plan involving a few pranks on the ladies, like all boys do, but all in good-natured fun.

Photo Credit: Laura Ross Photography

And any or all of these ideas can be pulled off to enhance any wedding event with a little pre-planning and the right venue. We are known for our weddings at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club. Our exquisite property can be an inclusive venue for all the special details culminating with the ceremony and celebration of the reception. By booking your wedding at Golden Ocala, the facility fee for any related events is waived including rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, engagement photo shoots, bachelorette gatherings, gentlemen’s bachelor parties, etc. Let our wedding planner Julianne Cuomo help make Golden Ocala the backdrop for your special day.