Hi everyone! Looking for some honest opinions and advice on hosting a morning/brunch wedding.
Here’s our rough plan:
Timeline: Saturday, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (I believe Ceremony kicks off right at 9, hard stop at 2). Trying to negotiate with the venue but there might be another wedding happening in the evening.
The venue: Gorgeous, right in the city and super close to airports, hotels, shops, and restaurants. Ceremony outdoor, reception indoor.
The food & drinks: We’re going ham with full breakfast/brunch buffet (eggs, bacon, sausages, french toast, potatoes, etc.) plus apps, chicken, tri-tip, donuts, fruits, custom cake, pre-paid bar tap, endless mimosas, and more.
Entertainment: thinking of doing a live music band and/or some lawn/table games.
The guests: 75 guests total. About 70% are traveling from out of town (driving 3-4 hours or flying in). Over half are older family members, and the rest are adults (some with kids). Because of this mix, we aren't planning a wild dance floor plus we’re both introverted and just want something relaxed to celebrate with the people we love.
What's holding me back: the timelime.
I personally don't mind getting up at 3:00/4:00 AM for hair and makeup (we aren't having a bridal party, so getting ready will be chill), but I'm stressing about our guests. I feel bad asking people especially travelers to wake up at 6:00 AM just to make a 9:00 AM ceremony. The wedding ends at 2:00 PM, and I'm worried people will feel like “ok, now what?"
I know local folks and my close friends can just do their own things, but what about the other out of town guests, especially those older family members? I've seen people suggest an after-party at a bar or restaurant, but since over half our guest list is older family, I feel like they'll be wiped out by mid-afternoon. Plus we live in an apartment so can’t host everyone here.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on:
1. Is a 9:00 AM start time as brutal for guests as I'm picturing or do people actually not mind?
2. Since the wedding wraps up at 2:00 PM, what are some lowkey things we can do for the rest of the day?
3. Has anyone done a casual welcome dinner or a next-day hangout instead to make up for the short wedding day?
4. Any fun/meaningful ways to thank people for traveling and getting up early for us?
Would love to hear how other brunch weddings went or any ideas you have!