We spend so much time anticipating all the events leading up to a wedding (they are much deserving of it of course), and make all the arrangements for BEFORE the wedding, and during the wedding, but what about after? There are a few immediate and long term things you shouldn't forget. Assuming makes an ass out of u and me.
Clean-up
Immediately after, and even during your wedding, your venue needs to be cleaned up. Most venues require it to be returned to the state you found it in by noon the following day, later if you're lucky. Do you really want to rush back and force your tired wedding party and visiting family members to go clean? Doesn't sound like an enjoyable first day as a married couple.
All venues are different - if they have an in-house caterer or it's inside a hotel, all the dish ware, garbage and recycling will be taken care of (and probably your rentals - ask before assuming though). If you're getting married outdoors or on private property, make sure you talk to your vendors about clean-up expectations. It might be extra, but it'll be worth it. A lot of venues also require that you take any garbage or recycling off the property - be prepared!
Brunch & Gift opening
Many couples enjoy the tradition of hosting a breakfast or brunch the morning after, and there you can open gifts and thank those present in person. This is an added cost, so some people skip it or offer it for a small amount per guest (if at a hotel or resort where you can set-up a buffet option). If you want to do something casual, ask a family member to host a small one just for out-of-town guests and family members as well as the wedding party. The breakfast is almost always smaller and more intimate than the wedding reception, and you can ask a few people to help contribute to lighten the burden. These are my tips, as there isn't much etiquette expected. Just make sure to make a few arrangements a couple weeks before your wedding, and communicate to those you'd like present. Have a bridesmaid or family member write down all the gifts you received and who it was from to refer to when writing your thank-you cards.
Payments
Most of your vendors should have already been paid, but double check just to be sure or be prepared to pay the final amount on any invoices that may have changed the night of (labour, liquor, etc).
Thank you's
First send an email or take the time to call your vendors to say thank you. Also, anyone that leant an extra hand in set-up or clean-up will appreciate another call just to say how much it meant to you. Then the thank-you cards - you can even start having these prepared before your wedding, but don't make the mistake of sending a generic card or email! Personalize your thank you cards after opening gifts and documenting who gave you what - and hand write a note that is specific to each guest, family, or couple. Don't forget these! They should go out within 4 weeks of your wedding (but the sooner the better…).
Relax, Enjoy, and Love each other! Then eventually it's back to reality and work….
