With destination weddings being so popular recently along with people more often being spread across the country as well as the world, the wedding weekend is becoming one of the most popular new trends.  Many a bridal couple has commented "it was over before we knew it" after their wedding.  Planning a wedding weekend is a sure way to make the festivities of your wedding last a bit longer.  Not only will you have more fun activities to participate in, but you will also have more time to spend with your out-of-town guests.  

We are including a few suggested activities for your wedding weekend. However, don't feel as if you are obligated to include every activity in your particular wedding weekend.  These are just suggestions and you should customize the activities and events to fit your particular wedding location and budget.  

One of the nicest things you can do for your out-of-town guests is to host a welcome party.  This doesn't have to be a big, formal affair.  A casual backyard barbecue or simple buffet dinner at the hotel where most of your guests are staying is the perfect way to welcome your guests.  Also, why not invite your in town guests as well?  If you budget will allow, this is a good way for everyone to meet and get to know each other.  

As a general rule, most couples will have a rehearsal dinner one or two days before their wedding.  Generally the guest list will include close family, the wedding party and the officiant.  However, if you are planning a wedding weekend, you may want to include some of your out-of-town guests at the dinner as well.  If you choose to go this route, you may want to include rehearsal dinner invitations in the welcome bags of the guests you will be inviting.  

Be sure to plan some activities for your guests to enjoy while they are in town.  However, be careful not to over schedule.  If you schedule several activities each day, your guests may be obligated to attend each one and easily become overwhelmed and stressed out...the exact opposite of what you are trying to accomplish.  Never schedule more than one optional activity per day.  That way your guests will have some down time to just enjoy sitting around by the pool or participating in some activity of their own choosing.  

It's best not to plan any activities on the day of your wedding.  Let your guests relax up until the time of your wedding. After all, you will want them to save all their energy for the party following your ceremony.

A great way to end your wedding weekend is to host an informal farewell brunch.  This way you will have a chance to thank everyone for coming and say your final goodbyes prior to everyone heading home and you and your new spouse heading off to enjoy your honeymoon. The brunch doesn't need to be anything fancy.  If you have a large number of rooms booked in a particular hotel, you may be able to arrange a casual brunch for a discounted price.  Another good option is for the bride or groom's parents to host the brunch at their home.   One good rule of thumb is to not schedule the farewell brunch too early or too late.  Some guests will be recuperating from the festivities the night before while others will be wanting to get on the road early to head home.