Once you have a venue set, it’s time to create that perfect late-night atmosphere. Decide with your partner what kind of energy you want—then you can move forward with your planning. “Is the after-party space cool on its own or does it need some TLC? Sometimes candles, soft seating, and dim lights can do the trick, while other times bringing in furniture and disco balls is what is needed,” says Meyer. “It really depends on the space you’re working with and the vibe you want to create!” If you are repurposing your reception venue for the party, he advises changing the direction of the space to create a new ambiance.

Blasena emphasizes that lighting and draping that eliminates unsightly walls can make a space feel intimate, while a focal bar, signature cocktails, a photo booth, and late-night tchotchkes, such as glow sticks, flashing glasses, and flip flops, can amp up the atmosphere. She’s also a fan of creating a theme for the after-party: This could mean creating a tiki vibe, a retro disco aesthetic, or simply leaning into a color scheme.

Get the Right Tunes

Music is essential to set the tone of the event. If you want guests to continue dancing into the night, hiring a band or DJ to keep the vibes going is a must. “However, make sure the music vibe is different from your wedding by chatting through playlists with your musicians or DJ beforehand,” Blasena says. While you can hire new artists to bring music to your after-party, chat with your reception musicians to see if they are available to work the second event, too.

Organize Late-Night Food

One thing that is absolutely necessary at your after-party is food to keep your guests fueled into the wee hours of the morning. “Did someone say late-night carbs? Let’s face it, the after-party is when everyone will thank you for those sliders and fries,” shares Blasena. “If you’re not the slider type, go themed with a sushi bar, mini tacos, or slices of pizza.” Think about fun ways to serve your bites, like with food trucks or by packaging items in Chinese food containers. While cocktails are a must, be sure to have water readily available too. “Not that everyone will drink it…but having it out and available encourages people to hydrate while they celebrate, which also helps them party longer and feel better the next day!” Meyer says.

Wedding After-Party Etiquette

Since a wedding after-party is a more relaxed part of the night, there aren’t as many rules surrounding its etiquette. Read ahead for a bit of guidance surrounding this post-reception fête.

Who usually attends a wedding after-party?

The after-party is attended by wedding guests who can stay up late enough and make it to that portion of the night. Sometimes, if the aesthetic or vibes of the party are not entirely appropriate for their parents and grandparents, a couple may note that it is intended for younger guests. However, it’s best not to exclude any wedding guests that desire to come.

Who pays for the after-party?

There is no rule about who pays for the wedding after-party, however it is often covered by whoever foots the bill for the wedding day. A couple may also choose to host the wedding after-party themselves. If the after-party is more casual and spur-of-the-moment, it is fine to have guests pay for their own drinks at the bar.

How long is a wedding after-party?

A wedding after-party has no time limit. It could last for just an hour after the reception ends or continue until the sun rises. The length depends on your stamina, budget, and the venue’s rules.

What to wear to a wedding after-party?

While most guests will stick to their wedding-day attire for the after-party, the newlyweds can have some fun and change their ensembles in the evening. Consider swapping a long gown for a fun mini, embracing fabric in sequins, beading, or a surprising color, and changing out your shoes to a style that can keep you going into the wee hours of the morning.

Do you need to send a separate invitation?

Not necessarily. It’s good to give guests a heads up on the wedding website that there will be an after-party or add an informative insert to your invitation suite so they know the timeline of the day. But there’s no need to send an entirely separate invite or request an RSVP.