How to Have a Brunch Wedding: Tips & Ideas (plus our Timeline)

Are you dreaming of a wedding day filled with sunshine, laughter, and the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee? A brunch wedding might just be the perfect fit for you! Combining the charm of a morning celebration with the laid-back elegance of brunch, this trend is gaining popularity among couples looking to add a unique twist to their special day. If you’re considering saying “I do” over mimosas and pancakes, here are some essential tips to ensure your brunch wedding is nothing short of spectacular.

1. Capture Every Moment: While a brunch wedding may have a different vibe than an evening affair, it’s still essential to document every precious moment. Make sure to have your photographer and videographer cover the full wedding day, from the early morning preparations to the heartfelt toasts during brunch. These professionals will capture the joy and romance of your special day, allowing you to relive the memories for years to come.

2. Welcome Drink Delight: Start your brunch wedding off on the right foot by greeting your guests with a refreshing welcome drink. Whether it’s a steaming cup of coffee, invigorating lemon water, or a light mimosa, this thoughtful gesture sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable celebration. It’s the perfect way to welcome your loved ones and kick off the festivities with a touch of hospitality.

3. Indulge in Exceptional Brunch Fare: One of the highlights of any brunch wedding is undoubtedly the food. Treat your guests to a culinary experience they won’t soon forget by splurging on excellent brunch fare. While you may opt to save money by forgoing an open bar, consider allocating your budget towards delectable brunch dishes that will leave a lasting impression. From savory quiches and fluffy pancakes to gourmet omelets and artisan pastries, curate a menu that tantalizes the taste buds and reflects your unique style as a couple.

Signature Sips and Savors: Instead of a traditional open bar, elevate your brunch wedding with a curated selection of beverages that complement the brunch theme. Offer wine and beer for guests to enjoy alongside their meal, and consider featuring a signature drink that adds a touch of personality to the occasion. Bottomless mimosas are a popular choice, providing endless bubbles and a festive atmosphere without breaking the bank. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!

4. Reception Revelry Without Dancing: Unlike traditional evening receptions that revolve around dancing, a brunch wedding opens up a world of creative possibilities for entertainment. Consider incorporating table games like fill-in-the-blank cards and well wishes for the newlyweds, along with providing elegant pens as party favors. Another delightful option is the shoe game, a lighthearted activity that never fails to entertain guests. Set up a photo booth and designate mingling areas with additional activities, such as an audio guest book phone, where guests can leave heartfelt messages for the happy couple. As an added bonus, consider offering an audio guest book as an add-on to your videography package, allowing you to cherish these precious memories for years to come.

5. Extend the Celebration: Transform your brunch wedding into a weekend or full-day affair to make the most of this special occasion. After the morning festivities, invite guests to relax and unwind by the pool or enjoy some downtime at the hotel. In the evening, reconvene for a second round of celebration, whether it’s a casual dinner or a lively cocktail hour. Finally, bid farewell to your guests with a send-off brunch the following morning, allowing you to savor every moment of this joyous occasion surrounded by loved ones.

6. Simplify Hair and Makeup: Daytime weddings offer the perfect opportunity to embrace a simpler, more timeless approach to hair and makeup. Save on professional services by opting for a DIY makeup look that’s heat and humidity-proof, ensuring you look flawless from morning until night. Consider investing in lash extensions to streamline your morning routine and minimize the risk of mascara smudges during emotional moments. Check out our heat and humidity-proof makeup tutorial for expert tips and tricks to achieve a radiant bridal look that lasts all day long.

Our Miami Beach brunch wedding timeline

This was roughly the timeline we did for our wedding held in South Beach. We had our Ceremony on the sand and just before that a first look on the boardwalk during sunrise. You’ll take notice that I detail some things I would have added or adjusted at the end.

Rehearsal Night:

  • 7:00 PM: Kick off the celebration with a relaxed pizza dinner welcome party at the hotel, followed by some well-deserved pool and hot tub relaxation. Take this time to bond with loved ones and perhaps even write your own vows together. Don’t forget to steam your wedding attire in preparation for the big day ahead.

Wedding Day:

  • 5:00 AM: Rise and shine with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Rachel heads to the girls’ room to begin getting dressed, while Chris remains in the suite to prepare.
  • 6:30 AM: Depart for the beach, a scenic 15-minute drive away. Rachel travels with the girls, while Chris accompanies the guys.
  • 7:00 AM: Experience the breathtaking first look against the backdrop of the sunrise, capturing the magic of the moment.
  • 7:05 AM: Take advantage of the golden hour for stunning portraits around the beach, immortalizing your love against the serene coastal backdrop.
  • 7:30 AM: Guests begin to arrive, allowing for more candid portraits and heartfelt moments shared with loved ones.
  • 8:00 AM: Gather for the intimate ceremony, set to last 15-20 minutes, as you exchange vows and promises of forever.
  • 8:30 AM: Following the ceremony, take time for family portraits and enjoy some relaxed moments together.
  • 9:00 AM: Transition into the breakfast hour, where guests can mingle, enjoy coffee, and capture more precious memories. A Cuban coffee breakfast truck pulls up, offering a delightful array of caffeinated delights to fuel the festivities.
  • 10:00 AM: Guests depart for brunch, enjoying a scenic 15-minute drive with valet services covered by the couple.
  • 10:30 AM: Brunch officially begins, treating guests to a sumptuous feast of delectable dishes and refreshing beverages.
  • 2:00 PM: As brunch draws to a close, guests have the option to return to the hotel for an afternoon nap or gather at the pool deck to continue the celebration. Some hotels may even offer early evening happy hours around 4:00 PM, providing the perfect opportunity for additional relaxation and enjoyment.
  • 9:00 PM: The festivities continue with an evening after-party, perhaps at a reserved lounge or salsa club. Embrace the vibrant energy of the evening as you dance the night away with your nearest and dearest.

Note: With a relaxed and casual vibe, photo coverage is scheduled for 8 hours, from 5:30 AM to 1:30 PM, as there is no highly produced exit from the brunch celebration. The day concludes with a simple “see you later!” as guests depart for the evening after-party.

Optional Sunset Cruise: For couples looking to go all out, consider adding a welcome evening sunset cruise to the festivities. With this addition, adjust the wedding day timeline accordingly, starting the ceremony at 10:00 AM, brunch at 12:00 PM noon, and the after-party at 9:00 PM. This extended celebration provides ample time for relaxation, indulgence, and unforgettable memories with loved ones, ensuring your brunch wedding is an affair to remember.

planning your wedding and need a videographer still?

Being a past bride, I can truly empathize with this info overload process but absolutely love the capturing wedding days and the rollercoaster of the morning getting ready anticipation, the build up to seeing your spouse, joy, laughter and celebration. You can Contact Me today to talk about your wedding vision and the moments of your celebration you value most catching on video and turning into an artistic documentary heirloom your family can look back on for years to come!

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