After the best day ever, these unique morning after brunch ideas will keep the excitement going.
Whether you’ve danced into the wee hours of the morning or your daytime wedding allowed you to get a good night’s sleep, you may want to keep that wedding excitement going. Here are seven unique ideas for your morning after brunch that will set your celebration apart from the rest.
Pajama Party Brunch
After a night celebrating, the thought of getting all dressed up again might be deterring. A fun pajama party morning after brunch allows guests to unwind in a cozy, casual setting. Encourage everyone to come in their pajamas or comfy clothes and set the scene with blankets and warm drinks. It creates a relaxed, intimate vibe where guests can share stories from the wedding day and enjoy a slower pace together.
Long Island Comfort Station
Give your brunch a local twist by spotlighting some Long Island classes. Think BEC (bacon, egg and cheese) from your favorite deli, crumb cake from a local bakery and, of course, baskets of fresh bagels with artisanal spreads. It’s not just delicious — it’s a way to share a piece of your home with guests, especially those traveling from out of town.
Mocktail & Wellness Bar
Not everyone wants to keep the bubbly flowing for a morning after brunch, and that’s okay! A wellness-inspired bar with fresh juices, infused waters and herbal teas offers a refreshing alternative. Pair it with light bites like fruit skewers or yogurt parfaits, and you’ll give guests the option to recharge while still feeling part of the celebration.
Acoustic Wake-Up Call
Instead of blasting a playlist, consider hiring a local musician to play soft acoustic tunes. Or find a great playlist on Spotify and sync up to a Bluetooth speaker. The gentle background music sets a welcoming atmosphere and encourages guests to linger over coffee and conversation. It’s a subtle but memorable touch that makes the morning after brunch feel like an experience rather than just a meal.
Looking for one of the best local musicians on Long Island? Check out BOLI’s Preferred Bands and Musicians!
Personalized “Recovery Kits”
A thoughtful detail that guests will rave about: mini gift bags at each seat filled with water bottles, snacks, sunglasses and maybe even a handwritten thank-you note from you and your partner. It’s practical, but it also shows how much you care about their comfort. Guests will leave feeling appreciated and loved.
Interactive Chef Experience
Elevate your brunch beyond the standard buffet by bringing in a chef to prepare dishes right in front of your guests. Whether it’s made-to-order omelets, delicate crepes or waffles piled high with toppings, the interactive element makes the meal feel special and personal. Guests will love choosing their own ingredients and watching them come to life — it’s part dining, part entertainment and a memorable way to keep the celebration going.
One of BOLI’s Preferred Caterers can bring your interactive chef experience to life.
Farewell Toast & Sweet Send-Off
As your wedding weekend winds down, a farewell toast is the perfect way to close the chapter with love and gratitude. Gather your guests during brunch and share a few heartfelt words about what their presence has meant to you. Pair the toast with a signature “morning after” cocktail or pastry that reflects your story, like your favorite diner-style mimosa or a family recipe passed down through generations. It’s a simple gesture that leaves everyone with full hearts and a lasting memory of your celebration.
Your morning after brunch doesn’t have to be just another meal — it can be the perfect encore to your wedding day. Whether you’re serving up local Long Island comfort foods, creating cozy spaces for guests to relax or sending them off with a heartfelt toast, these thoughtful touches show your appreciation and keep the celebration spirit alive. By blending unique experiences with genuine gratitude, you’ll give your loved ones one last joyful memory to carry home — and ensure your wedding weekend ends just as beautifully as it began.
This article sponsored by Port Jefferson Country Club, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!
Need self-care before the big day? Check out these places to go for bridal beauty prep in Suffolk County
Image courtesy of Water2Moon Spray Tan Boutique
Wedding planing can be fun, but it can also be stressful. Managing family dynamics. facing endless choices, and hounding people for their RSVPs can take their toll. There’s never been a better time for a little self-care than now!
If you’re in Eastern Long Island (or you don’t mind a bit of a drive), check out one of these 7 places for bridal beauty prep in Suffolk County.
Botox Beauty Bar
Sayville
Founded by Nurse Practitioner Jeanna Masone, Botox Beauty Bar wants brides (and their family members!) to look and feel their best for their big day. Their mission is to make Medical aesthetics more friendly, dynamic, and personable.
Lash Therapy West
Islip
Although they have “lash” in their name, Lash Therapy West goes way beyond that. They also offer skin, brow, and makeup services, and can help you prepare for your big day in whatever way you choose!
Water2Moon Spray Tan Boutique
Setauket-East Setauket
Water2Moon prides themselves in being a place that provides more than just a spray tan. Their airbrush tans are all customized for your individual skin tone and applied by hand by one of their certified artists.
Beauty Bomb Aesthetics
Smithtown
Take this as your official warning: the Beauty Bomb Squad may show up to your wedding, because that’s how much they love all of their brides! They’re known for cutting edge treatments like injectables, RF microneedling, lasers, skin rejuvenation, non-surgical procedures, transformative medical grade skincare and wellness medicine.
VIO Med Spa
Patchogue
VIO Med Spa is your go-to partner for getting that radiant, confident glow as you walk down the aisle. From rejuvenating facials and body-sculpting treatments to wellness services that help you feel your best inside and out, they’ll help you shine with confidence.
Image courtesy of OrangeTheory Fitness
OrangeTheory Fitness
Patchogue, Port Jefferson, Stony Brook, Wading River, Comack, Smithtown, Sayville
OTF is all about helping you crush your goals. Whether you’re looking to tone, build strength, or just release some pre-wedding jitters, they’ve got your back with group fitness that’s both fun and challenging.
Mane and Medi
Port Jefferson
The Mane and Medi team is made up of skilled beauty practitioners and registered nurses who specialize in full facial balancing, hair restoration, and inner wellness to help brides look and feel their absolute best. Whether it’s prepping for the big day or recovering after the celebrations, we’re here to elevate the bridal experience with beauty and wellness that lasts.
Stay ahead of the crowds with these trends for 2026 weddings.
Let’s face it, figuring out what’s “in” for weddings can feel overwhelming. Are traditions like the bouquet or garter toss still popular? Is the photo booth still a must-have? While the most important thing is creating a day that reflects you and your partner, there are fresh ideas shaping the wedding scene. Here are some top trends for 2026 weddings that you could consider for your special day.
Intimate Ceremony
Couples in 2026 are embracing the beauty of simplicity. Some couples may be introverted, and some want to focus on each other. Either way, a top trend for 2026 weddings seems to be more intimate ceremonies. This could mean exchanging vows with a handful of family and friends, whispering promises without a microphone or even saying “I do” at the courthouse before celebrating later with a larger reception. The emphasis is on authenticity and connection, not spectacle.
Antique Décor
Inspired by the romantic world of “Bridgerton,” vintage elegance is making its way into wedding design. Couples are choosing bold antique furniture, ornate mirrors and period-inspired details to create a timeless atmosphere. Think draped curtains, flowy fabrics, and candlelit spaces that feel like stepping into a historical romance novel. The result is a wedding that feels both regal and deeply personal.
Throwback Style
Wedding fashion in 2026 is embracing nostalgia. Brides are gravitating toward gowns inspired by past decades — think 90s slip dresses, 70s bohemian lace or even structured silhouettes reminiscent of the 1950s. Vintage-inspired veils, gloves and pearl details are making a comeback, offering a timeless elegance with a modern twist. The trend is all about honoring classic styles while reinterpreting them for today’s bride, creating looks that feel both familiar and fresh.
Accentuated Personalization
Personalization has always been important, but in 2026 it’s being taken to new heights. Couples are weaving their stories into every detail — from custom monograms on dance floors to signature cocktails named after their pets. Guest experiences are tailored too, with handwritten notes at place settings or playlists curated to reflect shared memories. The trend is about making weddings unmistakably “yours,” down to the smallest touch.
Dramatic Florals
Florals – and colors — are going bold. Oversized arrangements, cascading installations and unexpected color palettes are stealing the spotlight. Couples are experimenting with immersive floral tunnels, ceiling-hung blossoms and even floral chandeliers to transform venues into lush, dreamlike gardens. Sustainability also plays a role, with locally sourced blooms and repurposed arrangements ensuring beauty without waste.
Unique Entertainment
Gone are the days when a DJ or band was the only option. In 2026, couples are surprising guests with interactive entertainment — think live artists painting the ceremony, tarot card readers, aerial performers, string quartets or silent discos. The goal is to create unforgettable moments that reflect the couple’s personality while keeping guests engaged long after the cake is cut.
Foodie Heaven
Food is no longer just a formality, it’s a centerpiece. Couples are curating menus that reflect their culinary passions, from chef-led tasting experiences to late-night food truck surprises. Global flavors, plant-based options and interactive stations (like DIY sushi rolls or gourmet s’mores) are redefining wedding dining. Dessert spreads are equally elevated, with artisanal gelato carts, edible flower cakes and cocktail-paired sweets.
There also seems to be a generational shift from traditional formats to more unique, innovative celebrations. Gen Z couples often skip the traditional format — cocktail hour, grand entrance, dinner, cake cutting — in favor of laid-back, lounge-style receptions that prioritize mingling and flexibility over rigid schedules. Millennials, meanwhile, tend to embrace tradition but infuse it with deeply personal touches that make their day feel distinctive.
Whatever you decide, remember, it’s your wedding – and your story. Trends can spark inspiration, but sometimes a thoughtful “throwback” detail is exactly what makes your celebration unforgettable. The best weddings aren’t about following rules; they’re about creating the day that feels most like you.
For better or for worse, alcohol is a part of most celebrations. Here’s how to drink responsibly at a wedding.
From signature cocktails to champagne toasts and morning-after mimosas, alcoholic beverages are intwined into most weddings. And with an open bar at your disposal, it can be dangerously easy to throw caution to the wind and lose track of how much you’ve consumed.
But trust us — you don’t want to be the subject of gossip at brunch the next day. Before you head into that reception hall, you may want to think about how to drink responsibly at a wedding.
Know your limits
Some people can drink a glass of wine or two and be fine, and some need to abstain from alcohol completely. Everyone has a slightly different relationship to alcohol, and it’s important that you know yours.
Remember — not all drinks are created equal. A Long Island Iced Tea has more alcohol in it than a beer, so your “three drink limit” may need some adjustments based off of what you’re drinking.
Don’t skip the food
Let’s be honest, this shouldn’t be hard to do. There is so much delicious food at a wedding, and most of the time you leave pretty stuffed. Having food in your stomach slows the rate at which alcohol is absorbed into your system. So pack that plate at cocktail hour!
Image courtesy of Marco Photography
Refill your water glass
Staying hydrated is super important, even if you’re not drinking any alcohol (you can really work up a sweat on the dance floor!) A good rule of thumb is to drink one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage that you consume.
Have an “accountabili-buddy”
If you’re worried about the night getting out of hand, enlist a friend to help keep you accountable. They can give you a friendly tap when you’re getting ready to order “just one more,” and they can let you know that you’re doing that “thing” you do after too many White Claws that everyone else finds…well…a little annoying.
Pace yourself
Before you refill your champagne glass in the bridal suite, remember — you’ve got an entire day ahead of you. You don’t want to be already hungover before the bridal party makes their entrance, so slow down your consumption early in the day.
Image courtesy of Focus Studios
Know what you’re drinking
That signature cocktail looks amazing, but you and tequila have a long history. Before ordering, have an idea of what you’re getting ready to drink. Some cocktails have way more alcohol in them than you think they do, and certain liquors have higher alcohol content than others.
That goes for beer and wine, too! When in doubt, pull out your phone and look up your beverages ABV (alcohol by volume). The higher the percentage, the more alcohol in the drink.
Have a ride home ready
This goes without saying, but always have transportation worked out for the end of the night. If you’re driving yourself and others, it’s vitally important that you’re sober before getting behind the wheel. Knowing that you’re driving should strongly dictate how much you’re going to be drinking during the evening (spoiler alert: it should be minimal).
Even if you’ve got a ride home, keep your drinking in moderation. You’ll be so happy you did when you wake up bright-eyed the next morning!
If your drinking feels out of control, contact a mental health professional.
Emily and Tracy work to ensure you can include your fur babies on your big day.
Have you ever wanted to include your pets on your wedding day, but weren’t sure about the logistics? Look no further than BOLI Preferred Vendor Love & Leashes. Owners Emily and Tracy will not only bring your furry friends to your venue, they will stay by their side to make sure they’re taken care of – before, during and after you say ‘I do.’
Boarding and Beyond
What started as private in-home boarding a few years ago has turned into so much more for Emily and Tracy. “Before I met Tracy, I was boarding dogs while people would go on vacation,” said Emily. “When one of my regulars asked me to bring her dog to her wedding, I saw the opportunity to expand.” About two years ago, Love & Leashes was born when Emily and Tracy teamed up.
For weddings, they provide everything from transportation to hands-on companionship throughout the day. “We ensure dogs are leashed, well-behaved and cared for so couples can focus on celebrating,” said Emily. They arrive fully prepared — like photographers with their gear — bringing essentials such as poop bags, cooling mats, blankets, towels, lint rollers and even the dog’s favorite treats or toys to keep them happy and engaged during photos.
“The most common request we hear is, ‘Can you make sure my dog doesn’t jump on my dress?’” said Tracy. “Couples want peace of mind, and that’s exactly what we provide.” The pair will walk dogs down the aisle, help with photos and coordinate with planners and photographers so everything runs smoothly. “Whether it’s a short appearance or an eight-hour wedding, we’re there to make sure every moment with their pet is joyful and stress-free,” said Tracy.
(Photo by KP Media)
Part of the Family
But what if your fur baby gets anxious or isn’t great around strangers? Emily and Tracy assure brides that the dogs they care for are treated like their own. “Our philosophy of boarding is folding dogs right into our family,” said Tracy. “We both have large fenced-in yards, plenty of space to play and if they’d rather curl up on the couch and watch NatGeo or football, they get to do that too. We want them to feel loved and treated just as our own pets are.” Emily added, “Before any stay — whether it’s for a wedding or regular boarding — we always do a meet and greet. Couples bring their pup to see our home, meet our families and get comfortable with our own dogs so everything feels smooth and safe.” The pair say they don’t use crates, unless that is what the dogs are used to. Basically, they want your dogs to live exactly how they live at home. And while they have only taken care of dogs during weddings, they are definitely open to any other pets couples have.
Training for the Big Day
That extra care extends to wedding prep, especially for pups who may be nervous. “Because the dogs know us, they trust us and they feel our energy,” said Tracy. “We’re their advocates, making sure they’re calm, comfortable and never put in situations that could make them anxious. If a dog is timid, we’ll take them for an extra walk or give them space away from the crowd.” Emily recalled one special success story: Bailey. “She had a long history of anxiety, but her owners really wanted her in their wedding,” she said. “Over 10 months, she came to my house once a month — starting with short visits and building up to sleepovers — so she could get used to us.” By the time the wedding came, Bailey pranced down the aisle like she was the star of the show. “That transformation was incredible,” said Emily.
Favorite Moments With Your Fur Baby
For Emily and Tracy, the joy of their work comes from witnessing the sweetest, most genuine moments between couples and their pets. “The first look with mom is one of my favorites,” said Emily. “A lot of times dogs will board with us the night before, so they haven’t seen their parents for a day or two. The excitement of their little butt wiggles and wagging tails when they see their mom is just so sweet.”
Tracy shared that her favorite memories happen when dogs realize they’re surrounded by familiar faces. “The greeting before walking into a ceremony or cocktail hour is just adorable. All of a sudden, the dog is like, ‘wait, I know all these people, and they know me.’ It’s the most heartwarming thing,” she said. Tracy also treasures the quieter moments, like when a pup pauses before walking down the aisle. “It’s that instant where the dog looks at their mom or dad, and we capture it behind the scenes.” And they want couples to know that they won’t go anywhere until you get all the moments you want. They will advocate for you so your vision truly comes to life.
A Trusted Part of Your Day
What makes Love & Leashes so special isn’t just the care they provide—it’s the joy they get from being part of the celebration itself. “We get to listen to incredible ceremonies,” said Tracy. “It’s such an honor to witness weddings over and over again, each one so different. What’s amazing is how often dogs are included in so many aspects. These dogs are so loved, and it feels really special to be trusted with someone’s most precious baby on their wedding day.”
They can be a delight, but they can also be unpredictable. Should you have dogs at your wedding?
They’re cute, they’re cuddly, and they can bring out the “awws” from all around. Our dogs are more than just furry friends — they’re cherished members of our family.
When it comes to your wedding though, including your fur fam in on the action can get a little complicated. You’d much rather invite them than your Great Uncle Bob, but at least there’s no chance that Great Uncle Bob will start barking during your vows or…umm..”relieving himself” in the aisle (not before the open bar, anyway).
Dogs can be unpredictable, uncontrollable, and cause some unwanted chaos on a day that’s already pretty chaotic. Should you chance it and have them be a part of the festivities, or should you just pop their face on a cocktail napkin and leave it at that? Here are a few pros and cons to dogs at your wedding.
Pro: They’re adorable
Yes, your dog is the cutest. We definitely agree with you, and so do all of your friends and family. Getting them in a fancy outfit and crowning them ring bearer or flower girl will get your guests buzzing and create an unforgettable moment in your big day.
Plus, a little fido snuggle in the bridal suite is best way to calm your pre-ceremony jitters.
Con: They’re unpredictable
Listen, there’s reason you have a “please don’t ring the doorbell” sign on your front door. Dogs can be very unpredictable, and certain sounds, smells, or sights could set them off. A wedding could be a very stressful environment for them, and their reactions or behavior could stress you out in turn.
The solution? Pet attendants like BOLI Preferred Vendor and 2025 Diamond Award Winner Love and Leashes! They can be your pet’s “plus one” for the day, caring for them during all of the moments that matter.
Image courtesy of Studio 27 Photography
Pro: They’ll make your pictures unique and special
You’ve got the rest of your family on your shot list — mom, dad, grandma, there’s Great Uncle Bob again — why WOULDN’T you include your pup? Having your dogs in your wedding day pictures can make them that much more special, and fully symbolize your WHOLE family.
Con: It may take more time to get the shots
Remember when we said they’re “unpredictable?” That could throw a wrench in your timeline. Getting them to sit still, look at the camera, chasing after them when they’ve gotten distracted — it can all add valuable minutes onto your photo time, which could put you behind schedule.
Love and Leashes can come to the rescue here, too! They can keep your pup calm, cool, and collected before their photo op. And once the cameras are off and it’s time to party, Love and Leashes can board your pets until they’re ready to be picked up.
Pro: They can be a wedding witness
Yes! New York State allows your best fur bud to be a witness at your wedding. Put some ink on your pooch’s paw and have them sign your wedding certificate!
Con: You’ll still need a human witness
According to the New York State Department of Health, you’ll need at least one witness that would be “competent to testify in a court preceding as to what he or she witnessed.” So unless your dog has the capacity for language, you’ll still need a human witness too. But hey, the more the merrier!
In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Samantha talks about how her love of antiquing inspired the perfect touches for her wedding day.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
While Samantha and JJ may have had a typical online meeting, their relationship took an unconventional turn quickly. This cross-country pair settled on Long Island and planned the perfect romantic winter wedding day earlier this year.
A Cross-Country Adventure
Samantha and JJ’s romance began in December 2016 when she joined Bumble with a friend on a whim. The pair hit it off, but when Samantha learned JJ was just visiting Long Island and he actually lived in Los Angeles, she told him she just wanted to remain friends. JJ’s persistence and charm won her over, however. “After a month of talking, he invited me on a trip with his friends to New Orleans,” she said. “I was in my early 20s, and I had vowed that 2017 would be my ‘yes’ year. So I went, and we had a blast.” They spent a year navigating a long-distance relationship, flying back and forth between coasts before JJ moved back to Long Island.
By March 2023, Samantha and JJ were ready to take the next step. “We had talked about how I wanted something simple when he proposed,” she explains. JJ proposed on Walker Beach in Bay Shore, a quiet local spot close to the Lake House, where their families were gathered for dinner. “He was so nervous,” she said, laughing. “I sort of knew he was going to propose, as he never wants to take random walks. And we had never been to this beach before.” The celebration continued the next day at their home, where a planned baseball kickoff party for JJ’s birthday doubled as an engagement party with all their friends.
Finding the Perfect Venue
When it came to planning, Samantha and JJ took a thoughtful approach. They spent a month discussing finances, guest lists and priorities before diving into venue searches. For Samantha, the venue was the most important piece. “I wanted a romantic vintage vibe and a team that could bring that vision to life,” she explained. For JJ, the focus was on music and making sure guests had an unforgettable time on the dance floor. Together, they agreed that the venue, food, DJ and photography were their top priorities, setting the foundation for a celebration that felt both seamless and joyful.
Their search led them to tour 13 venues in just a month, but the decision ultimately came by chance. “We were actually set on another venue, when my mom reminded me that we had an appointment at the Mansion at Oyster Bay, [a BOLI Preferred Venue],” Samantha said. “When I walked through the doors, I knew it was the one. It had the exact vibe I was looking for.” Within two hours, she and JJ signed with the venue, and it did not disappoint. From the maitre d’ to the bridal attendant, the staff exceeded every expectation and made the couple feel supported on their wedding day.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Creating that Vintage Vibe
For Samantha, creating a romantic vintage vibe was at the heart of her wedding design. A lifelong lover of antiques, she leaned into warm winter tones—mauves, purples, and creams—and dressed her bridesmaids in velvet to heighten the cozy, romantic feel. She scoured estate sales and Facebook Marketplace for brass candelabras and unique centerpieces. One of her favorite details was a refurbished vintage phone chair she found online, which became the perfect setting for their phone guest book. “I actually donated it to the Mansion afterward so future brides could enjoy it,” she said. Other subtle touches included custom matchbooks at the bar, drink stirrers and a crest on the invitations—all designed to enhance the atmosphere without overwhelming it. The Mansion at Oyster Bay’s timeless elegance provided the perfect backdrop, making it easy to execute Samantha’s vision of a wedding that felt personal, romantic and beautifully vintage.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
A Moment of Calm
Samantha and JJ exchanged vows at St. Joseph’s in Babylon, the church where both her grandparents and parents had been married. The pair waited to have their first look when Samantha walked down the aisle. After the ceremony and photos, the newlyweds were ready for their moment of quiet in their bridal suite – enjoying the delicious cocktail hour food the staff had put out for them. “That moment was so important,” Samantha recalled. “We finally sat alone, looked at each other, and said, ‘We’re married.’ Hearing the laughter outside while having that private pause was bliss. All the work was done, and now we could just enjoy ourselves and celebrate with our loved ones.”
Obviously, Samantha and JJ were thrilled with all of their vendors, but two stood out as truly exceptional. BOLI Preferred Vendor High Voltage, led by Anthony—who Samantha had first worked with at her sweet 16—kept the dance floor packed all night. From seamless communication to thoughtful extras like signage, guest book setup and even a surprise upgrade to their reception design, Anthony and his team went above and beyond. “Guests still rave about the playlist,” she said.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Equally memorable was Kaela from Tower Flowers Nesconset, who brought Samantha’s romantic vintage vision to life with honesty and artistry. Kaela embraced her ideas, incorporating the candelabras into lush floral arrangements and creating everything from the boutonnieres to centerpieces with care. “She just listened,” Samantha said, noting that the results were perfect.
Stay True to Yourself
Throughout her planning, Samantha leaned on Brides of Long Island as both a resource and a community. She looked for reviews to prepare herself for vendor meetings, and she asked questions that brought in dozens of helpful responses—from makeup recommendations for her bridal shower to ideas for her bachelorette theme. “Once you’re in it, you realize you don’t know how you survived without it,” she said, noting how invaluable the group became throughout the entire process.
Now, as a bride looking back, Samantha encourages others to stay true to themselves. “Take advice, but at the end of the day, do what you want for your wedding,” she shared. “Trends and social media can be overwhelming, but the most important part is marrying your person in a way that feels authentic.” For Samantha, that meant a romantic vintage celebration filled with candlelight and subtle personal touches. Her advice: do your research, trust your instincts and make decisions that reflect your vision—you’ll never regret creating a day that’s uniquely yours.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Vendors:
Venue: The Mansion at Oyster Bay, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photo/Video: Solaris Photo & Film, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: High Voltage, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Florist: Towers Flowers Nesconset
Hair: Emilie Does My Hair
Makeup: Makeup by Marisa
Dress: Ivory & Main, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Batter Up
Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Transportation: All Star Limo, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Piano Player: Inspire with Strings
Cigar Bar: Village Cigar Headquarters in Patchogue, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Day of coordinators: Meaghan & Katie of Three Sisters II Events
Dog sitter: Tracy of Love & Leashes, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Looking to keep the party going after your wedding? These ideas will entertain your guests.
We spend so much time planning our wedding, so of course you might want to continue partying after the reception is officially over.
A lot of venues offer after party options. You could always head back to your hotel bar to unwind, or you could plan one of these eight unique ideas for your after party.
Bowling
Trade those wedding shoes for some bowling shoes at your local alley. Keep your wedding dress and tuxedo on for some fun photos! Split up into teams to enjoy a little friendly competition. And don’t forget to order some bar food and pitchers of beer.
Karaoke
You’ve spent all night dancing and listening to your DJ. Why not take the mic yourself for your after party? Check out bars to see if they offer karaoke, or get an inexpensive karaoke machine and bring it to wherever you head after.
Pool Party
This can work anywhere. Some hotels allow parties in their pool area, or you could enjoy a friend’s pool. You may even have your own! Either way, this is a great way to relax and chill after a long day.
Laser Tag
Up for some friendly competition to unwind after your wedding? Head to a laser tag joint. This is another fun idea that could make for some great photos in your wedding attire!
Escape Room
Reserve a few rooms for a fun challenge after your wedding.
Movie Night
Some theaters allow you to rent the full theater for all of your guests. Or if you want to keep it low-key, see if you could host it at your venue, hotel or even at your house. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Bonfire
Depending on where your venue is, you could head to a beach or park that allows bonfires. Or see if your hotel or venue has a firepit you could use.
Scavenger Hunt
Hand out the item list to your guests when they leave, and pick a location to meet up at after. The guest who has the most items on the list gets a free drink on the bride and groom!
The sky is the limit when it comes to after party ideas on your wedding day. You can keep it chill or party all night until closing time. Whatever you decide, remember to enjoy yourself. Take a moment to absorb the love from your friends and family who kept the celebration going!
This article brought to you by Port Jefferson Country Club, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!
Nervous about keeping the conversation going? Here are 5 fun topics to discuss with your in-laws at the next holiday gathering!
The holidays are here, and with that comes some much-anticipated family time. More likely than not, you’re splitting a few festive get-togethers between your family and your fiancé’s family. And while there’s no shortage of things you feel comfortable discussing with your own folks, that may not be the case with your future in-laws.
Maybe you’re on the shy side or maybe you just don’t know them that well, but having to keep the convo going at your in-laws may feel somewhat daunting. What happens when there’s that awkward moment of silence and you don’t know how to fill it? You know to avoid politics and religion, but what are some easy things you can talk about? Fear not, brides of Long Island — here are 5 fun, stress-free topics to discuss with your in-laws.
1. Wedding planning
This one is a no-brainer! Your in-laws may be relatively involved with the wedding planning process, but you can keep them up-to-date on details they might not know — your bridal shower and bachelorette, the flowers you’re choosing for the bouquets, finally deciding on a playlist. There are lots of things to discuss when it comes to your big day.
2. Memories from your fiancé’s childhood
Your fiancé can’t get enough of the Yankees, so ask mom and dad when this obsession started! They’re sure to share some funny and heartfelt moments from your fiancé’s childhood. Just be sure to steer clear of any topics that might be sensitive to your fiancé.
3. Their friend groups and social circles
You love a little hot gossip, no matter the age range. Ask about your future MIL’s crafting group or your future FIL’s golf buddies. They may have some exciting things to share (or some funny things to vent!) That can also give you some topics to discuss for the future — “hey, how’s your knitting friend doing?”
4. Holiday traditions from their past
Every family does something slightly different for the holidays. This is a perfect time to learn about their favorite traditions, and share some of your own with them.
5. Pop culture and sports
When all else fails, pop culture and sports teams are super easy topics. Has your future MIL seen the new Wicked movie? Can your future FIL believe the last Giants game? You may want to do a little research to see what they’re into, but showing investment in their interests can also nab you some in-law brownie points.
This article sponsored by Absolute Entertainment, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendor!
Celebrate with self-care! These ideas will help you bring wellness to your wedding weekend
Some brides of Long Island can’t wait to hit the dance floor with their signature cocktail in hand. But others may be more inclined to mindfulness and meditation than Whiskey Sours and “September.”
Neither desire is wrong! Your wedding is a reflection of you, your love story, and both of your personalities. If the traditional wedding activities aren’t really your style, here are a few ideas that can bring “wellness” into your wedding weekend.
Welcome your guests with a physical activity
There’s nothing that says your welcome party has to be a “party.” Welcome guests to your wedding weekend by inviting them to a group activity, like a yoga class, OrangeTheory workout, or 5K walk/run.
Of course, you’ll need to consider any limitations your guests may have. If your 80 year old grandmother is in a wheelchair, she may not be able to participate in anything too demanding. Be sure to have some alternatives lined up for those who can’t participate.
Enjoy a spa day with family and friends before “I do”
Sure, getting manicures and massages are great ideas for the bachelorette. But the nerves can be pretty intense in those hours before the big day! There’s no better time to focus on relaxation and reflection. Sharing that time with those closest to you can enhance your bond and relieve some stress for everyone.
A different kind of “open bar.”
Who says your libations have to be alcoholic? Consider offering your guests herbal teas, fruit-infused waters, or beverages with adaptogens. You don’t have to stop at the reception, either — consider tea bags for your favors or special drinks for your after party.
Get a drip
There are many concierge services that offer personalized IV drips. These formulas can help boost your immunity, hydration, and even mental focus. A quick drip before “I do” may be just what the doctor ordered!
A sound bath or meditation before the ceremony
Sound baths can provide a grounding, meditative experience for those involved. What better way to bring everyone to the present moment? Even if sound baths aren’t your thing, asking your officiant to lead in a brief meditation before the beginning of your ceremony can bring a calm, centered energy to the day.