Who says the celebrating needs to stop when your wedding reception ends? Since weddings, and especially elegant wedding receptions, are usually steeped in tradition (they're often called "the parents' party,") the "after party"--when the bride and groom can show more of their own personal style--is quickly becoming the hottest new trend in weddings!

More and more, couples are extending their wedding celebrations far into the night, and sometimes to the next day. With so many couples marrying later in life or living together before marriage, the "wedding night" isn't the long-awaited thrill it once was. An "after" party gives the bride and groom a chance to spend time in a relaxed atmosphere with family and friends they don't see often.

Creativity and just having a blast drive the planning. Perhaps a sleigh ride, bonfire, roasting marshmallows and drinking hot toddies and cocoa after a winter wedding in Montana? How about a moonlight barbecue with music and dancing after a wedding in the Southwest? Make your coastal New England "after" party an authentic champagne clambake on the beach!

Your "after party" doesn't even have to be right after the reception. Wait until the next day if you think you'll be too wired or tired to party on. You might want to have a DJ, do some decorating and, to save your strength for the honeymoon, hire a caterer. Now that we know an "after party" is in your future, let's talk favors!

A Favor Before And AFTER!

The absolute perfect favor (and it can be personalized, too!) for the outdoor "after party" following your winter wedding is the "Heart Warmer" Mini Heart-Shaped Hand Warmer. Not only will your guests stay comfy cozy, they'll have a heartwarming reminder of your distinctly different wedding celebration.










That southwestern barbecue will be downhome and delicious! The favor for this fiesta is the "Hot! Hot! Hot! Chili Peppers Magnet. Not only does it make a great keepsake of a wild and wonderful "after party," it also tells your guests a little more about your relationship and adds just the right amount of spice to the festivities.

Your champagne clambake will be a smashing way to end an ideal wedding weekend, so have a camera handy to take photos of everyone as they enjoy your first hours as husband and wife with you. Favor them all with a "Flip-Flop" Photo Frame and its flower accent. When you return from your honeymoon, send them their photo to put in the frame. They'll never forget the fun that went into "extra innings!"

Don't you just love this trend? It gives new meaning to the term "wedding party," and you'll have the time of your life before you head off to your happily ever "after!"