When to Hold a Wedding Brunch

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If you’re looking for a fresh and unique way to celebrate your big day, a wedding brunch might be the perfect choice. Whether you’re skipping the traditional evening reception altogether or hosting a post-wedding gathering the next morning, a brunch is a relaxed yet elegant celebration. From choosing the right menu to planning a mouthwatering menu, here’s everything you need to know about hosting a wedding brunch that feels just as special as an evening affair. 

Why Hold a Wedding Brunch?

A wedding brunch is a stylish and relaxed alternative to a traditional evening reception. It’s perfect for couples who love the idea of a bright, cheerful celebration with delicious food and a laid-back vibe. 

Brunch weddings often have lower venue and catering costs, making them ideal for those looking to maximize their budget without sacrificing elegance. They also allow for more natural light, stunning photos and a unique experience that guests will remember. 

When Should You Have Your Wedding Brunch?

The timing depends on how it fits into your overall celebration. Whether you plan it as the main event or post-wedding gathering, consider the schedule that works best for you and your guests. 

For a Morning Wedding

If you’re planning a ceremony before noon, a brunch reception is a natural fit. Guests can enjoy classic brunch favorites like mimosas, waffles and eggs Benedict while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

As a Day-After Celebration

A post-wedding brunch is perfect if you want to spend extra time with close family and friends before everyone heads home. It’s especially great for destination weddings, where guests have traveled and appreciate one last gathering. 

For a More Intimate Affair

Brunch weddings are ideal for smaller guest lists. The daytime setting lends itself to a cozy, informal celebration, making it easier to focus on meaningful conversations and quality time. 

As a Budget-Friendly Option

Morning weddings and brunch receptions can be significantly more affordable than evening events. Venues and vendors often have lower rates for daytime weddings, and brunch menus tend to be less expensive than elaborate dinner spreads.

For Something Different

If you want to skip the traditional evening wedding format, a brunch wedding offers a fresh and relaxed alternative. Think outdoor garden venues, fresh florals and a bright, airy ambience that feels special yet effortless. 

Choosing the Right Venue

The perfect venue sets the tone for your wedding brunch, creating a beautiful and comfortable space for your celebration. From cozy cafes to elegant hotel ballrooms, the right location should match your vision and guest experience. 

Restaurant or Cafe

A restaurant or cafe is a great choice for a wedding brunch, especially if you want a cozy and stylish atmosphere with minimal setup. Many restaurants offer private dining rooms, while cafes provide a charming, intimate setting with delicious, chef-prepared brunch options. Another bonus is that most eateries don’t require a booking fee, so you only have to worry about the food costs. 

Since these venues are already furnished and decorated, you won’t need to worry about rentals, and the built-in kitchen ensures fresh, high-quality food. Be sure to check if your chosen location allows private events in the morning and whether their options fit your vision. 

Outdoor Garden or Courtyard

For couples who love nature and want a romantic, airy ambience, an outdoor garden or courtyard is the perfect setting for a wedding brunch. The natural surroundings provide a beautiful backdrop, meaning you can keep decorations simple.

Morning light is particularly flattering for wedding photography, and the fresh air is relaxing and cheerful. If you consider an outdoor location, have a backup plan in case of bad weather, such as a tented area or an indoor space nearby. 

Hotel Event Spaces

Hotels are convenient and elegant, making them an excellent choice. Many hotels have event spaces with large windows that let in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming setting. 

A hotel brunch also means out-of-town guests can enjoy a seamless experience, as they can simply head downstairs after a good night’s sleep. Some hotels even offer brunch packages that include food, drinks and even coordination, making planning much easier. 

At Home

In 2023, couples spent an average of $12,800 on their wedding venue. Hosting your wedding brunch at home is a great personal touch to your special day, while saving you money. If you or a family member have a spacious backyard or dining area, you can create an intimate and relaxed celebration without worrying about securing a venue.

A home brunch can be as formal or casual as you like, from a sit-down meal to a buffet-style spread with self-serve stations. To make the event stress-free, consider hiring a chef or catering service, and rent tables and chairs if needed.

Brunch Menu Ideas

A wedding brunch menu should be a perfect balance of classic morning favorites and creative, elegant dishes that reflect your style. Here are some delicious ideas to make your reception unforgettable.

Fresh Juice Bar

A fresh juice bar adds a fun touch to your brunch. Offer various fruit and vegetable juices, such as orange, watermelon, grapefruit and green juice blends. You can even include mix-ins like ginger or mint for extra flavor. For guests who want something bubbly, offer the option of turning their juice into a mimosa or Bellini.

Build-Your-Own Smoothie Bowl

A build-your-own smoothie bowl station is a healthy and interactive option that allows guests to customize their breakfast. Provide a selection of smoothie bases like acai or mango, along with an array of toppings like granola, fresh fruit, coconut flakes, peanut butter and chia seeds. This is a great way to cater to different dietary preferences and is perfect for a summer wedding.

Pancake Stacks

Pancakes are a fun and easy-to-serve option for your reception. You can serve individual mini stacks with toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream and maple syrup. For a gourmet touch, offer flavors such as lemon ricotta or cinnamon swirl, along with unique toppings like caramelized bananas, honeycomb or spiced nuts. 

Buffet-Style Brunch 

A buffet setup works beautifully for a wedding brunch, giving guests the flexibility to choose their favorites while encouraging a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s also a fantastic way to cut costs and ensure everyone has something to enjoy. Some must-have items include:

• Fluffy scrambled eggs or made-to-order omelets
• Crispy bacon and breakfast sausages
• Freshly baked pastries, croissants and bagels with spreads
• Seasonal fruit platters
• A selection of cheeses and smoked salmon

Crepe Cake

It’s unlikely you or your guests will want a heavy dessert after an indulgent brunch. Wedding cakes cost couples around $500 or between $2.00 to $12.00 per slice. Instead of traditional wedding cake, consider serving a delicate and delicious crepe cake. Made by layering crepes with pastry cream or flavored fillings like lemon curd or Nutella, this alternative is light and perfectly suited for a morning celebration. 

A Fresh Take

A wedding brunch is a wonderful way to mix things up and create a personal and memorable celebration. With a bright, airy setting and a creative menu, it’s an option that lets you enjoy your special day without the pressure of a formal evening reception.