Night before wedding plans

LexiMS

So we decided that we would invite wedding party and oot relatives to the rehearsal dinner, but that leaves all of our oot friends (which is quite a few).  We want to do something with them, probably after the rehearsal dinner which will be over by 9:00.
Most guests will be staying in Rockport. 
Here are the options I came up with:
-Bowling--we would provide some food but it would be cash bar
-A bar in Gloucester, we would just pick someplace that we would meet up, everyone would be on their own for food/drinks
-A function room (more like a conference room) at the hotel-we would be allowed to bring in our own drinks, but with nowhere to heat up food it would be snack stuff (with this option, I dont really know who would set up)

Shazzie116

Does the hotel have a bar? For my brother's wedding, after the RD we all just gathered in the bar and played pool and hung out. I really like the bowling idea too. Bowling is always a fun time (even more fun if you are bad at it!)

LexiMS

No bar at the hotel...boo

CCBelle

I would do the bar.  We had everyone meet up at a local bar post the RD (which was just for immediate family and WP).  We provided a really nice spread of cheese and crackers, but guests bought their own beverages.  If you can, I think it's nice to provide some sort of "snackage."

megandjay

We are planning to meet OOT guests at a nearby bar.

LoveAdopted

I think the bowling idea sounds like fun- something different!

deborah2121

We are having a party at my parents' house for everyone on Friday (our RD is on Thursday). My mother is forcing us to have people leave at a certain time because she thinks it's important I get my rest.  I know that's motherly advice, but it probably has lots of validity...even though I think I'll just be laying in bed all night full of excitement. 

Here's some advice I got from other brides....be sure whatever you do the night before allows you to leave without having to take care of anything.  In other words, choose an option that lets you hang out but then able to leave when you please, even if others want to stay longer.  I think meeting a bar and having some snacks sounds like the best option.  Good luck!

jonnysbride2010

I love the bowling idea but I see how meeting a bar might be easiest. People can come and go as they please and there is nothing for you to set up or clean up!

Blueyed228

I say bowl!  Thats a fun idea and laid back.  Plus, you dont run the risk of getting pulled into taking shots at the bar with your friends and being a hungover grump the morning of your wedding!  Lol.

doobietala

We are inviting people to the bar/restaurant where we are having the rehearsal dinner.  We have a little private room set off to the side of the restuarant and we are doing a hosted beer/wine bar with some passed apps.  I think it's a nice gesture for out of towners who don't really know the area and are spending enough money on the flights and hotel.  We don't plan on it going too late late though, I'm guessing 8-10pm or so.