Is a Bridal Brunch Necessary

JenandJeff2009

I know these are thrown by the bride to thank her attendants for being in the wedding.  Is this something that is absolutely necessary?  I'm trying to stay within our budget, but I don't want to not have one if it's expected.Thanks ladies.

ac_in_dc

Maybe other folks know better than me?? I think that they are traditional and used to be customary. But now they are not expected, and I'm not even sure that they're particularly common anymore?

pumpkinpumpkin

definitely not necessary. I do think it's important to feed the girls if they're going to be with you all day though. But calling it a "bridal brunch". Not necessary.

skhynes

Are you having a rehearsal dinner?  If so, I see no need for a brunch as well.

NuggetBrain

Nothing is necessary except a marriage certificate, the bride and groom, two witnesses and an official.  However, I would think that you should do something to show your appreciation for the fact your girls are spending their time and money to be a part of your wedding.  It doesn't have to be big and fancy - even something at your house, or a bridal BBQ would be fine.  That's also usually when you give them their bridal party gifts.

JenandJeff2009

Okay good.  Yes, we are having a rehearsal dinner, and we will be providing breakfast (bagels, fruit, mimosas and coffee) at the salon, and sandwiches for lunch before the cereomony at the church.  I didn't want them to think I was rude for not having one but it sounds like its not the norm anymore. Thanks!

Calypso1977

no brunch is required.  nor is a morning after brunch or an after party.

skhynes

What you are doing sounds absolutely fine.

georgia_bride09

No. I wanted to have one, but with a 2:30 ceremony, there just wasn't time. I didn't even end up getting to feed them at all due to logistical issues, but at least they all ate some hotel breakfast.

trix1223

Jen, you're doing plenty.  I've never actually seen a bridal brunch IRL.  What you're doing is what's typical in our circle.

JenandJeff2009

Thanks so much ladies!

salt78

I hope not because we aren't having one.

wdc*bride

I'd never heard of a bridal brunch till The Knot, so I obviously don't think it's necessary.

SparrowSong

Nobody I know who has gotten married has ever had one of these. The number of pre-parties people do get kind of ridiculous. I'd feel bad asking my girls to set aside yet another chunk of weekend for me and my wedding stuff. Thank them at the rehearsal dinner and call it good imo.

Peyton Lawrimore

Totally not necessary. I'm trying to decide the same thing right now.  I think it's more common in our area; I've been to several, but it's just one more expense to add in to the wedding cost. 

Kristin789

I was very surprised to see the other responses. Here, I don't know of a bride who has not had a bridal brunch or a tea, and we go to about three weddings a year (DH and I are both teachers.). Here's more information: http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/bridal-party/articles/bridesmaids-tea-basics.aspx

Kristin789

http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/bridal-party/articles/bridesmaids-tea-basics.aspx