Imagine this… Your closest friends and family arrive for your engagement party and, surprise, they’re really there for your wedding! Maybe you’re looking to eschew the drama of a big bash, or maybe you simply have a smaller budget to work with. Whatever your reasons, a surprise wedding can be an intriguing alternative to a more traditional party.

More and more couples who wish to sidestep a lavish affair but still want something special are now forgoing traditional nuptials for a surprise party they spring on their guests. And what could be easier than by inviting them to another big party, to hide the ruse? While a surprise wedding offers the feel of an impromptu elopement, behind the scenes it still involves a great deal of planning and organization.

Be Sure a Surprise Wedding Is Right for You

First things first. Before you start formulating your secret celebration plans, take some time thinking about if you and your partner are both okay with giving up some of the traditional pre-wedding festivities and gifts. Bypassing a conventional wedding also often means missing out on some of the fun that goes with it, like having a bridal shower, bachelorette or bachelor party.

But, if you’re the type of couple that really doesn’t want all the fuss, attention or pressures of planning a big wedding, then you may be well suited to this type of wedding!

So, Who Do You Tell?

The whole goal is to keep things under wraps until the big reveal by telling only the people you absolutely need to, such as your wedding vendors and their staff. This is where hiring a great team of professional wedding vendors will be of the utmost importance, since you won’t be able to ask many friends or family to participate. But, in our opinion, sharing the secret with your parents could be a good idea! This is especially true if you’re worried about how they could react on the big day. Plus, they might be excited and happy to be part of the planning, and in on the secret.

How to Get Everyone There

To give credence to your ruse, you’ll need a party-worthy occasion, such as a milestone birthday or your engagement. This helps to stress the importance of your guests’ attendance without giving away the real reason. Also, your cover story and invitation should match the style of your actual event; for example, don’t use a casual backyard barbecue as your ruse if you’re hosting a formal cocktail party.  Another tip that will help the fake event look legit, is sending out the invites 4-6 weeks in advance. That invite timeline is more in keeping with a Birthday, Anniversary or Engagement party, so your guests will not expect what’s coming!

Don’t Forget The Logistics

Even with a surprise affair, you’ll still need to secure the traditional wedding basics, such as getting your marriage license and hiring an officiant, as well as hiring your caterer and entertainment. Think about the style of ceremony and reception you want, both of which will require a few tweaks to keep the secret wedding concealed. You’ll also still need to have an approximate guest count when you meet with your caterer so that they can work with you to create a delicious menu that will complement your party size and vibe!