How long to wait for the AHR

[Jennkn87]

Hello All!

Did anyone have any issues trying to decide how long to wait for your AHR after you return? I want to be able to get settled in and have time to get the venue ready, which I will be able to do a couple weeks in advance I'm guessing. I don't want to wait too long as well. My biggest thing is, I would love to display my DW photos at the reception. How long is the normal wait time for them to send your pictures to you? I really would love to base my reception around the guests being able to see the photos and maybe video if I decide to have one? Any insights? Thanks! 

[babystace1985]

Along the same lines I'm wondering how long is too long?

[Jennkn87]

I decided to wait about 4 or so weeks after the date of our ceremony. It gives us time to get home and get back into the swing of things before having to rush and get everything ready for the reception as well.

[babystace1985]

Honestly I don't think any time is "too long." It might feel a little weird if you wait too long, but your friends will be happy to celebrate with you even if it's a "surprise anniversary" celebration (if you wanted a really private wedding for example. I have some friends who waited until they were married one year before telling anyone). That's not a usual scenario though. As long as you do it with enthusiasm and you're genuine about it, the timing doesn't matter as much.

Great! Thanks for the tip!

[amarie4713]

I'm wondering this same thing! We're not getting married until the end of November in 2014. November 21st actually.  And the next weekend is Thanksgiving and then we're coming up to Christmas and Christmas parties and having to work around busier schedules.  We talked about waiting until the middle or end of January. That would put us about 6-8 weeks, does that seem too long?

 

I just want people to be able to make it since our wedding is only going to be about 20 people. What do you guys think?

[jrebecky]

Quote:

Originally Posted by amarie4713 
 

I'm wondering this same thing! We're not getting married until the end of November in 2014. November 21st actually.  And the next weekend is Thanksgiving and then we're coming up to Christmas and Christmas parties and having to work around busier schedules.  We talked about waiting until the middle or end of January. That would put us about 6-8 weeks, does that seem too long?

 

I just want people to be able to make it since our wedding is only going to be about 20 people. What do you guys think?

I actually just got married on 11/01/13.  We struggled with this for awhile, especially the holiday aspect of it and the weather.  We live in Cleveland.  We have family all over the place - we didn't want it to be winter and have people not be able to make it due to the weather.  We actually decided to have our "at-home reception", which I don't even call it that anymore, in June 2014.  That way it's nice weather.  We can have it outside - I want to do a garden party.  Plus, we have TONS of teachers on both sides of the family, so this way they'll be out of school and that's not an issue.  I really think you can do it whenever.  Ours is really just an oppportunity for family that couldn't travel to Jamaica to celebrate our marriage.  We already have the pictures and video.  Plus, we've been home for a week now and I couldn't even imagine dealing with organizing and finalizing another function.  I give a lot of credit to those that do!!

[Ywilliams315]

Hi We get married on 20th May 2014. We arrive back in the UK on 28th May and having our reception on 14th June. We was originally planning on the 7th but the venue was booked. I honestly believe it's up to you and your h2b and don't worry what others think, they should feel privilege that your wanting them to be a part of your celebrations xx

[TraceyT]

We are getting married on January 14, 2014 and have our AHR planned for April 12th. Originally we were going to have it in Feb, but that date wasn't available at our venue, so we decided to wait until everyone important would be able to come (FI's has several family members that fly south for the winter, so they will be back by april). I was concerned that it would be too long after the wedding, but who cares, they get to party, they'll enjoy it regardless of if its a couple weeks or a few months after. I just have to make sure I still fit my dress....

[REP]

same question

[megthomson]

Great question! We are getting married on 12/5 so the holidays will just starting when we get back. Was thinking January or February but really wanted an outdoor summer backyard BBQ.....I wonder if I sent those invites around January it would work to do an early summer reception? I also want to have my pictures done so can't be too soon. Decisions, decisions!