Planning your wedding? You might want to include a beautiful Southern tradition in your special day—the “House Party.”

What is the House Party Tradition?

In the South, weddings have a unique charm and a sense of community. One delightful tradition is the “House Party.” This custom allows the bride to involve more friends and family in her wedding without overwhelming the bridal party.

Key Elements of the House Party

Special Tasks

House party members are given meaningful roles that contribute to the seamless flow of the wedding day. These roles can include:

  • Serving the Cake: Helping ensure everyone gets a slice of that delicious wedding cake.
  • Guest Book Attendant: Sitting by the guest book and encouraging guests to leave their well-wishes.
  • Giving Toasts: Offering warm toasts at the rehearsal dinner or during the reception.
  • Gift Table: Overseeing the gift table and ensuring all presents are safely kept.
  • Ushers: Assisting guests with seating and helping them find their way around the venue.
  • Dismissing Tables: Helping with the orderly dismissal of tables during the reception.
  • Distributing Favors: Handing out small tokens of appreciation to wedding guests as they leave.

Involvement in Bridal Festivities

Members of the house party are not just limited to wedding-day duties. They’re included in all pre-wedding festivities, such as bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and the rehearsal dinner. This inclusion allows them to share in the excitement and joy of your upcoming nuptials.

Why Include a House Party?

Broaden Participation

Weddings are a time to celebrate with those closest to you. The house party tradition enables you to involve more friends and family in meaningful ways, even if they’re not standing with you at the altar.

Lighten the Load

With the house party taking on various tasks, you can ensure that the spotlight remains on the bridal party while still getting the help you need. It’s a win-win!

Celebrate Together

From the pre-wedding events to the big day, having a house party means more loved ones around you, sharing in every special moment.

How to Choose House Party Members

When selecting members for your house party, think about the friends and family who’ve been significant in your life. They don’t necessarily need to have a formal role in the bridal party to be part of your celebration.


The house party tradition is a wonderful way to include more of your loved ones in your wedding, ensuring they play a special part in your big day. It’s all about celebrating together and making cherished memories.