A party after the party? It's becoming perfectly acceptable to have a "happily ever after" party after your wedding reception.

Some couples opt to continue the time spent with family and friends with a party after the wedding at a parent's home. Others opt to go for a smaller wedding then later host a party at their home for all of those who couldn't be invited to the wedding.

Either way, these affairs are usually casual -- a barbecue or appetizers -- a place for people to have a snack, a drink and to keep the party going. They don't need to be expensive or extravagant, and they're a great opportunity to reflect the couple's personality. Do a beach theme, a barbecue or a pool party.

Either way, if your after-party costs as much as the reception, you're on the wrong track. This can be a great way to save some money on your reception and still have many relatives and friends celebrating with you. It's also a good choice for someone who prefers a smaller, more intimate wedding but doesn't want to leave anyone out of the celebration.

Since Ed and I are planning to have our reception in an Irish pub, which is having a live band that night, we're relying on word of mouth to let people know that when the reception ends at 9 p.m., everyone is welcome to stay and keep going. We figure we'll have the DJ make an announcement at the end of the wedding.

If you're planning on having a happily-ever-after party when you return from your honeymoon, plan to send invitations out a month or two before the party, much like you will with the wedding invitations. Explain that it's a casual affair and no gifts are required.

If you're having an after-party right after your reception, but in a different location, you might want to think about including a card announcing the party in with your wedding invitation.