Rise of Multi-Day Wedding Celebrations in Monterey & Carmel
Weddings are no longer just a one-day event. More and more couples are embracing the concept of multi-day wedding celebrations, transforming their nuptials into immersive experiences for their guests. This trend isn’t just about extending the party—it’s about creating unforgettable moments beyond the ceremony and reception. In Monterey and Carmel, California, couples are taking full advantage of the area’s breathtaking scenery, world-class attractions, and coastal charm to craft destination wedding weekends that their guests will talk about for years to come.
What is a Multi-Day Wedding?
The idea of a wedding weekend isn’t new; many cultures have long embraced multi-day celebrations, from Indian weddings with multiple ceremonies to the Jewish tradition of Shabbat dinners before the big day. However, modern couples are now incorporating these extended celebrations into their weddings, giving guests a chance to truly experience the location while maximizing quality time with friends and family. Couples are realizing that a single evening often flies by too quickly, leaving little time to connect with loved ones. The wedding weekend format allows for a more relaxed, intimate experience, where guests can bond over shared activities, explore the stunning Monterey Peninsula, and truly celebrate love in an unforgettable way.
Thinking Outside the Box
Instead of a traditional rehearsal dinner, many couples are opting for a welcome party the night before the wedding. This sets the tone for the weekend, giving guests a chance to mingle in a relaxed setting before the main event. Monterey offers plenty of iconic locations to kick off the festivities. Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row provide a perfect setting for a casual meet-and-greet, where guests can enjoy fresh seafood, scenic ocean views, and even a sea lion sighting or two. For a truly unique welcome event, couples can host a private gathering at the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, sipping champagne beside glowing jellyfish exhibits or having dinner with an incredible view of the Open Sea tank. Some couples treat their guests to an evening of awe-inspiring coastal views along 17-Mile Drive, with stops at scenic points like Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay for photos and cocktails.
Others are turning their welcome parties into pre-wedding dance nights, inspired by cultures that celebrate with music and dancing long before the wedding day. A lively evening with a local DJ dance party infused celebration sets the stage for a weekend filled with energy and excitement. “Know your crowd” and structure events around them.
What Makes a Multi-Day Wedding Special
Rather than spending the wedding morning confined to a hotel room, couples are organizing activities that showcase the beauty of the Monterey and Carmel region while keeping guests entertained. Many take their wedding parties on whale watching excursions in Monterey Bay, one of the best places in the world to witness these majestic creatures. Others plan kayaking adventures along the coast, offering breathtaking views and close encounters with sea otters and harbor seals. Wine lovers often take their guests on guided tours of Carmel Valley’s renowned wineries, enjoying a relaxed afternoon sampling some of California’s finest vintages. For those who prefer the outdoors, hiking along the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail provides a scenic and peaceful way to start the day.
The Main Event
Of course, the wedding itself remains the centerpiece of the weekend. Whether held at a stunning oceanfront estate, a historic venue in downtown Monterey, or a vineyard in Carmel Valley, the ceremony and reception should reflect the couple’s love story. A well-curated DJ ensures that the dance floor stays packed, while gourmet cuisine and top-tier service make the evening unforgettable. When guests have had time to relax and bond throughout the weekend, they bring a whole new level of excitement to the dance floor. From curated playlists that blend cultural traditions to surprise musical performances, the reception becomes an extension of the weekend’s celebrations.
Don’t Stop the Party
The fun doesn’t stop after the last dance. More couples are planning farewell brunches the morning after the wedding to wrap up the weekend on a high note. These final gatherings allow the newlyweds to personally thank their guests while sharing stories and laughter from the previous night. Some couples choose to host a relaxed picnic at Carmel State Beach, complete with breakfast burritos and mimosas by the water. And yes, alcohol is permitted on Carmel Beach! Others opt for a cozy brunch at a Carmel Valley winery. Where guests can savor locally sourced cuisine and fresh pastries. One of my favorites spots is the Folktale Winery.
For those looking to extend the festivities, attending the world-famous Monterey Jazz Festival can be a fantastic option. Taking place in one of the most scenic locations in California. The festival offers an unparalleled music experience. Allowing guests to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of incredible talent and lively energy. (The festival takes place September 26th-28th in 2025). Whether as a day-before warm-up or a post-wedding wind-down. This event provides a memorable way to enjoy world-class performances while celebrating love and togetherness.
For guests staying a bit longer, couples often provide recommendations for additional activities. From a day at Carmel State Beach to a round of golf at Pebble Beach. Or a visit to the Monterey Reggae Festival, (Cali Roots) extending the magic of the weekend just a little longer. California Roots takes place May 23rd-25th in 2025.
Why I Chose to have a Multi-Day Wedding Celebration
At its core, a multi-day wedding isn’t just about stretching the party. It’s about creating lasting memories in a setting that means something special to the couple. Monterey and Carmel provide the perfect backdrop, offering breathtaking scenery, incredible experiences, and world-class hospitality. As a wedding DJ who has been part of thousands of weddings. I can say with certainty that the best weddings aren’t just about the big day. They’re about the little moments leading up to it—the toasts shared at a welcome dinner. The early morning coffee and donut runs before the ceremony, the post-wedding hugs at a farewell brunch. These moments, these experiences, are what turn a wedding into a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
If you’re planning your destination wedding in Monterey or Carmel, consider making it a full wedding weekend, or mid-week event. Not only will it give you and your guests an unforgettable experience. But it will ensure that every part of your journey—from the first cheers to the final goodbyes—is filled with joy, connection, and celebration.
By DJ Justin Warwick of DJ Enterprises Mobile Disc Jockey, aka DJ Warwick
Justin Warwick. The dynamic force behind DJ Enterprises Mobile Disc Jockey, has been a trailblazer in professional wedding DJ entertainment since 1989. Serving the Central Coast Monterey Bay area and beyond. Justin specializes in creating unforgettable experiences for weddings, corporate events, New Years, anniversaries, birthdays, and a variety of social events. Known for his ability to bring joy, fun, excitement, and energy to every event. Justin’s expertise ensures a memorable experience for you and your guests. One of Justin’s standout contributions to the wedding world is the “Table Dash game,” also known as the “Photo Dash game”, a high–energy reception activity he created in the early–2000s.
With thousands of successful events under his belt, Justin Warwick is renowned for his exceptional DJ and MC skills. He has a unique ability to read the crowd and tailor the music to fit the atmosphere perfectly. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. Justin’s extensive music knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment guarantee a seamless and enjoyable event.
For those planning an event in the Carmel, Pebble Beach, Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay area. The Monterey Wedding DJ Blog offers a wealth of tips and ideas. It’s the most-read wedding DJ blog in California. Providing insights into crafting the perfect playlist. Reading about local venues, and staying updated on the latest trends in wedding and event planning.
“I’d love the opportunity to be your wedding or companies Holiday Office Party DJ and provide Photo Booth services.” Reach out to me at [email protected] or visit (https://djwarwick.com) for more information. I look forward to hearing from you!
Explore the website for more details on services, pricing, and client testimonials to see why DJ Justin Warwick is the best choice for your next event. https://djwarwick.com
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Photo credits: Photographers David McElwee and Tam Pham
