The vows have been said, rings exchanged and rice tossed. As the couple stand together after having promised to love, hold and cherish, a wedding ceremony is often described as one of the most special days of one’s life.

But with the formalities out of the way, thoughts swiftly turn to making sure that one of the most memorable days in a lifetime is complemented by one of the most special nights!

Here are some of the top tips for making that special day last just a little longer.

Stockholm area:

Villa Källhagen. A calm oasis with a lush garden. It’s hard to believe this spot is no more than ten minutes away from Stockholm’s hectic city centre. This 19th century residence on the island Djurgården overlooks the water, and offers a seasonally inspired menu for wedding parties of up to 120 guests.

Skebo Herrgård. Organic, yet exclusive produce is key at this 18th century mansion in Roslagen, complete with wings and a beautiful park perfect for holding your wedding toast. Skebo Herrgård, an hour outside of Stockholm, can hold up to 75 guests and is open year-round, making it a great spot whether you’re longing for a snow-glittering winter wedding, or a summer wedding in full bloom.

Gothenburg area:

Gunnebo Slott. A palace beautifully situated between two lakes, with three lovely gardens, Gunnebo Slott, just south of the city, offers a feast inspired by its 18th century origins, for up to 65 guests. Dishes vary with the season, and whenever possible ingredients from the castle’s own kitchen garden are used.

Villa Odinslund. This turn-of-the-century villa in Gothenburg’s leafy residential area Örgryte offers the perfect combination of a central location with an idyllic setting and large garden. Villa Odinslund promises to have some of the west coast’s best-known chefs preparing your sumptuous feast for up to 110 guests.

Malmö area:

Örenäs Slott. This Baroque palace from the turn-of-the-century has beautiful surroundings and magnificent views overlooking the waters of Öresund and the island Ven.

Kronovalls Vinslott. In the middle of Österlen’s beautiful landscapes, Kronovalls Vinslott has two churches right next door. Enjoy a wedding party based on seasonal produce in the palace’s Empire Hall, decorated with painted ceilings and gold leaf, or raise a glass of champagne to the happy couple in the palace gardens.

Splurge!

Häringe Palace. This luxury option has been hosting weddings since the 18th century, and isn’t scared to call itself “one of the most elegant wedding venues around Stockholm, and in the whole of Sweden”. Arrive at the palace in style by boat through Stockholm’s beautiful archipelago, or take a 30 minute drive from the city centre.

Budget options:

If the idea of splurging on a palace doesn’t appeal, there are options that won’t burn quite such a deep hole into your pocket. Set up a party tent in your back garden, rent one of the 1,400 or so local heritage centres (hembygdsgård) around the country, or why not go alternative and plan a picnic wedding?