The Rehearsal Dinner and What to Expect

by: Jane
5 minutes
Rehearsal Dinner Invitation on a plate with greenery and florals

The wedding rehearsal dinner is a pre-wedding event where the bride, groom, and their families come together to practice and plan the wedding ceremony. This event usually takes place the night before the wedding and provides an opportunity for both families to get to know each other better. While the main focus of the rehearsal dinner is to practice the wedding ceremony, it's also a time to relax and enjoy each other's company. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the rehearsal dinner, including what to expect, who to invite, and how to plan a successful event.

Who Should Attend the Rehearsal Dinner

The rehearsal dinner is typically attended by close family members, the wedding party, and sometimes out-of-town guests. If the bride and groom have children, they should also be included in the rehearsal dinner. It's also a good idea to invite the officiant and their spouse, as they will be an important part of the wedding ceremony. When deciding who to invite, keep in mind that the rehearsal dinner is a more intimate event than the wedding itself. It's a time for close family members and friends to come together and celebrate the upcoming wedding.

What Should You Expect at the Rehearsal Dinner?

The rehearsal dinner is a more relaxed event than the wedding. It's a time to unwind and enjoy each other's company before the big day. Typically, the dinner will take place at a restaurant or other venue, and the meal will be less formal than the wedding reception. You can expect to give toasts, and speeches may also be given by the bride and groom's parents, the best man, and the maid of honor. The bride and groom may also use this time to hand out gifts to their wedding party and other guests.

How to Plan a Successful Rehearsal Dinner:

When planning the rehearsal dinner, it's important to keep in mind that this is a separate event from the wedding itself. The rehearsal dinner should complement the wedding, but not compete with it. Here are some tips for planning a successful rehearsal dinner:

  1. Choose a venue: Select a venue that is convenient for everyone attending the rehearsal dinner. A restaurant or private dining room is a great option.
  2. Set a budget: Determine how much you want to spend on the rehearsal dinner, and stick to it. Remember that this is a separate event from the wedding, so you don't need to go overboard.
  3. Decide on the menu: Select a menu that complements the wedding, but is not too similar. Consider the dietary needs of your guests when choosing the menu.
  4. Plan the seating: Decide on the seating arrangement for the rehearsal dinner. You can choose to have assigned seating or open seating, depending on your preference.
  5. Send invitations: Many couples are opting to add an insert to their stacked invitation suite or pocket invites! This is a great way to specifically invite only your close friends and family to the rehearsal dinner.

To the Bride and Groom:

As the bride and groom, the rehearsal dinner is an important event that sets the tone for your wedding day. Here are a few things you should know to make the most out of your rehearsal dinner:

  1. Keep it relaxed: Remember that the rehearsal dinner is a more informal event than the wedding. Take this opportunity to relax, have fun, and enjoy spending time with your loved ones.
  2. Use it as a time to thank your wedding party: The rehearsal dinner is a great time to thank your wedding party for their support and dedication. Consider giving them small gifts or heartfelt speeches to show your appreciation.
  3. Keep it simple: Don't feel like you need to go all out for the rehearsal dinner. Keep it simple and focused on spending time with your loved ones.
  4. Don't forget the details: While the rehearsal dinner may be more relaxed, don't forget about the little details that will make the event special. Consider adding personal touches, such as decorations or a slideshow, to make the evening memorable.

To the Guests:

If you've been invited to a rehearsal dinner, it's important to know what to expect. Here are a few things you should know to ensure that you have an enjoyable evening:

  1. Dress appropriately: Dress code for the rehearsal dinner is usually more casual than the wedding itself, but it's still important to dress appropriately. Ask the bride and groom or wedding party for guidance if you're unsure what to wear.
  2. Be punctual: It's important to arrive on time for the rehearsal dinner. If you're running late, be sure to let the host know as soon as possible.
  3. Respect the schedule: While the rehearsal dinner may be a more relaxed event, it's still important to respect the schedule. If there are speeches or toasts, be sure to listen respectfully and avoid interrupting.
  4. Bring a gift (optional): It's not necessary to bring a gift to the rehearsal dinner, but if you'd like to show your appreciation for the bride and groom, consider bringing a small gift or card.
Rehearsal Dinner Invitation with flowers and plate

The rehearsal dinner is an important event that provides an opportunity for the bride, groom, and their families to come together and celebrate the upcoming wedding. It's a more relaxed event than the wedding itself, but still requires some planning and preparation. When planning your rehearsal dinner, remember to keep it simple, stick to your budget, and focus on spending time with your loved ones. By following these tips, you'll be sure to have a successful and enjoyable rehearsal dinner that sets the tone for a perfect wedding day.