Of all of the potential pre-wedding events that couples typically plan, the rehearsal dinner is arguably the most common get together associated with the big day. Its function is twofold: to celebrate the following day’s wedding with a more intimate gathering of just the closest family and friends, and, as a nice tie-in event to follow the ceremony rehearsal which normally takes place the day before the wedding.
Here are some rehearsal dinner ideas to consider as you plan this part of your wedding festivities.
Rehearsal Dinner Venue
Once the date and time of the rehearsal dinner is known, the next key decision you’ll need to make is the venue. Many couples and families opt to hold the dinner at a favorite restaurant in the area, but you might also consider a less traditional option such as a dinner cruise, festive cookout at home, or any other type of themed event that holds special meaning for you or your family.
If you are considering more than one venue as you narrow down your choices, be sure to jot down some key information on each option including the contact person’s name, phone number, email address, and website, as well as whether the venue has a private dining room, any special decor options, or other requirements you may need (for example, a projection screen if you plan to feature a video or slide show during the event.)
Decorating the Rehearsal Dinner
Depending on the venue, you probably don’t need to worry too much about decor and lighting; just pick a restaurant you love and already feel comfortable with and let them handle the ambiance. If you’ll be offering a buffet (at an outdoor dinner, for example) you could consider adding some greenery or festive lighting to make the evening even more magical.
Rehearsal Dinner Dress
While many brides will opt for a second dress for the rehearsal dinner (and perhaps even a third for the reception!), this dinner is meant to be relaxed, comfortable and intimate. It’s a wonderful opportunity for both sides of the family to come together and just spend some quality time over dinner, without the hustle and bustle of the big day.
You could certainly plan to wear a fancy rehearsal dinner dress, but you could also consider outfits that are still elegant but also comfortable–perhaps a pantsuit or skirt rather than a dress. When it comes to what to wear to the rehearsal dinner you’ll also want to consider the time of year, and plan for weather events in the case of an outdoor rehearsal dinner.
Rehearsal Dinner Invites
Who to invite? Great question. Obviously, your immediate families, siblings and spouses should be on the guest list, and optionally any close friends who are part of your bridal party. Some couples prefer to keep it to just the families, which is perfectly fine. Additionally, couples will also typically invite their wedding officiant who has just conducted the ceremony rehearsal prior to the dinner.
Wording for Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Depending on how formal you decide to make the rehearsal dinner, you may want to consider sending formal invitations out to your invited guests, being sure to include a reply card for RSVPs, any special dietary needs, and other enclosures including one for venue address and directions. For less formal events, an invitation via email is perfectly acceptable.
Some couples include a quick quote about marriage or love in the invite and then close with something like “Please join us for a rehearsal dinner to honor the marriage of…on [the date and time of the event] at [the name and address of your rehearsal dinner venue]. Please send rehearsal dinner RSVPs by [date].”
Who pays for the rehearsal dinner?
The rehearsal dinner is traditionally hosted by the groom’s parents, but it is also common for both sets of parents to host the event, or for the bride and groom to do so themselves. Whatever the decision, the rehearsal dinner event should be planned just like any other pre-wedding party–with attention to the little things and with an organized plan so as not to leave out any important details.
Rehearsal Dinner Speeches and Toasts
Just as the groom’s parents traditionally host the rehearsal dinner, the groom’s father will typically give the first speech of the evening and a toast to the soon-to-be married couple.
Beyond that, nothing is set in stone and you might even consider an “open-mic” style segment for more casual dinners, where anyone who would like to say something to the couple can have a chance. Since the best man and maid of honor typically prepare speeches for the actual wedding reception, it’s customary to let other members of the bridal party give speeches during the rehearsal dinner.
The bride and groom might also add a few reminders at the end of the evening for any important logistical details during the wedding the next day. Also, the rehearsal dinner is a popular time to distribute any gifts to loved ones such as gifts to your parents, bridesmaids or groomsmen.
Enjoy the evening–this should be a really fun event!!