Wedding Rehearsal Dinner

The Hosts

Proper etiquette dictates the wedding rehearsal dinner be hosted by the parents of the groom. If this is not possible however, there’s nothing wrong with other relatives, the parents of the bride or even the Happy Couple themselves doing the honors. This is one of those rules that are allowed to be broken.

Invitations?

While many hosts insist on mailing invitations, this is not necessary at all. Invitations can be issued verbally, over the telephone, or even via email. The hosts don’t even have to do the inviting themselves, though this is a nice touch. The bride and groom can let all the wedding rehearsal guests know the pertinent details. It’s usually a given that once the wedding rehearsal is over, all involved head over to the designated wedding rehearsal dinner location.

Who is Invited?

The rehearsal dinner is smaller and more intimate than the wedding reception and need not be an elaborate affair for hundreds of guests. The parents of the bride and groom should be in attendance as should all members of the wedding party. The Officiant should also be welcome. Depending on the hosts’ budget and where the dinner is held, inviting others is strictly optional. For instance, at many wedding rehearsal dinner, other family members such as the Happy Couple’s siblings and grandparents are invited. Sometimes dates for members of the wedding party and out of town wedding guests are also included. This is generous but is entirely up to the hosts.

Informal BBQ

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Location

Dinner can be held anywhere. A formal dinner at a rented room in a restaurant is one option. Another is an intimate affair at the hosts’ home. A wedding rehearsal dinner can be anything from a fancy catered affair to a barbecue in the back yard. It can be a picnic or a time to put on the good clothes. Any of these ideas are acceptable.

The Festivities

In addition to eating, there are a couple of other orders of business that need to be taken care of. The hosts, in most cases the parents of the groom, will probably wish to make a toast. In many cases, this will be done just after drinks are served, while waiting for the first course. Others may wish to follow suit and toast the Happy Couple, and this too is acceptable. At the end of the evening, the Happy Couple will probably wish to thank those who helped make their wedding possible, and give out gifts to members of their wedding party.

Tips

It’s best to end the party early and keep alcohol to a minimum in consideration of the day ahead. The next day will be a long one and everyone should be well rested with a clear head. It’s not recommended everyone stay up all night, especially if they will be drinking.

On the day of the wedding, everyone who was a part of the rehearsal dinner will know each other better and be more at ease with each other’s company. This will only enhance the day’s events..