Our last post focused on The Rehearsal and all that
it entails, so now we’re going to chat about The Rehearsal Dinner.
Typically hosted by the Groom’s parents, this event occurs
after the rehearsal of your ceremony. This is an event that you hubby-to-be
might want to be involved in a bit more, and if it’s alright by you, you should
let him pick the place, type of food and if there will be a theme. For some
ideas, check out this article on The Knot.
Most couples will have a semi-formal Rehearsal Dinner at a
local restaurant or even at the venue if they have on site catering or a
restaurant. The dress is business casual and the atmosphere is relaxed and
enjoyable. Everyone is excited, and a little nervous as they await the wedding
that is about to take place. The rehearsal dinner is the best time to present
your parents and wedding party with their gifts and to thank them for their
support, participation and love during your engagement. If you don’t like to
make grandiose speeches, take the time to chat to each person and thank them –
as you likely won’t have the time or the proper thought process to do it on
your actual wedding day.
Who pays for the Rehearsal Dinner? Usually the Groom’s
parents, but this is quite old fashioned as it was because the Bride’s parents
paid for the wedding. Nowadays, couples are paying for their own wedding, or
pitching in a 1/3 with both sets of parents. So when discussing the wedding
budget, be sure to factor in the Rehearsal Dinner. Work out a total and method
of payment that works for all parties involved.
Be sure to have fun at your rehearsal dinner, but we advise
that you keep alcohol consumption to a minimum and try to limit your salt
intake. You don’t want to be dehydrated or bloated on your wedding day. Enjoy
the company of your family and friends and be sure to enjoy the moment.
So, who’s invited to the Rehearsal Dinner? Parents,
Grandparents, the wedding party and their significant others and your officiant
(specifically if you’re a member of a church). If you have guests coming from
out of town for your wedding, it’s a nice gesture to invite them to the dinner
as well.
Whomever is hosting the event should send out the invites
about 3 weeks prior to the wedding. It’s usually assumed that there will be a
rehearsal followed by a dinner, but you should still send out a formal invite. Need some ideas? Check out these rehearsal dinner invitations by the Wedding Paper
Divas.
Wishing you a fabulous time at your Rehearsal Dinner!
