In last week’s blog post, we covered the basic details of wedding rehearsals. As we wrote then, rehearsing your wedding ceremony is a great way to ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day, and can really boost your confidence. Naturally, this will also help to keep your stress levels in check.

Avoiding unnecessary stress, of course, is crucial. Unfortunately, the days and weeks leading up to a wedding can be more taxing than we’d like. We’re sure that most people will appreciate anything that helps them to feel relaxed and calm during this busy time. That’s why, in this week’s blog post, we’d like to tell you what we know about rehearsal dinners.

Following your wedding rehearsal with a meal is a great opportunity to enjoy a little leisure time in the days before your wedding. This, of course, can really help to reduce any stress you may be experiencing. If this sounds like something that might interest you, we hope that the following advice will help you to decide whether you’d like to have a rehearsal dinner.

What Exactly Is a Rehearsal Dinner?

The rehearsal dinner is a North American tradition which is growing in popularity in other parts of the world. It is typically a less formal meal than the wedding reception, and is attended by fewer guests. Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner is held after the rehearsal, often on the night before the wedding ceremony.

Who Should I Invite?

This, of course, is entirely up to you. However, at a minimum, the rehearsal dinner should be attended by everyone who was present at the rehearsal, as well as any immediate family who were not present. You should also consider inviting any guests who will be travelling long distances to attend your wedding. Beyond that, you can invite as many or as few people as you like.

Where Should I Hold It?

Again, this is up to you, and you should feel free to think creatively. A popular option is to hold the rehearsal dinner at a restaurant immediately after the rehearsal. A less formal option, which may be more suitable for larger groups, is to hold the dinner at a residence. Traditionally, the groom’s parents act as hosts. Alternatively, perhaps another friend or family member will be willing to volunteer their home for use as a venue. If the weather is suitable, a garden party could be very charming!

How Should I Invite Guests?

If your rehearsal dinner will take place at a restaurant, or any other venue where a headcount is required, you’ll need guests to RSVP. In this case, it’s best to send invitations to the rehearsal dinner at around the same time as you send wedding invitations. This will ensure that everyone has a chance to get their schedule in order and RSVP in plenty of time.

Of course, for venues where a headcount is not required, you can invite guests however you please.

Is There Anything Else I Should Know?

You should bear in mind that your rehearsal dinner can be whatever you’d like it to be. It can be indoors or outdoors, large or small, formal or informal. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination and come up with something unusual. The most important thing you should take away is that the rehearsal dinner is an opportunity for your guests to mingle, and for you to let your hair down before the big day. We hope you’ve found this helpful.