Rehearsal Dinner Etiquette: Essential Tips and Traditions
Planning a rehearsal dinner is an important part of wedding preparations. This guide covers the essentials of rehearsal dinner etiquette, helping you navigate everything from timing and guest lists to venue choices and special moments.
When is it?
Most couples hold their rehearsal dinner the evening before the wedding, right after the ceremony run-through. However, you can schedule it whenever it fits best into your wedding plans.
Who pays?
Traditionally, the groom’s parents host and pay for the rehearsal dinner. Nowadays, many couples either cover the cost themselves or split it between both sets of parents. If you have a strong preference for the venue, discuss it with everyone involved in the planning.
Who's invited?
Your rehearsal dinner guest list should include all members of the wedding party (and their spouses or dates), parents of flower girls or ring bearers, all parents, stepparents, and grandparents of the bride and groom, and siblings who are not in the wedding party (plus their significant others). Often, the officiant and their spouse are also invited. If you have out-of-town guests, consider including them or hosting a separate, more intimate event for them.
How formal should it be?
The formality of your rehearsal dinner is up to the hosts but should never exceed the formality of the wedding itself. Once you receive the RSVPs for the wedding, send out invitations for the rehearsal dinner.
Where do we have it?
Keep it simple and choose a location that promotes relaxation and enjoyment. Popular options include restaurants with private rooms, someone’s backyard, or casual places like a clam shack or pizza parlor. The goal is to ensure everyone feels comfortable and has a good time.
Not-to-miss moments:
Toasts: The host, often the groom’s father, can start with a formal toast, followed by others, including the best man. Be prepared to thank those who toast you.
Gifts: Distribute thank-you presents to the bridesmaids and groomsmen, especially if it’s something they’ll use at the wedding.
Performances: Use this time for secular readings or favorite songs that aren’t included in the ceremony.
Special Presentations: Many couples share videos with footage from their past. Ensure a tech-savvy friend sets up the display so everyone can enjoy it.
