How to Word Rehearsal Dinner Invitations

The rehearsal dinner is typically held after the ceremony rehearsal. It can give the bride and groom a chance to finalize details with the bridal party. The dinner can also serve as an opportunity for family and friends to mingle before the wedding ceremony and reception. It is customary to invite the bride and groom's immediate families, the bridal party and anyone else who may be taking part in the wedding ceremony. While formal invitations are not expected, a written invitation will give you the opportunity to clearly communicate the details of the pre-wedding event. They can also be a fun way to create excitement for the gathering. Word the invitation in a way that credits the host and offers event details to the guests.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start the invitation by introducing the hosts for the dinner. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Smith request the pleasure of your company at the rehearsal dinner in celebration of Adam and Tracy's wedding."

2. Include the event details such as date and time. For example, "Dinner will be held at 8 o'clock p.m. on Friday, May 23."

3. Add in the location information including the venue, street address, city and state.

4. Word the invitation in a way that also gives guests details concerning the ceremony rehearsal. The invitation should reference the rehearsal's location and time. For example, "The dinner will immediately follow the wedding rehearsal, to be held at 6 o'clock p.m. at St. Mark's Church, 100 Main Street, Austin, Texas."

5. Include information on the appropriate attire only if the dinner will be a formal affair or if special, themed attire is requested. Most rehearsal dinners are more casual than the ceremony, with guests usually wearing something that would be appropriate for an evening out at a nice restaurant.

6. Include a request for an RSVP if the dinner is a large affair or if the exact number of guests is important for the dinner's preparation.

7. Print a basic map of the dinner location on the back of the invitation, or include a small map on a separate piece of paper. If guests will be required to drive from the wedding rehearsal to the dinner, include directions from one venue to the other. You can use a copy of a map you pull up on the Internet, or draw your own for a more personal touch.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider sending invitations to out-of-town guests who may be unfamiliar with the city where the wedding festivities are being held.
• Do not send invitations out too early. Guests may lose the important details before the event. Try to have the invitations in the mail about 2 weeks before the event.
• Thoroughly proof the information several times before printing to make sure the details are accurate. It is a good idea to let someone else verify the information as well.