How to Host a Successful Wedding Rehearsal Dinner

A wedding rehearsal dinner, which is usually planned by the groom's mother, may seem like a small step in planning an overall wedding. However, the dinner has to be held in a properly-sized venue. It must have a well-planned menu, and arrangements have to be made so all of the major participants can make the dinner. It also has to be within the wedding budget.

Instructions

1. Discuss the rehearsal schedule at the same time you make other wedding plans. Plan the dinner after the rehearsal, especially if you plan to serve alcohol.

2. Send invitations to the dinner a few days after the wedding invitations go out. They do not need to be elaborate or even in the same theme as the wedding invitation. Invite the officiant and that person's spouse, and any out-of-town guests.

3. Plan a dinner theme that fits your budget. These are usually casual events, so no one should expect a full-catered affair. Some wedding rehearsal dinners serve full-course meals, but ordering in is acceptable.

4. Make a schedule of events for the dinner that gives the bride and groom a moment to thank the wedding party and offer toasts. Some other events to schedule could be gifts from the couple to the wedding party and any games that will require group participation.

References

• The Knot: Wedding Planning