The rehearsal dinner is an opportunity for the wedding couple’s family and the members of the wedding party to socialize just before the big day. It is usually held the day before the wedding, right after the wedding rehearsal. It is also the best time to go over and clarify last minute details regarding the wedding.

While wedding rehearsal dinner etiquette is not set in stone to allow a few adjustments, there are some practices that are best to follow.

The Guest List

Preferably, aside from the immediate family of the couple, the guest list should only include the people who are required to be in the wedding rehearsal. As a courtesy, the officiating person is also invited, but he may choose not to attend, especially if he is not particularly close to the couple.

Formality

Many couples choose a more casual rehearsal dinner. But in general, rehearsal dinners can either be formal or informal. Couples who opt for a casual rehearsal dinner decide so because they are “reserving” the formality for the next day.

The Menu

Rehearsal dinner menus are not as elaborate as the wedding menu. A casual fare of pizza and pasta or barbeque and sandwiches is the common choice although for a formal gathering, a catered dinner is more appropriate. Serving alcohol is generally moderated, if not avoided, to keep the guests from feeling the effects the following day, at the wedding.

Gifts

While some guests may drop off their gifts for the couple, it is best, however, to have the couple take the opportunity to give gifts themselves. Many couples take this moment to present thoughtful gifts to their parents and the wedding attendants. This is to express the couple’s gratitude for their involvement in the wedding preparation.

The groom and his family are usually the ones in charge of the dinner but there are couples who prefer to arrange the event themselves while others opt to split the burden with their parents.

In conclusion, wedding rehearsal dinner etiquette is less strict that the etiquette for the wedding. But it is important to have proper guidelines to help everyone, especially the couple, enjoy the occasion.

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