I've decided to address some rehearsal dinner etiquette questions that I have been asked more & more frequently. It seems that weddings, bridal parties, vendors, showers, rehearsal dinners, etc. seem to need a handbook with all the common rules of etiquette & traditions.
I've said it time & time again; you make your own rules. However, if you are trying to stick to tradition & want to avoid embarrassment by breaking the "rules", I'll answer some of the most common questions I get asked.
Q: Who do I invite to our rehearsal dinner?
A: This is up to you. If it isn't in your budget to have everyone you would like, that is perfectly acceptable. Generally speaking though, you invite immediate family, your bridal party, out of town guests, your officiant & their spouse. You can also extend the invitation to your wedding coordinator.
Q: Do I have to invite every one's spouse in the bridal party?
A: If it is not in the budget, kindly word it in the invitation. You can also personally explain your concern to each attendant. Traditionally speaking, every one's spouse is typically invited.
Q: Do I have to have my rehearsal dinner the actual day before the wedding? Can I have it a couple days before?
A: Absolutely! As a coordinator, I recommend it! You don't want a hungover bridal party, if that's your type of crowd. Don't have it too far in advance though; you don't want your bridal party to forget the rehearsal.
Q: Do I have to send out invitations?
A: Just like any event in your life, the invitation depends on the type of event you're throwing. If you are having a large private dinner at a nice venue, you should probably send out coordinating invitations. If you're having a laid back barbecue, a simple evite will suffice.
Q: Who is responsible for hosting the rehearsal dinner?
A: Traditionally, the Groom's family hosts the rehearsal dinner. It is perfectly acceptable for the couple to host their own rehearsal dinner if it isn't in the Groom's parent's budget.
Q: Is it okay to just serve appetizers & cocktails at the rehearsal dinner?
A: Yes. Just make sure to word it on your invitations.
Q: Who makes a toast at the rehearsal dinner?
A: Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner is more geared toward the Groom & his family. If the Groom's parents host the dinner, they can make a toast. The groom can also toast to his Bride-to-be. It's perfectly acceptable if any close friends/bridal party would like to contribute. Traditionally, the bride does not toast at the rehearsal dinner or the wedding. Pin It
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