Invitation Rehearsal Dinner

Invitation Rehearsal Dinner

Unique Rehearsal Dinner Invitations are the best way to make sure everyone knows when and where to go for the wedding rehearsal, as well as what to expect after all of their hard work. Because of the costs associated with the rest of the wedding, you'll want to choose wedding rehearsal invitations that are inexpensive. Here are some helpful tips and suggestions you might want to remember when preparing your rehearsal dinner wedding invitations.

Who Decides Who Gets Wedding Rehearsal Invitation

Knowing who to invite can seem like the trickiest part of getting rehearsal dinner invitations ready to send. However, it's actually one of the simplest parts of all if you know the etiquette rules. Generally, you don't want a huge guest list to the event. The meal's tone should be relaxed and intimate. The first people on the guest list are always going to be the wedding party because they must attend the rehearsal as practice for the big event. Usually, the parents of both the bride and the groom are also invited. When parents on one side or both sides are divorced, you should still send rehearsal cards to both sets of parents. The only reason you might reconsider is if you're the one paying and you don't like the idea of your former spouse and his/her new partner sitting across the table.

Other close family members, such as grandparents or siblings, can also be invited. The list should be created in advance because you'll want to get the rehearsal dinner wedding invitations in the mail about two weeks before the event so people can make arrangements for attending.

Planning Your Rehearsal Dinner

Decisions about the invitation rehearsal dinner event should be made primarily by the person paying the bill. Traditionally, the responsibility for paying for this part of the wedding has fallen on the groom's side of the family. Whoever pays for the food also covers the costs of the invites and their mailing.

The next big question is going to be the menu. Here you do have some flexibility. Some families choose to do something more casual, such as a barbecue or cook-out but that's not always easy if the rehearsal takes place in the afternoon. Another idea is to work with the catering company who is also handling the reception. Not only will they probably be able to do a job you'll trust but you might even get a discount for the additional work. It never hurts to ask. If nothing else, you could also make reservations for everyone at a good restaurant or you could always invite everyone back to your home for some home cooking. The choice is yours.

Who Gives the Rehearsal Dinner Toasts?

The good news is you don't need entertainment at your meal. Everyone will be so exhausted from the rehearsal and anxious about the upcoming wedding that a band, DJ, or other performer would just be a nuisance. However, the bride and groom usually do give a short toast during the dinner. It's a good idea to give them the head's up about this responsibility so they can be ready to say a few words. If they haven't had time to prepare, the invitation rehearsal dinner may be overshadowed by pre-wedding embarrassment.