With rehearsal dinners typically having little to no formal timeline, shorter times than the wedding day, and more casual attire, they are inarguably less hectic and eventful than the wedding day. The evening provides a relaxing night of greeting guests and introducing them to each other. If I haven’t convinced you yet, here are the key reasons you shouldn’t stress over the rehearsal dinner.
Susan Dunne remarks, “Traditionally your rehearsal dinner usually takes place the evening before your wedding following the ceremony run-through with your wedding planner. I tell our clients this can happen at anytime the day or two prior to the wedding. We have had our rehearsal in the morning and the couple heads out to a brunch vs. a dinner. It’s a win as they can get squeeze in a quiet and peaceful evening the night prior to their big day. Don’t stress about having to keep it traditional or don’t stress over the formality. Do what makes you and your fiancé happy, what truly represents you, it’s ok to have small bites and cocktails… Work with your planner to see what best suits you, your budget and style.”
Susan Dunne also adds, “Don’t stress over the guest list. It’s nice to invite your guest who are coming from afar, however, it’s ok to just invite both immediate family, guest who have a part in your ceremony/reception, bridal party and their significant others.” You don’t need to worry about inviting all of your guests to the dinner if it’s not in the budget or if you simply want to spend the evening with a smaller crowd.
Wedding planner Jacqueline Hallgarth stresses that the rehearsal dinner should be a joyful and relaxed evening that focuses on family bonding. She says, “Rehearsal Dinners & Welcome Receptions traditionally kick off an eventful Wedding Weekend. Since this would be the first time both sides’ closest family and friends are in one setting, you don’t want to put too much pressure on yourself and the event. Especially with a new family dynamic! Stress or anxiety on any Pre-Wedding Event can bleed into your emotions on the big day. Have fun with the Rehearsal Dinner and make it playful! If you and your fiancé are having a great time, this will translate to your guests and blissful Wedding Weekend!”
Nancy and Anne of Fete in France note that “The rehearsal dinner is just that – a rehearsal – or preamble to the main event. In particular with destination weddings, rehearsal dinners act more as a welcome event and are a great way to kick off the festivities. One way to keep stress levels at bay is to have the rehearsal dinner be a less formal event, such as a cocktail party with heavy hors d’oeuvres. The cocktail party format can be chic and sophisticated, or laid back and casual, with fantastic food stations and even specialty cocktails. An added bonus it that avoids having to do yet another table plan, and allows you to mingle with your guests throughout the entire evening.”
Cavin Elizabeth is a wedding film photographer based in San Diego, California. Her wedding work has taken her all over the United States and abroad. In addition to being a photographer, Cavin is an educator and an avid blogger of wedding planning tips for brides and grooms. She authored the book A Bride’s Guide to a Picture Perfect Wedding, which teaches couples how to make wedding plans that are best for photography.
Photography: Cavin Elizabeth Photography
