Your wedding day is fast approaching, and before you say “I do,” there’s one more celebration to plan: the rehearsal dinner. Often overlooked in the flurry of wedding prep, the rehearsal dinner is the perfect opportunity to relax, reconnect, and show appreciation to your closest family and friends. Whether you're going for a formal vibe or a casual gathering, here are some essential tips to help you plan a memorable and stress-free rehearsal dinner—and even a welcome party if you're up for more fun!
1. Know the Purpose
The rehearsal dinner traditionally follows the wedding ceremony rehearsal (usually the night before the wedding). It’s an intimate gathering meant to:
Bring together immediate family, the wedding party, and sometimes out-of-town guests
Ease nerves and set a relaxed tone for the big day
Offer space for heartfelt speeches and more personal moments
2. Set the Guest List Early
Typically, the rehearsal dinner includes:
Immediate family
Bridal party + their significant others
Officiant (if applicable)
Out-of-town guests (optional but thoughtful)
Tip: If you're expecting a lot of out-of-town guests and want to include them without expanding the rehearsal dinner itself, consider hosting a separate welcome party (more on that below!).
3. Welcome Party vs. Rehearsal Dinner: What’s the Difference?
A welcome party is a more casual, all-inclusive event meant to greet all your guests—especially those traveling in for the big day. It often happens right after the rehearsal dinner and is open-invite.
Welcome Party Ideas:
Backyard cocktails with lawn games
Rooftop mixer
Late-night dessert bar or food truck meetup
Local bar take-over with a signature drink and playlist
Pro tip: Include details about the welcome party in your wedding website or with your invitation suite to avoid confusion.
4. Choose the Right Venues
Whether it's a cozy dinner or a festive welcome bash, the venue sets the tone. Consider:
Convenience: Choose a location near your hotel block or ceremony venue.
Size: Rehearsal dinner = intimate. Welcome party = bigger and more flexible.
Ambience: A formal restaurant, a rustic barn, or a beachfront patio—let your vibe lead.
5. Food & Drink: Keep it Easy and Crowd-Pleasing
For rehearsal dinner: go personal or local. Family-style Italian, upscale Southern comfort, or a curated tasting menu are always hits.
For welcome party: think fun and flexible. Grazing tables, passed apps, or taco and burger stations work great for larger groups.
6. Personalize the Experience
Both events are perfect opportunities to add your flair:
Slideshow or video montage
Custom playlists or live music
Photo guest book station at the welcome party
Thank-you toast or welcome speech from the couple
7. Keep the Timeline in Check
Here’s a suggested timeline for a night-before-the-wedding setup:
5:00 PM – Ceremony rehearsal
6:00 PM – Rehearsal dinner (for close family & wedding party)
8:00 PM – Welcome party kicks off (open to all guests)
10:30 PM – Wind down so everyone gets rest before the big day!
8. Delegate & Enjoy
If you’re planning both events, don’t go it alone. Whether the groom’s parents are hosting the rehearsal dinner or you’ve hired a planner, make sure each part of the evening has someone managing details.
Final Thoughts
The night before your wedding should be filled with connection, laughter, and love. Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a full-on welcome celebration (or both!), keep the focus on gratitude, togetherness, and setting a joyful tone for the big day ahead.
Here’s to a celebration that’s as memorable as the main event! 🥂
