What Do You Do at a Rehearsal Dinner? A Simple Guide to This Pre-Wedding EventIf you’ve been invited to a rehearsal dinner, you might be wondering what it’s all about. This pre-wedding event is more than just a meal it’s a time for family, friends, and the wedding party to relax, bond, and prepare for the big day. Whether you’re the bride, groom, or guest, knowing what to do at a rehearsal dinner helps everything go smoothly.
What Is a Rehearsal Dinner?
A rehearsal dinner is typically held the night before the wedding, following the ceremony rehearsal. It’s an intimate gathering for the wedding party and close family members. The event allows everyone to practice for the wedding and enjoy a meal together in a relaxed setting.
Who Attends the Rehearsal Dinner?
While every couple may organize it differently, common guests include
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The bride and groom
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Parents of the couple
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Bridesmaids and groomsmen
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The officiant (sometimes)
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Close relatives and out-of-town guests
This event helps everyone involved in the wedding get to know each other better before the ceremony.
What Happens During a Rehearsal Dinner?
1. Rehearsing the Ceremony
Before the dinner, the wedding party usually gathers at the venue to rehearse the ceremony. This includes walking down the aisle, standing positions, timing, and other important details. It helps reduce nerves on the wedding day.
2. Welcoming Guests
Once everyone arrives at the dinner location, there’s usually a casual period of mingling. The couple or hosts welcome guests, thank them for coming, and sometimes offer drinks or appetizers.
3. Dinner Is Served
The main event is, of course, the meal. This could be a sit-down dinner, buffet, or even a backyard barbecue depending on the style of the wedding. It’s less formal than the reception but still a special gathering.
Giving Toasts and Speeches
One of the most memorable parts of a rehearsal dinner is the toasts. Unlike the wedding reception where speeches are more formal, rehearsal dinner toasts are often heartfelt, casual, and filled with personal stories.
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The groom or bride may thank their families
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Parents might share emotional thoughts or memories
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Friends can tell light-hearted stories
It’s a space for laughter, reflection, and connection.
Sharing Stories and Creating Memories
After toasts, the evening often becomes more relaxed. Guests talk, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. This is one of the few chances people from different parts of the couple’s life come together before the ceremony.
Some couples also show slideshows or videos of their relationship journey, which adds a personal touch to the evening.
Giving Gifts (Optional)
Some couples use this time to give gifts to the wedding party as a thank-you for their support. These gifts might include
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Personalized items
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Accessories for the wedding day
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Handwritten notes
This is totally optional, but it’s a thoughtful gesture that many couples choose to include.
Dress Code for a Rehearsal Dinner
The dress code usually depends on the venue and theme. Most rehearsal dinners are semi-formal or dressy casual. Guests should ask the couple or check the invitation if they’re unsure.
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For men collared shirts, slacks, or blazers
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For women dresses or a nice blouse with skirt/pants
Rehearsal Dinner Etiquette
To keep things comfortable and enjoyable, here are a few simple etiquette tips
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Arrive on time, especially if you’re part of the ceremony
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RSVP to help the hosts plan ahead
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Be respectful during speeches and toasts
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Offer help if the couple or hosts seem overwhelmed
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Don’t overdrink, even if alcohol is served
This is still part of the wedding festivities, so behaving respectfully is key.
Why Is the Rehearsal Dinner Important?
Though not mandatory, a rehearsal dinner serves important purposes
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It gives the couple a chance to personally thank their loved ones
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It sets the tone for the wedding day
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It eases nerves and confusion for the wedding party
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It creates a more connected, joyful atmosphere
It’s a blend of practice and celebration.
Rehearsal Dinner vs. Wedding Reception
Many people confuse the rehearsal dinner with the reception, but they’re very different
| Aspect | Rehearsal Dinner | Wedding Reception |
|---|---|---|
| When | Night before wedding | After wedding ceremony |
| Guests | Close friends & family | All invited wedding guests |
| Vibe | Intimate, relaxed | Festive, formal |
| Purpose | Preparation & connection | Celebration of marriage |
Understanding the difference helps guests know what to expect.
If you’re attending or planning a rehearsal dinner, know that it’s more than just another event it’s a meaningful time to connect, express gratitude, and get ready for the big day. Whether you’re giving a toast, enjoying dinner, or simply sharing stories, the key is to be present, relaxed, and supportive.
The answer to What do you do at a rehearsal dinner? is simple you gather, you connect, you rehearse, and you celebrate love and friendship.