As the wedding day approaches, there are many traditions and events that need to be planned, including the rehearsal dinner. The rehearsal dinner is an essential part of the wedding celebration, and it’s an opportunity for the couple, their families, and wedding party members to come together and enjoy a relaxing evening before the big day.
However, one question that often arises when planning the rehearsal dinner is, “Who comes to rehearsal dinner wedding?” While the answer may seem simple at first, there are specific etiquette rules that need to be followed to ensure that everyone who should be invited is included while also keeping the guest list manageable.
In this article, we’ll explore the traditional guidelines for creating the rehearsal dinner guest list, discuss some exceptions to the rules, and offer tips to help make the planning process as smooth as possible. Whether you’re the bride or groom, a family member, or a member of the wedding party, understanding the etiquette of the rehearsal dinner will help ensure that everyone has a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Read on to discover who should be invited to the rehearsal dinner and learn how to create a guest list that will make everyone feel welcome and appreciated!
The Bride and Groom’s Immediate Families
One of the most important groups of people to invite to a rehearsal dinner is the bride and groom’s immediate families. This includes the parents of both the bride and groom, as well as siblings who are not part of the wedding party. It’s essential to make sure that they feel included and appreciated, as they’ve likely played a significant role in the planning and preparation of the wedding. In addition, they will be instrumental in helping to make the wedding day run smoothly, so it’s essential to build positive relationships with them.
When sending out invitations to the rehearsal dinner, be sure to communicate clearly and specifically who is invited from the immediate family. This can help to avoid any confusion or hurt feelings. It’s also a good idea to consider any special dietary requirements or preferences that family members may have. Accommodating these requests can go a long way in making them feel welcomed and cared for.
During the rehearsal dinner, take the time to make everyone feel comfortable and included. This is an excellent opportunity to bond with your new family members and get to know them better. Encourage conversation, share stories, and make sure to thank everyone for their love and support. Remember that the rehearsal dinner is an intimate event, so use it as an opportunity to create special memories with your family.
Finally, it’s a nice touch to give a small gift or token of appreciation to the immediate family members who attend the rehearsal dinner. This can be something as simple as a handwritten note or a small bouquet of flowers. These gestures go a long way in making people feel appreciated and valued, and they will be remembered long after the wedding day has passed.
Definition of Immediate Family Members
Parents: Traditionally, the parents of the bride and groom are invited to the rehearsal dinner. This includes step-parents and adoptive parents.
Siblings: Brothers and sisters of the bride and groom, including half-siblings and step-siblings, are also usually invited to the rehearsal dinner.
Grandparents: Grandparents are typically included in the rehearsal dinner guest list, especially if they are close to the bride and groom.
Immediate family members are those who are closely related to the bride and groom. It’s important to remember that each family is different and some may have unique circumstances. Be sure to discuss with the couple and their families who they want to include in the rehearsal dinner.
Responsibilities of Immediate Family Members at Rehearsal Dinner
The Parents of the Bride and Groom: Tradition holds that the parents of the bride and groom host the rehearsal dinner, but it’s becoming more common for the couple to host it themselves. Regardless of who hosts, the parents typically give speeches and toasts welcoming the guests and thanking those who helped make the wedding possible.
The Siblings: Siblings of the bride and groom may have various responsibilities, such as being a bridesmaid or groomsman, giving a speech, or helping to coordinate the wedding weekend’s events. At the rehearsal dinner, siblings may also give toasts or help with any last-minute preparations.
The Grandparents: The grandparents of the bride and groom are typically included in the rehearsal dinner festivities. They may give toasts or offer words of wisdom to the couple. It’s essential to ensure that they feel comfortable and have the assistance they need, such as transportation to and from the event.
The Children: If the bride and groom have children, they may be included in the rehearsal dinner. In this case, it’s a good idea to plan some kid-friendly activities or provide a separate space for them to play while the adults socialize. It’s also essential to ensure that the children have appropriate supervision.
Tips for Immediate Family Members Hosting the Rehearsal Dinner
Plan ahead: Start planning the rehearsal dinner well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Create a budget, select a venue, and choose a menu that will accommodate everyone’s dietary needs and preferences.
Coordinate with the wedding party: Coordinate with the wedding party to ensure that the rehearsal dinner fits into everyone’s schedule. Make sure to invite all members of the wedding party, as well as their plus ones.
Add personal touches: Add personal touches to the rehearsal dinner to make it special for the bride and groom. Display photos of the couple throughout the venue, incorporate their favorite foods or drinks into the menu, or create a slideshow of their relationship.
Wedding Party Members
One of the most important groups of people that should be in attendance at the rehearsal dinner are the members of the wedding party. These individuals are typically the closest friends and family members of the bride and groom and play an important role in the wedding ceremony.
It is important for the members of the wedding party to attend the rehearsal dinner in order to go over the details of the wedding ceremony and ensure that everyone is on the same page. This is especially important for the maid of honor and best man, who often have special roles to play in the ceremony.
Other members of the wedding party who should attend the rehearsal dinner include the bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers. These individuals often have specific responsibilities to carry out during the ceremony and should be familiar with the details.
It is also common for the parents of the members of the wedding party to attend the rehearsal dinner as well. This is a good opportunity for them to meet one another and get to know the other important people in their child’s life.
Finally, it is important to remember that the members of the wedding party often travel from out of town to attend the wedding. Providing them with a fun and memorable rehearsal dinner can help them feel appreciated and valued for their important role in the wedding.
Who are Considered as Wedding Party Members?
The wedding party members are usually composed of close friends and family members of the couple. The maid of honor and best man are considered to be the top positions in the wedding party. The other members of the wedding party may include bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers, ushers, and junior bridesmaids or groomsmen. Depending on the couple’s preference, the wedding party can be large or small.
It’s important to note that the wedding party members are responsible for helping the couple prepare for the wedding day, including planning the bridal shower and bachelor or bachelorette parties. On the wedding day, they play a crucial role in making sure everything runs smoothly and according to plan.
Generally, the couple selects the wedding party members themselves. It’s important to choose people who are reliable and responsible, as they will have important tasks to complete leading up to and on the wedding day.
What is the Role of Wedding Party Members at Rehearsal Dinner?
- Greet and Assist Guests: The wedding party members should arrive early at the rehearsal dinner venue to greet guests as they arrive. They should also assist guests with finding their seats and making sure everyone is comfortable. This is a great opportunity for the wedding party to start bonding with each other before the big day.
- Participate in Rehearsal: The rehearsal dinner is an excellent time for the wedding party to participate in the wedding rehearsal. They should pay close attention to the instructions provided by the wedding planner or coordinator and ask questions if they are unsure about anything. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page before the wedding day.
- Toast to the Couple: The rehearsal dinner is also an excellent time for the wedding party to give toasts to the happy couple. The best man and maid of honor usually give the primary toasts, but other members of the wedding party can also give toasts if they wish. The toasts should be heartfelt and genuine, and they should express the wedding party’s love and support for the couple.
In summary, the wedding party members have several essential roles at the rehearsal dinner. They should greet and assist guests, participate in the rehearsal, and give toasts to the happy couple. By fulfilling these responsibilities, they can help ensure that the wedding runs smoothly and that everyone has a great time.
Etiquette for Thanking Wedding Party Members at Rehearsal Dinner
- Express Gratitude: The rehearsal dinner is an excellent time for the couple to thank their wedding party members for their support and dedication. The couple can express their gratitude by giving a heartfelt speech or by presenting each member of the wedding party with a small gift or token of appreciation. It’s essential to make sure that each member of the wedding party feels valued and appreciated.
- Be Specific: When thanking wedding party members at the rehearsal dinner, it’s essential to be specific about what each member has contributed. For example, the best man can be thanked for his help with planning the bachelor party, while the maid of honor can be thanked for helping the bride with her wedding preparations. Being specific will make each member of the wedding party feel recognized and appreciated.
- Consider the Timing: When thanking wedding party members at the rehearsal dinner, it’s important to consider the timing. The thank-you speech or gift-giving should take place after the meal has been served, but before dessert is served. This will ensure that everyone is present and engaged in the moment, and it will allow time for the wedding party to enjoy the rest of the evening without any distractions.
Remember that thanking wedding party members at the rehearsal dinner is an essential part of the wedding etiquette. By expressing gratitude, being specific, and considering the timing, the couple can show their appreciation for the wedding party’s support and dedication. This will help make the wedding day even more special and memorable for everyone involved.
Out-of-Town Guests
Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when you have out-of-town guests attending your special day. To ensure that everyone feels comfortable and welcomed, consider providing accommodations for your out-of-town guests. This could include reserved hotel room blocks or offering to help them find local accommodations.
It’s also important to provide your guests with information about the local area. This could include a list of local attractions, recommendations for restaurants or cafes, or even a map of the area to help them navigate.
Another way to make your out-of-town guests feel welcome is to provide them with a welcome basket or gift bag. This could include items such as local snacks, a map of the area, bottled water, or even a handwritten note welcoming them to your wedding.
Finally, make sure to communicate with your out-of-town guests before the wedding. Send out save-the-date cards early, provide them with detailed information about the wedding and surrounding events, and consider offering transportation to and from the airport or other transportation hubs.
Inviting Out-of-Town Guests to Rehearsal Dinner
If you have out-of-town guests attending your wedding, you may want to invite them to the rehearsal dinner as well. It’s a great way to show your appreciation for their efforts to attend your wedding, and it gives you a chance to spend more time with them before the big day.
Plan ahead: Make sure to send out invitations well in advance, so your out-of-town guests have enough time to make travel arrangements and plan their schedules accordingly.
Be inclusive: It’s important to invite all out-of-town guests to the rehearsal dinner to avoid any hurt feelings or misunderstandings. This includes family members, friends, and any other guests who have traveled a significant distance to attend your wedding.
Choose a convenient location: When selecting a venue for your rehearsal dinner, consider the convenience of your out-of-town guests. If possible, choose a location that is close to their accommodations or the wedding venue to make it easier for them to attend.
Accommodating Out-of-Town Guests at Rehearsal Dinner
When planning a rehearsal dinner, it’s important to consider the needs of out-of-town guests. One way to accommodate them is to choose a convenient location for the dinner, such as a restaurant or event venue close to their hotel. You can also offer suggestions for transportation, such as arranging for a shuttle service or providing them with ride-sharing options.
Another way to make out-of-town guests feel welcome is to provide them with information about the area, including local attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas. You can also create welcome bags or baskets for them, filled with local goodies and information about the wedding weekend schedule.
Finally, make sure to include out-of-town guests in the rehearsal dinner festivities. You can assign them to tables with other guests they may know or introduce them to new people. This will help them feel more comfortable and included in the celebration.
Ideas for Out-of-Town Guest Welcome Bags
Local Treats: Fill the welcome bags with local snacks and treats that your guests can enjoy during their stay. Consider including a map with recommendations for the best local food spots.
Useful Items: Add items that your guests may have forgotten to pack, such as travel-sized toiletries, a reusable water bottle, or a phone charger. Don’t forget to include a list of important phone numbers and addresses, including the wedding venue and hotel.
Fun Souvenirs: Include fun souvenirs that your guests can take home as a memento of the wedding, such as custom koozies or keychains. You could also add a handwritten note welcoming your guests and thanking them for attending your special day.
Officiant and Their Spouse
If you have hired an officiant for your wedding, it’s customary to invite them and their spouse to the rehearsal dinner as a way to say thank you for their services. You can also use this opportunity to go over any final details with them, such as the order of the ceremony or any special readings or rituals.
When inviting the officiant and their spouse to the rehearsal dinner, make sure to let them know in advance so they can plan accordingly. If they are traveling from out of town, you may want to offer to help them with accommodations or transportation.
During the rehearsal dinner, be sure to show your appreciation for the officiant and their spouse by thanking them publicly for their services and including them in any toasts or speeches. You may also want to give them a small token of your gratitude, such as a gift card or a handwritten note.
Who Should Invite the Officiant and Their Spouse to Rehearsal Dinner?
Traditionally, the bride’s family hosts the rehearsal dinner and invites the wedding party and immediate family members, including the officiant and their spouse.
However, modern couples often pay for their own rehearsal dinner and may choose to invite the officiant and their spouse themselves.
Alternatively, the couple may ask the officiant to attend the rehearsal dinner but not include their spouse, as the spouse is not typically involved in the ceremony.
Proper Seating Arrangements for the Officiant and Their Spouse
When it comes to seating arrangements for the rehearsal dinner, it’s important to ensure that the officiant and their spouse are seated in a place of honor. This can be done by placing them at the head table or a table close to it, along with the couple and their immediate families.
Another option is to seat the officiant and their spouse at a separate table with other special guests, such as the wedding party or close friends. This allows them to socialize and enjoy the evening while still being recognized for their important role in the wedding.
Regardless of where they are seated, it’s important to make sure that the officiant and their spouse are comfortable and have everything they need to enjoy the evening, including any dietary restrictions or preferences.
Thanking the Officiant and Their Spouse at Rehearsal Dinner
It’s important to show your gratitude to the officiant and their spouse for their important role in your wedding ceremony. A heartfelt thank-you speech during the rehearsal dinner is a great way to express your appreciation.
You can also present them with a thoughtful gift as a token of your gratitude. This can be something personal that reflects your relationship with the officiant and their spouse.
Another way to show your appreciation is to acknowledge their contribution in your wedding program or on your wedding website. This will ensure that all of your guests know how much you value their presence.
Special Guests Invited by the Couple
VIPs: If you have special guests who are particularly important to you, such as close friends or family members who have traveled a long distance to attend your wedding, it is customary to invite them to the rehearsal dinner. This is a great way to show your appreciation for their presence and to spend more time with them before the big day.
Unexpected Guests: It’s not uncommon for unexpected guests to show up for your wedding, and if you have room in your budget, you may want to consider inviting them to the rehearsal dinner as well. While it may be difficult to accommodate everyone, extending an invitation can be a kind gesture that shows you value their presence at your wedding.
Out-of-Town Guests: If you have guests who are traveling from out of town to attend your wedding, it’s a nice gesture to invite them to the rehearsal dinner. This can help make them feel welcome and included in the wedding festivities, and can also give them an opportunity to meet and socialize with other guests before the wedding day.
Who are Considered as Special Guests?
| Guest Type | Requirements | Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Elite Guests | Well-known celebrities or personalities in their respective field | Free luxury accommodations, exclusive access to events, and personalized services such as private drivers and personal chefs |
| Corporate Guests | Executives and decision-makers from reputable companies | Complimentary conference rooms, high-speed internet, and top-notch audio-visual equipment |
| VIP Guests | Frequent visitors, loyal customers, or high-spending individuals | Special discounts, welcome amenities, and personalized services such as butlers and spa treatments |
Hotels, resorts, and event organizers often offer exclusive perks and services to their special guests. These guests are highly valued and often have unique requirements and preferences that need to be catered to. Among the special guests, there are three types that are highly sought after and considered as the top-tier: Elite Guests, Corporate Guests, and VIP Guests.
Elite Guests are the crème de la crème of special guests. They are well-known celebrities, athletes, politicians, and personalities in their respective fields. Hotels and resorts offer them exclusive access to events, free luxury accommodations, and personalized services such as private drivers and personal chefs. In return, Elite Guests help boost the hotel or resort’s reputation and bring in more business through their social media and public appearances.
Corporate Guests are executives and decision-makers from reputable companies who attend conferences, meetings, and other business-related events. They require state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch audio-visual equipment, high-speed internet, and complimentary conference rooms. Hotels and resorts often offer Corporate Guests discounted rates, exclusive meeting spaces, and access to additional amenities such as fitness centers and spas.
VIP Guests are frequent visitors, loyal customers, or high-spending individuals who require personalized attention and services. They receive special discounts, welcome amenities, and personalized services such as butlers and spa treatments. VIP Guests often have a direct line of communication with hotel and resort managers and can provide valuable feedback and insights on how to improve the guest experience.
Dinner Venue Staff and Musicians
Aside from the cuisine and venue, the staff and musicians who will be present in your event can make a significant difference in creating an unforgettable experience for your guests. At the dinner venue, the staff plays a crucial role in making sure that everything runs smoothly. From setting up the tables to serving the food, the staff ensures that guests are comfortable and have everything they need.
In addition to the staff, you can also hire musicians to play during the dinner. Live music can create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as serve as a form of entertainment for guests. Musicians can range from solo artists to small ensembles, depending on your budget and preferences.
When hiring musicians, it’s essential to consider the type of music that will be played. You’ll want to select music that’s appropriate for the occasion and matches the overall tone of the event. Whether you prefer classical music or modern pop hits, the right musicians can enhance the mood and add a special touch to your event.
Tipping the Venue Staff and Musicians at Rehearsal Dinner
When planning a rehearsal dinner, it’s essential to consider the budget and all the expenses that come with it. One aspect of the budget that’s often overlooked is the tipping for the staff and musicians. It’s important to note that tipping is not always mandatory, but it’s a way to show appreciation for their hard work.
The venue staff is responsible for setting up and cleaning up the venue, as well as serving food and drinks to guests. If you’re satisfied with their service, a general rule of thumb is to tip them 15% to 20% of the total cost of the dinner. However, it’s always best to check with the venue beforehand to see if they have a specific policy regarding tipping.
When it comes to musicians, tipping is also a way to show appreciation for their performance. If you hire musicians for the rehearsal dinner, it’s customary to tip them 10% to 15% of their fee. However, if they go above and beyond and exceed your expectations, you can always tip them more.
| Person | Service | Tipping Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Venue Staff | Serving and cleaning up | 15% to 20% |
| Musicians | Live performance | 10% to 15% |
| Wedding Planner | Coordination and planning | 10% to 20% |
Remember that tipping is optional, and you should never feel obligated to tip if the service is unsatisfactory. However, if you received exceptional service, it’s always a nice gesture to show your appreciation by tipping generously.
Inviting the Venue Staff and Musicians to the Rehearsal Dinner
Inviting the venue staff and musicians to the rehearsal dinner is a great way to thank them for their hard work and show your appreciation. It is also a way to ensure that they feel included in your special day and will give them an opportunity to get to know you and your partner a little better.
When you are planning the rehearsal dinner, it is important to discuss with your partner whether or not you want to invite the venue staff and musicians. If you do decide to invite them, it is important to make sure that they are included in your headcount when you are making reservations and ordering food and drinks.
When you send out the invitations for the rehearsal dinner, make sure to include a separate note or message to the venue staff and musicians thanking them for their services and inviting them to join you for the celebration. You can also include a small gift or tip as a token of your appreciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a rehearsal dinner in a wedding?
A rehearsal dinner is a pre-wedding event that serves as an opportunity for the wedding party to rehearse the ceremony and iron out any kinks before the big day. It’s also a chance for family and close friends to spend time together before the wedding festivities begin.
Who is typically invited to a rehearsal dinner for a wedding?
The guest list for a rehearsal dinner usually includes the wedding party and their significant others, the parents of the bride and groom, and any out-of-town guests who have arrived early for the wedding. It may also include other close family members and friends of the couple.
Who pays for the rehearsal dinner at a wedding?
Traditionally, the groom’s family pays for the rehearsal dinner, but it can also be paid for by the bride and groom, or both families can split the cost. However, these days it’s becoming more common for couples to pay for their own rehearsal dinners.
What is the typical dress code for a rehearsal dinner?
The dress code for a rehearsal dinner is usually less formal than the wedding itself. It’s a good idea to check with the hosts if there is a specific dress code, but generally, guests can wear cocktail or dressy-casual attire. The wedding party may be asked to wear their wedding attire to the rehearsal dinner.
What happens at a rehearsal dinner?
A rehearsal dinner typically includes a run-through of the ceremony, followed by a dinner or other type of celebration. The hosts may give speeches, and the wedding party and guests may mingle and socialize. It’s a more relaxed and informal event than the wedding day itself, but it’s still an important part of the wedding festivities.