#1 – Choose your party
The first step is to decide what kind of gathering you want. Most couples stick with something a little less formal. But, you can do anything you like: dinner at a restaurant, a cocktail and appetizer cruise, a picnic in a park or a cookout in your backyard. Brainstorm with your fiancée and his parents and choose your ideal party.
#2 – Clarify who’s paying
Historically, the groom’s parents pick up the tab for the rehearsal dinner; however, you can no longer make that assumption. So, it’s critical to be clear up front exactly who is paying for what. And never, ever assume!
#3 – Make the guest list
Anyone involved in the ceremony and at the rehearsal, should of course be invited. This includes attendants, parents and other immediate family, readers and so on. It’s also customary to include out-of-town guests.
#4 – Make them mingle
One of the main purposes of the rehearsal dinner is for the two families to get to know each other better and enjoy each other’s company. So, whatever you and your groom can do to help with that, the better. Consider strategically planned seating with place cards or nametags with brief descriptions like “Mary Jones, Bride’s College Roommate,” and any other needed introductions. The rehearsal dinner is also an ideal time to give your attendants their gifts.
#5 – Fine tune the toasts
Traditionally, the groom’s father toasts first at the rehearsal dinner, however, traditions continue to evolve and change! The rehearsal dinner is a more relaxed, informal atmosphere, so you can decide together, along with your families, who would like to speak and in what order. Often, the groom’s father will say a few words, followed by the bride’s father and then the bride and groom. Groomsmen, bridesmaids, mothers and other guests may also want to make a toast. Cheers!