Rehearsal dinner

Rehearsal Dinner

A rehearsal dinner is a pre-wedding ceremony in North American tradition, usually held after the wedding rehearsal and the night before the wedding ceremony. The attendees generally include a core group of individuals who are close to the couple, such as the immediate family, the wedding party, and close friends.

History

The tradition of the rehearsal dinner dates back to the Middle Ages, when the families of the bride and groom would gather together to celebrate and prepare for the upcoming wedding. The dinner was typically held at the home of the bride or groom, and was a time for the families to get to know each other better.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the rehearsal dinner is to provide an opportunity for the families and the wedding party to meet and interact before the wedding. It also serves as a time for the couple to thank their parents, the wedding party, and anyone else who has helped with the wedding preparations.

Planning

The rehearsal dinner is typically planned by the groom's parents, although it is not uncommon for the bride and groom to plan the event themselves. The dinner can be as formal or informal as the couple wishes, and can range from a catered event at a fancy restaurant to a casual backyard barbecue.

Attendees

The attendees at the rehearsal dinner typically include the immediate families of the bride and groom, the wedding party, and the officiant. Some couples also choose to invite out-of-town guests or other close friends who are not in the wedding party.

Activities

The rehearsal dinner usually includes a meal and often some form of entertainment. This can range from a formal sit-down dinner to a casual buffet. Some couples choose to have speeches or toasts, while others prefer a more informal gathering with no set agenda.

Etiquette

While the rehearsal dinner is a more relaxed event than the wedding, there are still some etiquette rules that should be followed. For example, it is customary for the host to welcome the guests and for the couple to thank their parents and the wedding party. It is also customary for the couple to give gifts to the wedding party at this time.

Conclusion

The rehearsal dinner is an important part of the wedding festivities, providing an opportunity for the families and the wedding party to come together and celebrate before the big day. Whether formal or informal, it is a time for the couple to express their gratitude to those who have supported them in their journey to marriage.