Throwing a rehearsal dinner the night before your wedding will give the families and wedding party time to bond and celebrate before the big day. While rehearsal dinners still require some planning, they are typically less formal than other wedding-related events. From choosing an event space to deciding who to invite, here are some tips for planning a rehearsal dinner.

How to Plan a Rehearsal Dinner

1. Make a Guest List

Usually, the guests invited to the rehearsal dinner will include the immediate families of both future spouses as well as any members of the wedding party. The parents of any children in your wedding party, such as the flower girl, should also be in attendance. It’s nice to also include the significant others of family and wedding party members.

Send out paper invitations a few days after you send the initial wedding invitation. Sending the invites close together will help guests plan better.

2. Pick an Event Space

Factoring in your budget and personal style can help you narrow down the venues available for your rehearsal dinner.

Is there a particular aesthetic or atmosphere you’re looking for? What kind of food do you like? Do you have a large number of guests and need an event space big enough to accommodate them? Once you choose a place, make sure to inform the guests of the menu and any dress code requirements in advance.

3. Plan Activities 

There will be items on the agenda aside from eating. Making speeches is a tradition, for example. The groom’s father often makes a toast, and the groom himself can say a few words thanking everyone for their involvement.

You could also add fun icebreakers to help everyone get to know each other. Have guests discuss funny memories of the couple or play a sweet home movie. Before the event ends, remind everyone of their specific duties for the following day.

Are you looking for the perfect event space for your rehearsal dinner? Check out Starlite Lounge & Banquet Room in Lincoln, NE. This venue has a fun, retro atmosphere and a banquet room that can seat up to 56 people. Available seven days a week for lunch or dinner, they have delicious drinks and amazing customer service. For more information, visit them online or call (402) 475-8822.