7 smart and stylish rehearsal dinner tips

When planning events leading up to the wedding, don’t forget about the rehearsal dinner. Here are a few planning tips that will help.

1. Decide Who is Hosting
Traditionally, it was the duty of the parents of the groom, but that isn’t the case anymore. It can be the parents, friends or the couple.

2. Not the Night Before
Don’t host your rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding. Try two nights before to guarantee all the wrinkles get ironed out and everyone has a chance to relax on the eve of the wedding.

3. Keep Things Calm
Weddings are stressful enough and this is your chance to relax and enjoy yourself.

4. Hire a Planner
Consider a planner. If you’re hoping for something more elaborate than dinner at a restaurant, ask a planner to take care of florals, menu, décor and guest list.

5. Think Outside the Box
Host an intimate picnic dinner with dessert s’mores (like Melanie and Carey did on these pages). Go to a sports bar for wings and beer. Head home for an evening pool party. Go bowling or mini-putting. Or, keep it sophisticated and dine at a winery.

6. Decide on the Guest List
Invite out-of-town guests so that the rehearsal dinner doubles as a welcome party.

7. Be Sure to Say Thanks
Make a speech and thank everyone for their help. Jot down all the names so you don’t forget anyone!