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Tips for Planning a Rehearsal Dinner

Many couples will devote most of their time to planning their wedding. After all, it is a grand day of celebration and the start of their life together. The rehearsal dinner is a tradition that should not be neglected, however. In addition to rehearsing the wedding ceremony, the rehearsal dinner is a chance for you and your significant other to celebrate your nuptials in an intimate setting. Read on for more information about planning a rehearsal dinner.

WHAT IS THE POINT OF A REHEARSAL DINNER?

The rehearsal dinner is a traditional celebration. Because the wedding day is often quite hectic, you may not be able to talk to everyone at the reception. The dinner gives you a chance to greet your guests and spend time with your family in a casual setting.

This is the time to talk through the plans for your wedding day and make sure that everyone is comfortable with what is happening. The rehearsal dinner can also be used to give gifts to the members of your wedding party or your partner, and guests may deliver an intimate toast.

WHO SHOULD BE INVITED TO A WEDDING REHEARSAL DINNER?

The people that should definitely receive an invitation to the rehearsal dinner include:

  • The bride and groom’s immediate families
  • Members of the wedding party and their significant others
  • The parents of any child attendants (and possibly the child attendant themselves if appropriate)
  • The officiant and their significant other

READ: How to Involve Your Kids in Your Wedding

Other people that you could consider inviting are any family members who traveled far for the wedding. This should seriously be considered if over half of the guests must travel for the big day.

HOW MUCH SHOULD A REHEARSAL DINNER COST PER PERSON?

There are many elements of the rehearsal dinner that factor into its cost. With these costs considered, many couples will spend a few thousand dollars on their rehearsal dinner.

First, you will need to invite your guests to the event. If you choose to send a classic card invite, you may spend $2 to $13 per card depending upon the quality of the card itself and the retailer you purchase the invitations from.

The dinner itself can cost around $30 to $70 per guest for simple meals and drinks. This cost can increase to $250 per person if your dinner will take place in a sophisticated venue. Depending on the venue you choose, there may be a cost for renting a space in the facility.

If the venue does not include decor, you will want to provide this to make the event elegant and give your guests a taste of what to expect at the wedding ceremony. Depending on what decor you choose, you may spend $15 to $50 per item.

WHEN SHOULD THE REHEARSAL DINNER TAKE PLACE?

The rehearsal dinner usually takes place the night before the wedding day. Since weddings traditionally take place on Saturday, the rehearsal dinner would happen on Friday evening. Weddings may also happen another day of the week or around the time of a holiday. In that case, there is more flexibility with the rehearsal dinner. It could happen a few nights, or even an entire week, before the wedding.

READ: What to Do If Your Wedding Is Postponed

In planning this event, you should consider the time that the rehearsal will last and the length of time needed to get to the venue where the rehearsal dinner is taking place. This can guide the decision of the time reservations at the rehearsal dinner venue can be made. It is best to wrap up the dinner around 9 or 10 pm so everyone can feel well-rested for the big day.

COLONIAL GOLF AND TENNIS CLUB CAN HOST YOUR REHEARSAL DINNER

Colonial Golf and Tennis Club is a special place to have your wedding rehearsal or dinner in central Pennsylvania. Our many outdoor spaces for weddings provide a beautiful backdrop for your special day. We can also serve your rehearsal dinner with our on-site catering team. Whether your dinner or wedding is large and spectacular or small and intimate, Colonial Golf and Tennis Club cannot wait to celebrate your special day with you.

You can read more information on our website about having your rehearsal dinner at Colonial Golf and Tennis Club or contact us to discuss your rehearsal dinner needs.

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