How to Plan a Rehearsal Dinner (+ Unique Ideas)

What happens at a rehearsal dinner? – Ideas for Entertaining

After your ceremony rehearsal, it’s time for dinner! As is implied by the name, the idea behind a rehearsal dinner revolves around a shared meal where you and your guests can decompress and spend time together before the big day. It’s a fun and relaxed way for both sides of your friends and family to meet, mingle, and start the weekend off on the right foot.

In addition to the all-important food, another etiquette hallmark of the rehearsal dinner are the toasts. (Keep scrolling for more info on who typically gives speeches during this celebration!) Penny recommends having your photographer and videographer join this part of the evening to capture all the most memorable moments.

Finally, this celebration is also when you should give your gifts to the groomsmen and bridesmaids. If you have gifts for your parents, this is also the perfect time to have an intimate moment with them before the rush of the big day.

And don’t forget the most important part of your event — celebrating! To make sure you don’t forget anything, here’s an easy rehearsal dinner timeline to help you plan all your ideas:

• 6:00 pm – Cocktails and small bites (optional)
• 6:30 pm – Welcome speech from the hosts
• 6:45 pm – Quick toast from the love birds — you can plan this for before or after dinner
• 7:00 pm – Dinner is served
• 8:00 pm – Open the floor to speeches
• 8:30 pm – Give out your thank-you gifts
• 9:00 pm – End with dancing, an after-party, or an early night!