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B A N Q U E T S , R E C E P T I O N S , S H O W E R S & P A R T I E S
C H I C A G O W E D D I N G & P A R T Y R E S O U R C E
22
The Redesigned Rehearsal
Get more time with your guests – and amp up the personalization – by hosting a bigger practice party
By Anna Sachse, CTW Features
Historically, rehearsal dinners have been
an intimate restaurant affair for immedi-
ate family, wedding party members and
their significant others, and the parents of
any child attendants. However, in recent
years, there has been a shift toward open-
ing up these traditional celebrations to more
guests, as well as branching out from the
standard sit-down meal.
Here is the why and how of a more inclusive
and creative pre-big day party.
THE PERKS
Weddings generally bring together many
people from many different backgrounds.
Having everyone get together at the re-
hearsal dinner serves as an ice-breaker – by
the time the reception rolls around, every-
one is already old friends.
It’s also a great way to ensure you – the
bride! – actually get to spend quality time
with all your nearest and dearest. The wed-
ding day goes by so fast, and the couple may
feel pulled in many different directions.
Hosting a more inclusive rehearsal dinner
decreases the big day pressure on the bride
and groom, and allows for more relaxed
hanging out.
THE GUEST LIST
If you have the inclination and the budget,
go ahead and include everyone in your re-
hearsal festivities. But if you must draw the
line somewhere, just make sure your invite
list is consistent.
For example, due to the time and expense
involved in traveling, destination-wedding
rehearsal dinners have typically involved
all the guests. Playing off that trend, many
stateside wedding couples are now opting
to include all out-of-town guests in the
day-before bash. Others might prefer to
host all their extended family members.
THE PARTY
If the guest list is small or money is little
or no object, the rehearsal dinner is a love-
ly way to add a playful or unconventional
element to your gala. Treat guests to an in-
teractive dinner show, or spring for dinner
cruises that show off the city skyline. Other
creative options include a catered affair at a
cool space like an aquarium or racetrack, or
picking a unique theme like Old Hollywood
or a luau.
That said, by no means is it necessary to
spend a fortune to have a fabulous fête.
Your real focus should be having a rehearsal
dinner that feels like it represents who you
are as a couple, and fits in with the rest of
your wedding weekend events. A backyard
BBQs, a picnic in the park, a pizza party on
the patio or a taco truck and s’mores on the
beach are all great bets.
If you have a fun location, then be casual
with the meal. The enjoyment is really about
the atmosphere you create.
Copyright © CTW Features