Monday, January 18, 2010

Break the ice with a rehearsal dinner





Photo credits - www.coopercarras.com
www.stylemepretty.com
www.planningforever.com

Its the norm in the US and we are seeing a gradual increase for something similar here in the UK for the rehearsal dinner. This is a traditional way of bringing together the bride and the groom's families and close friends and the bridal party usually the night before the wedding as an introduction or an ice breaker.

Rehearsal dinners are a great way for the bride and groom to-be to spend some extra time with their loved ones before the big day.

Traditionally rehearsal dinners were hosted by the groom's family for the bridal party and the minister and his wife after the rehearsal of the marriage ceremony (usually a day or two before the wedding). Today, however, they rules of etiquette are not so strict and the rehearsal dinner can be hosted by the bride and groom themselves or even the bride's family. Invitations are also usually now extended to out of town guests and close family and friends. The purpose of the rehearsal dinner is to thank those involved in the wedding preparations but it is also a great opportunity for the couple to spend some extra time with their loved ones before their big day. The event also serves as a fantastic opportunity to reacquaint family members and friends before the wedding. Toasts (or roasts as they are called) are usually made in the couple's honour and it is quite common for the couple to hand out small gifts to those involved in the wedding preparations. A rehearsal dinner can be held anywhere - what about having outside caterers coming into your home if you can accommodate the numbers around your table and be waited on? Or, rent out a restaurant or speak with your wedding venue - they may have another suitable function room within the hotel for you to host a rehearsal dinner. Whatever suits the couple's taste and financial situation best.

What do you think? Are you getting married soon and have your families met yet? Give us your stories

Stephanie Thorne - Our US expert



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