A rehearsal dinner is a traditional pre-wedding event typically held the evening before the wedding day, after the wedding rehearsal. It serves as an intimate gathering for the bride, groom, their families, and the wedding party to come together, relax, and enjoy a meal before the big day
. The main purposes of a rehearsal dinner are:
- To show hospitality to the wedding party and out-of-town guests
- To allow the two families and friends to meet and socialize in a relaxed setting before the wedding
- To thank those who have helped with wedding preparations, often through speeches, toasts, and gift-giving
- To provide a moment for the couple and their closest loved ones to unwind and connect before the wedding festivities begin
Traditionally, the groom's family hosts and pays for the rehearsal dinner, but modern customs allow for the bride's family or the couple themselves to host as well
. While called a "dinner," the event can take other forms such as brunch or lunch, depending on the couple's preference and schedule
. In summary, a rehearsal dinner is a meaningful social occasion that marks the conclusion of pre-wedding activities and sets a warm, celebratory tone for the wedding day itself.
