Post # 1
Member
1523 posts
Bumble bee
Does everyone do a rehearsal dinner? My FIL’s offered to pay for the dinner but we have a pretty large bridal party (plus family) so dinner would be really pricey. In all honesty, I would rather them use that money towards something fun for our wedding (like a photo booth). According to my mother, rehearsal dinners are somewhat outdated. Is she right? Can we skip this formality or do people expect to be fed?
Post # 3
Member
4581 posts
Honey bee
I was under the impression that rehearsal dinners are still very common.
Post # 4
Member
4822 posts
Honey bee
I havent heard of anyone not having a rehearsal dinner. They can be fancy or low-key BBQ or Pizza, but I think if you are asking your bridal party to rehearse, its considered good ettiquette to provide a meal as well.
Post # 5
Member
2455 posts
Buzzing bee
I think most people still do rehersal dinners. However, it doesn’t have to be fancy. The suggestion of BBQ or pizza is a great idea.
Post # 6
Member
1002 posts
Bumble bee
I think rehearsal dinners are pretty common still. We are doing an informal bbq with a couple coolers of beer and water, etc! Doesn’t have to be anything fancy.
Post # 7
Member
51 posts
Worker bee
I agree with the previous posters, rehearsal dinners are still common (and probably expected). I think a low-key pizza or bbq night would be a great way to relax with friends prior to the big day…and as an added bonus it will be so much cheaper than a fancy sit down place. I know that I recently looked into prices for rehearsal dinners and about fainted when I saw the minimums!
Post # 8
Member
10635 posts
Sugar Beekeeper
From what I’ve seen & read online, I would say the opposite trend seems to be occurring, rehearsal dinners are becoming larger and more extravagant. I’m not a fan of that trend though, I prefer low key rehearsal dinners.
I would want to have one though, it’s a good chance to have fun with the bridal party and parents after the rehearsal!
Post # 9
Member
1523 posts
Bumble bee
Thanks everyone. A BBQ would be a fun idea! Thanks <3
Post # 10
Member
10283 posts
Sugar Beekeeper
I’ve never been involved in a wedding that didn’t have a Rehearsal Dinner. While you don’t have to have one, it is a nice oppertunity to spend some extra time with those closest to you. It doesn’t have to be a formal affair. RD’s can range from a sit down dinner in a swanky restaurant to pizza or chinese takeout back at your place.
To be honest, when I’m in a wedding, I expect a Rehearsal Dinner. If the couple doesn’t have one I wouldn’t be angry but I would definitely find it weird.