Rehearsal Dinner: What the Groom Needs to Know

September 25, 2012

A lot of fuss has been made about brides turning into monsters as their wedding date approaches but getting married can be stressful for the groom as well. One of the biggest responsibilities the groom faces is the rehearsal dinner. It’s a time for members of the two families to come together and get to know each other. Many of the best rehearsal dinners are informal and feel more like a family get-together rather than part of the wedding ceremony. Still, planning one (and attending one) can be difficult. So here is a short list of what every groom needs to know about the rehearsal dinner.

1. Do think about who you will and won’t invite.
Obviously you should have the main players in your wedding party at the dinner and the in-laws should all be invited as well. However, it’s not necessary to invite friends, all the outlying family members, and acquaintances. The purpose of the dinner is for people to mingle and if the crowd gets too large it’s hard to make time for everyone. Which, coincidentally, is number 2.

2. Do take time to speak with everyone.
You don’t have to dole out your time on a day planner but you should pan on spending a few minutes conversing with each and every one invited to your rehearsal dinner. Don’t have anything to talk about? Simply thank them for being a part of your special day.

3. Do plan icebreakers.
Fun games (darts, pool, word games, or even appropriate board or social games) can be a way to get everybody involved and get those tongues wagging. Don’t let your rehearsal dinner stall before it ever gets started.

4. Do plan on making a toast.
Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be anything long or fancy. Just a simple little speech about how happy you are to be getting married and thanking everybody for being a part of it (even if they’ve been less than helpful during the process) is an excellent way to make everyone feel welcome.

5. Do plan the menu appropriately.
Chances are the bride will want to have some input on what is served at the rehearsal dinner – and that’s okay. But it’s important to make sure everybody feels comfortable enough to talk while dinner is being served. The folks at Orange County Mining Co have been hosting rehearsal dinners for years and can give you some great tips on menu choices.

Check back soon for the Grooms list of rehearsal dinner Don’ts….