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Writer's pictureBrenda Gebhardt

Wedding Rehearsal Ideas to Launch the Weekend Celebration and Extend the Fun!

Updated: Nov 29

Rehearsal dinners are more than just an opportunity to practice for the big day, they're the kickstart to a wedding weekend and the perfect chance to share intimate and hilarious moments, and celebrate with your nearest and dearest before saying "I do". We think this special time should be as memorable and unforgettable as the wedding day itself. That's why we created this list of 8 creative ways to make your reheasal dinner super special.


  1. Make it themed. This is a fantastic way to make this time personalized and add an element of fun. Choose a theme that reflects your interests like a favorite movie, tv show, travel destination, hobby or holiday.


  2. Make it a game night. Setting up stations will encourage guests to mingle and create a lively atmosphere. Interactive activities, like trivia about the couple, encourage laughter and connection and create a relaxed environment that fosters interaction between guests who otherwise may not connect.


  3. Choose a unique venue. Is there a place that is significant to you and and offers a stunning backdrop, such as a garden, beach, lake or zoo? Consider hosting at the spot where you got engaged. Any spot that has sentimental value and honors your love story will make the event even more special and memorable.




  4. Personalize the event. Use this intimate atmosphere to allow guests to share stories or offer up toasts. Curate a playlist that is meaningful to you and defines your relationship. Consider activities that reflect your hobby or interests like a cooking class, DIY craft stations, or elements of your favorite sport.

  5. Create unique seating arrangements. Use photos or fun facts about your guests as placecards at their seats. Mix up the seating by mingling the bridal party with your family and other important guests. Encourage guests to rotate seating throughout the evening giving people a chance to interact with and get to know each other without the awkwardness of an entire evening together.


  6. Set up food stations. Food stations allow guests to customize their meal and create an interactive dining experience that is delicious and engaging. Consider a taco bar, pasta station, slider station, charcuterie board, sushi bar, brunch station, bbq buffet, build a bowl table, sundae bar, or crepe buffet.


  7. Capture the moment. Don't forget to add a DIY photo station, appoint a guest to be the candid photographer, place disposable cameras on the tables, or hire an adorable photo booth. You won't want to miss the emotions and memories of this special time with the people that matter most!


    Photo Courtesy: Thanks for the Memories Photo Booth


  8. Finish with a heartfelt thank you. The rehearsal will be one of the handful of times that you will have your favorite people gathered in the same place. It is the perfect time to express gratitude, acknowledge contributions, and create connections among guests. Whether the thank yous are spoken or written, they are sure to set a loving tone for the celebration ahead and honor the people who have meant so much to you throughout your lifetime and been helpful in the wedding planning process.


Ultimately, this special gathering not only enhances the excitement leading up the to your wedding but strengthens the bond and love between you and the people who will be your biggest supporters as you start your journey together. Relax and embrace this time as you share laughter, stories and make beautiful memories. We'd love to hear from you! What are your favorite takeaways from this blog? Do you have ideas that we haven't considered or experiences from rehearsal dinners you've attended? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let's inspire each other to create unforgettable moments as we head into our own special days!


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We are dedicated to using our platform to support other locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include links to locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. Be prepared to be inspired by the beauty of their venues and talent of their clients and vendors. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map


Lavender on the Lake





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