Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Alternatives

 Traditionally, the day before the wedding is reserved for the wedding rehearsal and the wedding rehearsal dinner. This traditional gathering of the wedding party and the bride and groom’s close family and friends is an occasion in itself, and the wedding rehearsal dinner marks a special time for families to meet before the wedding, typically in less-concentrated surroundings.

The wedding rehearsal dinner is usually semi-formal, paid for by the groom’s parents, and an opportunity for the bride and groom to present thank-you gifts to wedding attendants. But if your family is from opposite sides of the country or if sitting down to a stuffy meal does not appeal to you, you may opt for an alternative rehearsal dinner in a more casual setting. 

1. Pizza Party: A pizza party rehearsal dinner is a great way for the wedding party to relax and visit with one another. Sometimes, this is a great idea if you are responsible for decorating your own reception hall. When wedding attendants and their families are younger, the budget of the groom’s parents is lower than that required for a fancy meal, or when there are still a lot of things to get done to prepare for the wedding and reception, the pizza party rehearsal dinner is often a better alternative to posh dining. 

2. Barbecue/Cookout/Pitch-in: One of the most casual wedding rehearsal dinners involves a grill, some chicken breasts, dogs, burgers, chips, and a relaxed atmosphere. If families are coming from a distance to attend your wedding, a nice barbecue wedding rehearsal dinner is a great way to show them you appreciate their attendance. They will be able to meet, visit, and chat without the stress of formal outfits and etiquette rules.