A wedding rehearsal dinner can become so fun and full of candid moments of the friends and family of the bride and groom. I love capturing these moments for my couples and their guests. 

It is definitely a memorable addition to a bride and groom’s love story. It also commemorates an enjoyable evening leading up to their wedding.

Why you should have a dinner rehearsal?

Rehearsal dinners allow the bride and groom another chance to mingle with their “VIP” guests before the wedding. 

It ensures the bride and groom will be able to chat with everyone during their wedding weekend. Often times it can be difficult to chat with all of your guests on the day of your wedding.

Additionally, rehearsal dinners give your guests a chance to meet each other before your wedding day in a smaller setting. Especially the members of your group who might live further away.

There is something so special about witnessing family members getting to catch-up!

Ebru and Bobby’s Dinner

Ebru and Bobby’s rehearsal dinner was held at the Temecula Creek Inn; they had several of their family and friends present during their dinner.

The whole event was full of laughter and big smiles, especially when Bobby’s uncle got up to read a special “poem” which had the whole group laughing. 

Since Ebru and Bobby were not able to have engagement photos done the rehearsal dinner gave us an opportunity to meet each other before their wedding and allowed them the opportunity to have some extra formal photos taken. 

Ebru’s dress was so beautiful with a gorgeous floral pattern which paired perfectly with Bobby’s neutral suit. 

How to have an Unforgettable Wedding Rehearsal Dinner

There are many great ways to have a rehearsal dinner and I wanted to share a few of them here! I love helping my clients plan the best ways to have a successful wedding dinner rehearsal. I would love the opportunity to do the same for you too!

What kind of food to have?

One of the best and most obvious ways to have a fantastic dinner rehearsal is having delicious food. I suggest having a plated dinner where you have three main dishes to choose from. This will help to appease your guests with any dietary restrictions.

The Details

Having small fun details unique to the bride and groom can also really make the difference between a mediocre and luxury rehearsal dinner experience. Florals or framed pictures of the couple are always a nice touch too.

Choosing a theme for your rehearsal dinner can be an opportunity to lead into your wedding day – choosing a similar style and vibe can leave your guests excited for the events of the big day to follow.

An idea that isn’t really spoken about but really pulls the event together is suggesting a dress-code – this helps to make everyone look cohesive in photos. I usually suggest a semi-formal dress code for your rehearsal dinner because it helps to really elevate the photos you will receive back from the event. 

Then there are smaller details that can really help to make your rehearsal dinner an exceptional luxury event. Have your guests sign-in, think about transportation needs of your guests, consider having music, and don’t forget a signature cocktail can really add something unique and fun to your dining experience! 

The Venue – where to host your rehearsal dinner?

Choosing your rehearsal dinner venue can really help to set the mood of the weekend’s events. 

There are so many great venues to choose from here in California and don’t be afraid to think outside the box, maybe consider: a yacht, rooftop bar, or even an art gallery! 

Deciding on a unique rehearsal dinner location really helps to add to the guests’ experience of your wedding weekend! 

Are you ready to start planning your rehearsal dinner? Reach out to start planning today! 

I would love to help you achieve a unique dinner rehearsal for your friends and family! Creating a “VIP” experience for all of my clients is my top priority, so if you are interested in working together reach out here.