While your wedding day may be the real deal, we also know how important a wedding rehearsal is. Having a run-through of everything to make sure everyone is familiar with their roles (and practicing your walk down the aisle without tripping over your nerves) not only helps calm those pre-wedding butterflies a tad but also gives both your families a little more time to spend together. Rehearsal dinners are usually less formal than your actual wedding, so take this chance to kick off your wedding weekend with a casual start, making it easier for everyone to get comfortable with each other before showtime. Here are creative ideas to help inspire a rehearsal dinner that’s fun, informal, and as memorable as your wedding!
Hire A Local Band
Picture Courtesy: @islandkingsband
Your rehearsal dinner is a mini celebration in itself. And what’s a party with no music? With your closest friends and family there, the best way to enhance the ambiance of this intimate setting is with some live music. Hire a local band to set the mood so everyone can enjoy a good time as they mingle with each other.
Go With A Theme
Picture Courtesy: @kylie_morgan_
Themed parties are always the best! And you don’t have to reserve it just for the wedding. If you don’t want to follow the typical format of what a rehearsal is supposed to be, incorporate a fun theme for a unique dinner experience that shows off your vibes as a couple. This way, come to your reception, it won’t feel like a mirrored event!
Create A Unique Experience
Picture Courtesy: @tabithabrookephotography
Since your wedding will undoubtedly be a fancier party, you might decide to embrace a more laid-back theme for your rehearsal. If that’s what you’re going for, we suggest hosting it at a venue with an outdoor space, more like a picnic or party by the pool (you can have a splash once you’re done with all the run-throughs and relieve yourself of those nerves that may creep up). An open venue usually makes for a less formal setting, creating the perfect atmosphere for the occasion. If your destination is known for its stunning location near a water body like Lake Como, give your guests a unique experience by renting out a riverboat or yacht for the cocktail hour, or explore local hotspots together and make the most of your visit.
Mobile Bars – Something to Drink & Something to Eat
Pictures Courtesy: @rachelhuntphotography / @tipsyturnytrailer & @lisapoggi / Planner @exclusiveitalyweddings
Because some people may need a little liquid courage! Whether it’s tequila shots or fun cocktails, have a selected drinks menu to encourage enthusiasm and mingling. You can even serve up your signature drinks if you plan on skipping those on your wedding day. Having said that, be sure not to overserve those drinks, or at least keep the liquor to a minimum. You don’t want your guests nursing a hangover at the wedding, do you? Food is also a great conversation starter, so get creative with your menu! Kick it up a notch and turn it into a fun experience by drawing from fresh local flavors, whether it’s a spicy taco stand in Cabo or a Gelato bar in Tuscany!
Engaging Activities
Pictures Courtesy: @rosiemaykelly & @daphotography_snapper
Games are great ice breakers (and a brilliant idea to avoid boredom) so plan out a few to keep your guests engaged throughout. From competitive activities like Jenga and cornhole to creative stations like a photo booth, tarot reading, or DIY cocktail mixing. To add a little personal touch and sentiment, we recommend making a photo montage or slideshow celebrating your relationship so far. Using photos of your childhood and sweet moments of your relationship as a design focal point is a great decor idea and is something your guests will love browsing through.
Featured Image Credit: @sarahjoy_photo
