Why Couples Should Have a Rehearsal Dinner: Creating Unforgettable Pre-Wedding Memories

Why Should YOU Have A Wedding Rehearsal Dinner?

Planning a wedding involves a lot of details and decision making, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the dream wedding gown. Amidst all the running around and preparations, a lot of couples may ask themselves: “why should we have a wedding rehearsal dinner?!”.  Well, let’s dive into the reasons why we think couples, or their parents, should plan a rehearsal dinner and how this intimate gathering adds to the overall wedding experience.

The Importance of Rehearsal Dinners

Wedding Party Bonding Time: 

A rehearsal dinner provides an opportunity for the couple, the bridal party and close family members to get together before the wedding, catch up and celebrate in an intimate setting before the big day! In today’s busy world, some wedding party members may have not yet been introduced, so this sets a relaxed and joyful tone for the wedding weekend. Whether you chose to have a private rooftop dinner overlooking the Savannah skyline, food trucks at a brewery or any of the other countless options that Savannah has to offer, that extra time with your guests will always be a treasured memory.  Plus, should you wish, you can invite other guests or friends to join the group for some after-dinner drinks and live music.

Practice Makes Perfect: 

As the name suggests, the rehearsal allows for a run-through of the wedding ceremony, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and the flow of events. This practice session reduces anxiety and ensures a smooth and seamless wedding day. In Savannah, often you will have your wedding rehearsal at the same location that the actual ceremony will be taking place, but if that’s not possible due to scheduling some couples choose to have it take place at the location of their rehearsal dinner. Either way, be sure to get in touch with our event planning team, who can help find the best wedding rehearsal dinner venues in Savannah and help plan the special occasion!

Appreciation and Gratitude: 

It's a chance for the couple to express gratitude and appreciation to their loved ones who have supported them throughout the wedding planning process. Personalized speeches and heartfelt gestures add warmth and significance to the event. Wedding rehearsal dinner benefits also include a chance to allow other members of the family or wedding party to make a toast to the couple and give their well-wishes.

Intimate Wedding Celebrations: 

Unlike the grandeur of the wedding reception, the rehearsal dinner is typically a more intimate wedding celebration, allowing for meaningful conversations, laughter, and shared reminiscing in a cozy setting. It’s a time for pre-wedding bonding before the big day and creating wedding memories together.

Showcase Local Cuisine & Vendors: 

Couples can use the rehearsal dinner to showcase local cuisine or favorite dishes, especially if some guests are traveling for the occasion, adding a touch of regional flavor and delighting guests with Savannahian culinary experiences - we are the Hostess City after all! It is also a perfect opportunity to thank your wedding rehearsal dinner guests for all their help in the run up to the wedding with some gift baskets, full of local artisanal treats. 

Did You Know…

You can contact Ivory & Beau Wedding & Event Planners to help plan your wedding rehearsal dinner party and design?! We LOVE working with couples who would like some help with planning a rehearsal dinner. We also commonly work with the parents of the couple, who may have decided to throw the couple this intimate pre-wedding celebration dinner. So, if you need some Savannah rehearsal dinner ideas or rehearsal dinner flower arrangements, be sure to get in touch with our team of experts who can help throw the perfect intimate wedding rehearsal dinner! 

BONUS: What should I wear to my own wedding rehearsal dinner? 

Finding the perfect wedding rehearsal dinner dress for the bride can be stressful, but luckily our Bridal Boutique also proudly offers Bridal Mini Dresses, which are literally PERFECT for the rehearsal dinner! If you’d like to browse our Bridal Mini & Shortie Dresses, click here!  Or, if you’d like to book an appointment to try on some of our cute wedding rehearsal dinner dress outfits, click here!

FINAL THOUGHTS…

Planning a rehearsal dinner is not just a tradition; it's a chance to create lasting memories with loved ones and set the stage for a memorable wedding weekend celebration. Whether you opt for a casual gathering or an elegant soirée, the rehearsal dinner adds depth and meaning to your wedding journey, making it a cherished part of your love story. Embrace this pre-wedding tradition and savor the joy of an intimate night with your closest loved ones, before saying "I do."


To Schedule A Call With Ivory & Beau Event Planners & Florists


Credits:

The Couple: Natalie & Will || Photographer: Ashly McCoy || Florist: Ivory & Beau || Event Planner: Ivory & Beau  || Rehearsal Dinner Venue: The Drayton Hotel