The Rehearsal Trends...This Is Not Your Father’s Rehearsal Dinner

Nothing works better as an icebreaker between two soon-to-be-united sets of families than the rehearsal dinner. It’s the perfect time to bring everyone together for conversation, mingling, and a heartfelt Thank You! It’s also an ideal time to do something imaginative, fun and unexpected the night before your big event.

“Become a bit more daring with the menu,” suggests Elizabeth Webb, director of event services for Charlotte Arrangements. “Try something ethnic. Or, if people are traveling in, give them a taste of your city. Choose a menu filled with your favorite dishes. Create a specialty drink with meaning. Really show your personality.”

Lots of couples plan rehearsal dinners in the exact opposite style of their wedding, says Ivy Robinson, owner of Ivy Robinson Designs in Charlotte. “If a wedding is higher end, we are seeing a more casual rehearsal dinner — like a fish fry, especially in the South.”

Themed dinners are a big trend, too — from a seafood broil, to a dinner built around a particular color, to a Mexican fiesta celebrating the bride and groom’s honeymoon destination — the sky’s the limit. Couples are also adding magicians, photo booths, caricature artists, palm readers, strolling violinists, and family slide shows to the mix.

“After-parties (where folks convene after the rehearsal dinner) are big with younger couples who haven’t seen their college friends in several years,” adds Kay Emad, event coordinator with Bentley’s on 27 in Charlotte.

For those who must watch the budget, consider hip alternatives to the usual sit-downs. A wine and cheese tasting, a barbecue, a potluck supper — even a fun night at the local bowling alley — are unique ideas that are easy on the pocketbook.

Above all, keep in mind that while the rehearsal dinner is still ceremonial, it doesn’t have to be conventional. And it’s a terrific opportunity for you to let your family and friends experience some of the things you love. ~KGM