There are many events to plan regarding your big day including the reception and bridal shower. Having a rehearsal dinner may seem unnecessary to brides who have already spent a lot of money on their wedding. However, rehearsals pause your hectic planning so you can interact with your close family and friends. And if you add a happy hour after the rehearsal, it allows your wedding party and close family from out of town to enjoy each other and casually bond. Here are four benefits to adding a rehearsal dinner and a fun cocktail hour to your list of wedding events.

Rehearsal Dinners Offer These 4 Advantages

1. Seeing Everyone Before the Big Day

Many people travel from out of town to attend wedding festivities. By hosting a rehearsal dinner, you’ll see the wedding party before the ceremony. At the cocktail hour, you’ll see close family and friends from out of town afterward. Couples who host larger gatherings often aim to talk to every guest during the big day, so it’s nice to know you’ll have extra opportunities to catch up with loved ones.

2. Introducing Loved Ones to One Another at Cocktail Hour

It’s not uncommon for couples' families and friends to meet one another at the wedding. Make sure your Aunt Sally and your partner’s cousin Matt meet at the rehearsal happy hour, so they’ll be old friends when it’s time for the ceremony and reception.

3. Handing Out Gifts at the Rehearsal Dinner

Many couples thank their wedding parties and parents with gifts at the rehearsal dinner. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, consider inviting all the guests and providing small party favors for everyone.

Put together bags featuring maps and tourist info on your favorite spots in the area to ensure everyone enjoys their time in the city. After all, you may not have time to provide in-person recommendations for every attendee among all the festivities.

4. Calming Your Nerves 

People spend many months planning their weddings. Hosting a rehearsal dinner and happy hour will allow you to relax for a few hours during this potentially stressful period. Enjoy spending time with friends and family and relaxing with your soon-to-be spouse to calm any pre-ceremony jitters. Hosting a dinner allows people plenty of time to arrive if they’re traveling from out of town. They can enjoy some tasty food after a long drive or flight before enjoying cocktails and loosening up before the big day.

If you’re looking for the perfect place for a happy hour and rehearsal dinner, contact Starlite Lounge & Banquet Room in Lancaster County, NE. Call the Lincoln area company at (402) 475-8822 to learn about their specialty cocktails and catering options. Or, visit the website for information on their banquet room that seats 56 or holds 70 for standing-only events.