After researching catering services and reserving a venue, you may be days away from your wedding ceremony. That means your rehearsal dinner is right around the corner, which is the perfect opportunity for the loved ones of the bride and groom to come together. If you're currently in the planning stage, here are a few important rehearsal facts to keep in mind.  

A Planning Guide for Your Rehearsal Dinner

What happens during the rehearsal dinner?

The wedding party participates in a mock ceremony to prepare for the real event. Couples typically secure catering services to provide food and refreshments for guests during the rehearsal dinner. Many couples also encourage guests to give toasts and speeches, especially if they won't have the opportunity to do so during the reception. 

Who should I invite to the event?

Traditionally, the groom's family would host the event for the wedding party and other participants in the ceremony, including parents and grandparents. However, rules are a lot looser these days, and many couples choose to invite other special people in their lives, such as close friends and family members. It's also common to invite guests who are attending the wedding from out of town.  

Do I need to send invitations?

Some couples choose to mail formal invitations, but this isn't a necessary step. Because rehearsal dinners tend to be more casual than wedding receptions, it's socially acceptable to invite loved ones via phone calls.

If you're planning a large event, you can email everyone for greater convenience. Just be sure to provide clear instructions on how your guests should RSVP, whether you're sending a letter, calling, or emailing.   

Where should the dinner be held?

The size of your guest list usually dictates where you hold the event. For a relatively small gathering, you may choose to host it at your home or the house of a loved one. 

If you plan on inviting a significant number of guests, consider having the event at a restaurant or other venue with an appropriately sized banquet room. No matter where you choose, try to select a location that's easy for your wedding party and other guests to get to.

While there are lots of decisions to make when it comes to the rehearsal dinner, finding a quality catering service is easy when you choose Chef's Catering in Rochester, NY. Executive chef and owner Michael D. Zazzaro approaches each event with more than 15 years of experience and will work with you to develop a personalized menu. The company happily caters events of all sizes and accommodates food allergies and other dietary needs. Call (585) 752-2149 to discuss an upcoming event, or visit the website to see their sample rehearsal menus.