A rehearsal dinner is an important event before the big wedding day. One essential part of planning this event is creating and sending out the invitations.
This easy-to-follow guide from the professional wedding planning team at the historic Bristlecone Inn will walk you through the dos and don’ts of rehearsal dinner invitations to guarantee your event runs smoothly and your guests feel welcome and informed.
The Ultimate Guide to Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Do: Send Invitations Early
One of the most important things to remember when planning your rehearsal dinner is to send out the invitations early. Aim to send them at least 6-8 weeks before the event. This gives your guests plenty of time to make arrangements, like requesting time off work or booking travel if needed.
Don’t: Forget to Include Important Details
Make sure your invitations include all the necessary information for your guests. This includes:
- The names of the hosts (usually the couple or their parents).
- The date and time of the rehearsal dinner.
- The location and address of the venue.
- The theme or dress code, if applicable.
- RSVP information, such as a phone number or email address.
Do: Match the Invitation Design to the Theme or Wedding Style
Your rehearsal dinner invitations should reflect the theme or style of the wedding. If the wedding is formal and elegant, the invitations should follow suit. If the wedding is more casual, opt for a laid-back design. Matching the invitation design to the theme or wedding style helps set the tone for the event and gives guests an idea of what to expect.
Don’t: Exclude Important Guests
The guest list for a rehearsal dinner typically includes the wedding party, immediate family members, and sometimes close friends or out-of-town guests. Make sure you don’t accidentally leave anyone important off the list. If you’re unsure about who to invite, consult with the couple or their parents for guidance.
Do: Provide Clear RSVP Instructions
It’s vital to know how many people will be attending the rehearsal dinner so you can make the necessary arrangements for seating, food, and other aspects of the event. Make it easy for guests to RSVP by providing clear instructions on responding, whether through a phone call, email, or even an online form.
Don’t: Use Complicated Language or Phrases
Remember that your rehearsal dinner invitations are for various guests, including people who may not be familiar with wedding etiquette or terminology. Keep the language simple and easy to understand. Avoid confusing phrases or jargon that might leave your guests unsure about the event’s details.
Do: Proofread and Double-Check the Invitations
Before you send out the invitations, proofread them for any typos or errors. Double-check that all the information is accurate, including the date, time, and location. It’s also a good idea to have someone else look over the invitations, just in case you missed something.
Don’t: Wait Until the Last Minute to Send Invitations
As mentioned earlier, sending out your invitations early is important to give your guests enough time to make arrangements. Don’t wait until the last minute to send them out, as this can cause stress for both you and your guests. Additionally, late invitations might result in a lower turnout for the event.
By following these dos and don’ts for rehearsal dinner invitations, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable and stress-free event. Proper planning, clear communication, and attention to detail will ensure that your guests feel welcomed and informed, setting the stage for a wonderful evening of celebration before the big day.
Build the Perfect Invite with the Bristlecone Inn Team
Crafting the perfect rehearsal dinner invitation is important to planning a successful and memorable event. The experienced team of wedding coordinators and planners at the Bristlecone Inn has accumulated valuable insights over the years to guide you through the process, ensuring your invitations are well-designed, informative, and reflective of your wedding’s theme or style.
This expert team will help you avoid common pitfalls, manage your guest list, and create an invitation that sets the stage for a magical evening. By entrusting your event to the skilled team at the Bristlecone Inn, you can focus on enjoying the celebration with your loved ones, knowing that every detail of your dream rehearsal dinner has been meticulously considered and planned to perfection.
Contact a professional coordination team at the Bristlecone Inn today to help you get started building a perfect wedding invitation.