Rehearsal Dinner Planning Checklist

Step by simple step, here’s how to make your rehearsal at Evenfall a night for both families to meet, mingle, and relax before the formality of the big day.

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Two to Three Months Before

Reserve Your Date in the Private Dining Area. Tradition says that the groom’s family hosts the rehearsal dinner, which may or may not be true in your case. But today couples are setting their own course with the rehearsal dinner more and more, to suit them Evenfall offers a multitude of options from Cocktails and Hors D'ouevres to Buffet Dinners, to Plated Dinners of two, three or four courses. Your rehearsal dinner is custom tailored to your preferences, just ask.
Work with our planners to set your menu. Feel free to ask for suggested menus that reflect your taste, formality, and budget. We do this all the time, and are ready to make your menu perfect for you.
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Three Months Before

Enlist those you’d like to have give toasts. This will give them time to come up with a speech. Generally, the father of the groom, if he’s hosting the dinner, speaks first. Then the best man or a return toast from the bride’s father, followed by anyone else who wishes to give a toast. The bride and groom may want to toast each other, welcome family and friends, and thank everyone for being there. (Of course, the toasts could also be spontaneous, with anyone speaking who cares to.)
Inquire about available audiovisual equipment. You—or your parents or friends—may have a slide show or photos planned as entertainment during the toasts.
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One Month Before

Mail invitations. The guest list should include the wedding party and their spouses or significant others; the parents, stepparents, grandparents, and siblings of the bride and groom; and the officiant. Out-of-town guests and close friends and relatives may be added as well. If entre selection is involved, include the choices in the invitation.

Draw up a seating plan. You’ll probably want both sets of parents (and possibly your maid of honor and best man) at your table. Our planners are always ready with suggested table plans based on your groups size and your preferences.

Purchase bridesmaids’ and groomsmen’s gifts to present at the dinner. The bridesmaids’ gifts may alternatively be presented at a bridesmaids’ lunch. You may also want to give parents thank-you gifts.

Touch base with the Restaurant. Make sure you have gotten answers to any questions and final details set.

Order flowers for tables, if desired. We can do this for you as well.

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One Week Prior

Provide the final guest count for the meal. This number is due 72 hours in advance
Make up place cards for the tables.
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