Who Gets Invited to a Wedding Rehearsal Dinner?

By Jane Williams, eHow Contributor

A wedding rehearsal dinner traditionally takes place on the evening before the wedding day. After the details of the wedding ceremony are discussed and it is rehearsed, the groom’s family hosts a dinner to celebrate the upcoming day and give toasts and well wishes to the happy couple. Aside from the obvious guests, those involved in the rehearsal, the invitation list of the rehearsal dinner can be as vast or intimate as preferable.

Family

The couple’s families are welcomed to join the festive occasion. Parents, grandparents and siblings of the couple should be on the guest list, as well as their significant others. The invitation of children is up to the planner of the event, as well as the inclusion of other relatives such as cousins and aunts or uncles.

Bridal Party

The bridal party, including all bridesmaids, groomsmen and child attendants, are also must-haves on the rehearsal dinner invite list. Spouses or significant others should also be welcomed, as well as the parents of any children taking part in the wedding.

Wedding Officiant

The wedding officiant — a minister, priest or other official — is sometimes invited to the rehearsal dinner, along with the spouse. This is not mandatory, but if the couple or their families have a close relationship with the officiant, it’s a gesture of appreciation.

Out-Of-Town Guests

Since you may have family or friends traveling from out of town to attend your wedding, consider inviting them to the rehearsal dinner as a way to catch up before the bustle of the big day. Don’t forget any significant others or children when planning for food or reservations.