Wedding Rehearsal Invitation Etiquette: Timing And Tips

Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, and the same goes for the rehearsal dinner that usually precedes it. There are many things to consider, such as the guest list, the venue, the food, and, of course, the invitations. But when is the best time to send out those invites?

Timing: Mail 4-6 weeks before the wedding, after the main invites

It is recommended that wedding rehearsal invitations be mailed out four to six weeks before the wedding, and after the main wedding invitations have been sent. This gives guests ample time to make arrangements and ensures that the rehearsal dinner invitation doesn't get lost among the other wedding stationery.

When it comes to the rehearsal dinner invitation wording, keep it clear and concise. Include the host's name (if it's not the couple), the couple's names, the date, time, location, dress code, type of dinner, and RSVP information. You may also want to include the wedding website address and details about the wedding rehearsal itself, but this is only necessary if everyone invited to the dinner is also taking part in the rehearsal.

It's also important to consider the formality of the invitation. While the rehearsal dinner is typically less formal than the wedding, the invitation should reflect the level of formality of the event. This will give guests a sense of what to expect and how to dress.

If you're sending paper invitations, be sure to check the postage amount, as there's nothing worse than an under-stamped invitation! Alternatively, digital invitations are becoming more common and are a good option if you're on a budget or have a lot of guests travelling from out of town.

Finally, don't forget to include an RSVP deadline and a designated point of contact for guests to confirm their attendance.

Hosts: Include the names of the couple and the hosts

When it comes to wedding rehearsal dinner invitations, the hosts' names, as well as the couple's names, are essential components. Here are some tips and examples to help you create clear and informative invitations:

Hosts and Couple's Names:

The host's name typically comes first in the invitation, followed by the couple's names. It is customary for the groom's parents to host the rehearsal dinner, but nowadays, the couple themselves or any close family members can host the event. If the groom's parents are hosting, the invitation can read:

> "Please join us for a rehearsal dinner honouring the union of [Couple's Names] on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue Name and Address]. Hosted by [Host's Names]."

If the couple is hosting, the invitation can be worded as:

> "The soon-to-be-wedded [Couple's Names] invite you to a celebration of their love on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue Name and Address]. RSVP to [Host's Name] at [Contact Information] by [RSVP Date]."

Additional Information:

While the hosts and couple's names are crucial, don't forget to include other essential details such as the date, time, venue, dress code, RSVP information, and any special instructions. Here's an example that incorporates all these elements:

> "Please join us for a rehearsal dinner honouring [Couple's Names] on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue Name and Address]. Hosted by [Host's Names]. Kindly RSVP by [RSVP Date] to [Host's Name] at [Contact Information]."

Timing and Mailing:

It is recommended to mail the rehearsal dinner invitations four to six weeks before the wedding and after the main wedding invitations have been sent out. This gives your guests ample time to make arrangements and ensures that your rehearsal dinner doesn't overshadow the main event.

Format and Style:

Rehearsal dinner invitations can be printed or digital, depending on your preference and budget. Printed invitations are considered more special and formal, while digital invitations are more convenient and cost-effective. The style of the invitation should also reflect the formality of the event. If you've chosen a casual BBQ theme, for instance, your invitation can be more lighthearted and informal.

In conclusion, when creating your wedding rehearsal dinner invitations, remember to include the hosts' names, the couple's names, and all the essential details. Send them out in a timely manner, and choose a format and style that suits your event. Happy planning!

Guests: Be clear about who's invited

When it comes to addressing wedding rehearsal dinner invitations, it's important to be clear about who is invited. This is done by listing the names of each guest, including the full names of any children. For example, "The Shelton Family" can be used if everyone in the household is invited, while "Blake and Sandy Shelton" indicates that only the adults are invited.

If you're inviting a guest with a plus-one, try to find out their name so you can include it on the invitation. This is an important detail, as it helps to avoid confusion and ensures that everyone knows who is expected at the event.

It's also worth noting that the rehearsal dinner is usually a more intimate gathering than the wedding itself, so it's common to have a smaller guest list. The wedding party, their guests, and immediate family are typically included. Some couples also like to invite grandparents, godparents, and others with a special connection to them.

Additionally, if you're hosting a destination wedding, it's considered good etiquette to include all out-of-town guests in the rehearsal dinner as well. This is a nice way to include them in the festivities and make them feel welcomed, especially if your guest list is already quite small.

In terms of timing, rehearsal dinner invitations are typically sent out three to six weeks before the wedding, after the main wedding invitations have been mailed. This gives guests enough time to make arrangements and ensures that your rehearsal dinner doesn't overshadow the main event.

RSVPs: Include a deadline and method for guests to respond

When it comes to RSVPs, it's important to give your guests a deadline and a method to respond. This will make it easier for you to plan the event and ensure that you have an accurate headcount.

The deadline for RSVPs should be included on the invitation, and it's usually about three to four weeks before the rehearsal dinner. This gives the guests enough time to respond and allows you to plan accordingly.

As for the method of response, it's often easiest to include an email address for guests to RSVP to. You can also provide a phone number or ask guests to respond by text message. If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can include a stamped and pre-addressed RSVP card with the invitation.

It's a good idea to designate a point person who will be in charge of receiving all the responses. This is usually the host or the event organiser.

"RSVP to [name] at [email address or phone number] by [date]"

"Kindly send all responses to [name] at [email address or phone number] by [date]"

"Send all rehearsal dinner RSVPs to [name] at [email address or phone number] by [date]"

Remember to keep the wording clear and concise, and feel free to add a personal touch that reflects your unique relationship.

Tone: Match the level of formality of the invite to the event

The tone of your wedding rehearsal invitations should match the level of formality of the event. As wedding rehearsals tend to be more informal than the wedding itself, the invitations will likely be more casual in tone than the wedding invitations.

The rehearsal dinner is usually the first event of the wedding weekend, so the invitation etiquette is almost as important as the protocol for the actual wedding invitation.

The wording of your invitations should include all the essential details, such as the location, date, time, dress code, and RSVP deadline and method. You may also want to include the host of the rehearsal dinner, the names of the couple, and any other additional information such as the wedding website.

While you don't have to follow tradition exactly, it's important to thoughtfully consider who you're inviting and how to word your invitations so your guests aren't confused about the event.

Digital invitations are acceptable, but paper invitations are the traditional route and can help set the tone for the weekend. If you're sending paper invitations, remember to allow enough time for printing and assembly before they need to be mailed out.

Rehearsal dinner invitations should typically be sent out three to six weeks before the wedding, after the wedding invitations have been mailed.

Frequently asked questions