Rehearsal Dinner Invitations | What to Say and When to Send
A rehearsal dinner is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and other loved ones before the big day. The invitations that you send out should be as thoughtful as possible and clearly communicate the details of your event. Sending an invitation is the best way to make your guests feel comfortable and ensure everyone is on the same page.
However, knowing what to say and when to send it can be a little challenging. So, to help make your wedding planning more manageable, we've covered the writing tips you need to know to make your rehearsal dinner invitations a piece of cake.
Why Do I Need A Rehearsal Dinner Invitation?
A rehearsal dinner invitation is the perfect way to let your guests know all of the important details about your event in one place, so you don't end up with a ton of calls and texts asking the same questions. However, this needs to be separate from your actual wedding invitation for a few reasons.
First, it ensures that your guests will be aware of the rehearsal dinner date and time, especially if this event is being held in a different location from the wedding itself. Second, these invitations allow you to put all the information about the specific event in one place, instead of trying to include it on the wedding invitation. You don't want to confuse family members or friends. Finally, having a rehearsal dinner invitation allows you to add personalized touches, such as how formal or casual the event will be.
When Do I Send A Rehearsal Dinner Invitation?
You should send your rehearsal dinner invitations at least six to eight weeks before the event. This will give guests enough time to figure out their schedules and make arrangements for attending.
However, suppose you have a destination wedding or you choose a location that requires travel. In that case, it is best to start sending these invitations about four months prior or with the wedding invitation itself.
What Information Should Be Included On The Invitation?
Your rehearsal dinner invitations should include the following information:
The Event Host: Typically, the groom's parents host the wedding rehearsal, but the bride's parents might also host. Regardless, it should be apparent who is hosting the event on the invitation.
The Couples Name: Make sure the names of the bride and groom are included on the invitation.
Rehearsal Time and Location: Your invitation should include the name of the event, date, time, and location. Typically you'll want to mention where it is in relation to where your wedding will be held.
RSVP Information: There are two ways to ensure you hear back from your invited guests. You can either choose to include a pre-addressed and stamped card to get a guest's answer or include an e-mail address and phone number to confirm the RSVP.
5 Tips To Write The Best Rehearsal Dinner Invitation
Once you know the basics, you're ready to get started writing your invitation. If you are struggling for inspiration, check out our list of best practices so that you can create a successful rehearsal dinner invitation today!
Keep It Simple
A rehearsal dinner invitation shouldn't be any more formal than your wedding invitations. Keep it to one page and make the text easy to read. The rehearsal dinner invitation should not include any information about the wedding day as this can often become confusing for your guests.
Match The Tone And Style Of Your Wedding
Your rehearsal dinner invitation should match the tone and style of your wedding invitations. This includes using a similar font, color palette, imagery, or design elements to make it feel like they belong together. You can choose to stray away from your wedding style if you have a themed rehearsal dinner.
SEE ALSO: When to Send Baby Shower Invites
Make It Personable
Your rehearsal dinner invitation should feel personalized. Don't be afraid to add the personality of the bride and groom to the invitations. One great way to do this is to handwrite your invitations to make them feel unique to your guests. At Simply Noted, our platform makes it simple to send thousands of handwritten notes without spending time that you don't have to do it yourself.
Our handwriting machines use real ballpoint pens to create handwritten cards that are indistinguishable from the real thing. Your recipients won’t know the difference. And we make it easy to personalize each card, so keep us in mind when it’s time to send your wedding thank you cards!
Include An RSVP Date
Rehearsal dinner invitations should include a date that your guests need to respond by. Be sure to follow up with e-mail and phone calls if necessary to ensure you have an accurate guest count for your event.
Ensure You Use The Right Postage
Rehearsal dinner invitations should be sent out with the correct postage so that they arrive on time. Make sure to purchase the right amount of postage, whether you choose standard stamps or first-class mail. If you’re including a response card, place proper postage on that envelope, too.
SEE ALSO: 10 Thank You Card Designs and Tips on What to Write
Sample Rehearsal Dinner Invitation Wording
Not sure how to write your invitations? Here are a few examples you can use as a starting point.
Formal: We cordially invite you to join us at Linda and Gary's rehearsal dinner on Friday, October 21, 2021, at the Hyatt Hotel. Please include your guest's name and whether you are attending so we can plan accordingly. RSVP by October 15 to Mary Smith at 555-555-5555.
Creative: It's official! We're getting hitched! Come celebrate with us as we officially start this new chapter in our lives. If you're ready to celebrate in style at our rehearsal dinner on December 21, 2021 at 8:00 pm, fill out the RSVP card included in this invitation. Bring your funkiest clothing as we'll be hosting a 70s theme! Can't wait to see everybody.
Informal: Join the newlyweds at the rehearsal dinner before they tie the knot!! Dinner will be served at Stonebridge Country Club starting promptly at 5;30 pm on Saturday, November 25, 2021. All family members and friends are invited, so bring your dancing shoes and get ready for a great night! Please RSVP by November 19, so we know how many people will be joining us.
It Will All Get Done
When it comes to planning a wedding, there's a lot that needs to be done. This means that the rehearsal dinner may not be one of your first priorities. However, this is an integral part of the wedding weekend, and it's necessary to plan ahead for a successful event that will bring everyone together before you say, "I do." By following our tips above, you'll be able to knock your rehearsal dinner invitations out in no time!
