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The Rehearsal Dinner: A Meaningful Start to the Celebration
Too often, the rehearsal dinner becomes an afterthought amid the excitement of wedding planning. But it’s a moment filled with meaning—an opportunity for close family and friends to come together, share stories, express gratitude, and build anticipation for the big day ahead. My recent conversation with the mother of the groom covered a variety of great questions: What’s the best timing for the rehearsal and dinner? Who should give speeches? What’s the appropriate dress code? And how can the evening feel both relaxed and memorable? If you're in the midst of wedding planning and wondering how to approach your rehearsal dinner, you’re not alone! Let’s explore how to make this evening special, ensuring it becomes a cherished part of the wedding experience.
Feast First? Deciding When to Dine on Rehearsal Night
Timing is everything! Most couples opt to have the reheasal dinner after the rehearsal, allowing everyone to unwind and celebrate together. However, eating before the rehearsal can be a game-changer for a smooth and enjoyable evening. A well-fed group is more focused, energized, and ready to move through the ceremony run-through efficiently. Plus, gathering for dinner first allows everyone to relax, socialize, and settle into the celebratory mood before diving into logistics. By the time the rehearsal wraps up, there’s no rush to get to a restaurant or keep an event going late into the night—just a calm, stress-free transition to the wedding day ahead.
At Yellowbrick on 39, the bridal party has the special perk of staying overnight, making a pre-rehearsal dinner even more appealing. Gathering for a meal first ensures that everyone is well-fed, relaxed, and ready to focus when it’s time to run through the ceremony. Plus, since there’s no need to rush off afterward, the night can wind down naturally—whether that means enjoying a quiet moment in the cottage, sharing laughs with loved ones, or soaking in the anticipation of the big day ahead. It’s the perfect way to ease into the wedding weekend stress-free!
Toasts and Tributes?
While there is no requirement, speeches at the reheasal dinner often create the best memories—tears of joy, bursts of laughter, and heartfelt words that leave a lasting impact. In this intimate setting, speeches create a deeper connection, allowing loved ones to share personal stories, meaningful toasts and well wishes that might not fit into the fast-paced wedding day. It’s a chance for the couple’s inner circle to connect, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere before the main event. These speeches often spark conversations, strengthen relationships, and make the night truly memorable for everyone involved. So, we say a resounding yes to toasts and tributes—making the rehearsal dinner even more meaningful and memorable.
Formal and Fancy or Cool and Casual? Finding the Right Rehearsal Dinner Vibe
When it comes to the setup, the rehearsal dinner is entirely up to the couple—it’s your celebration, your way! There’s no rule that says it must match the wedding’s level of formality, so don’t feel pressured to make it an exact extension of the big day.
Many couples opt for a more laid-back atmosphere, allowing their closest family and friends to unwind and enjoy a relaxed evening before the main event. A casual rehearsal dinner fosters easy conversation, plenty of laughter, and a sense of homey comfort. Whether it’s a cozy family-style meal, a backyard BBQ vibe, or a relaxed buffet, this approach makes everyone feel at ease before the wedding day’s festivities.
On the other hand, some couples love the idea of a formal affair, using the rehearsal dinner as a chance to set an elegant tone. A beautifully set tablescape, candlelight, and a multi-course meal can create a refined and intimate experience, allowing loved ones to savor the moment in style. This is especially appealing for those who want to host a sophisticated event without the full scale of the wedding itself.
At Yellowbrick on 39, our charming barn and intimate lower level offer the perfect backdrop for either style. Whether you dream of an elegant candlelit dinner or a cozy, rustic gathering, our spaces can be transformed to fit your vision. The most important thing? Choosing a setting that reflects you—whether that’s formal and fancy or cool and casual, your rehearsal dinner should feel just right for your occasion.
Dress Code Dilemma
Deciding on the perfect rehearsal dinner attire can feel like a bit of a puzzle—should it match the wedding’s level of formality, or can it be more relaxed? The good news is that there are no hard rules, and the choice is entirely up to the couple!
Many couples opt for a dress code that complements the vibe of the evening—a formal dinner might call for cocktail or semi-formal attire, while a casual gathering could mean sundresses, nice jeans, or even a fun, themed look. It’s also a great chance for the couple to set the tone: some love to dress up, while others enjoy a more relaxed and comfortable style before the big day.
For guests, clear guidance is key—a simple note on invitations or wedding websites helps everyone feel confident in their outfit choice. At Yellowbrick on 39, we’ve seen everything from romantic, flowy, semi-formal attire that complements the beauty of the gardens to relaxed, rustic-chic ensembles that embrace the warmth of our barn setting. No matter the style, the most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and ready to enjoy this special evening of connection and celebration!
Picking Up the Tab: The Traditional vs. Modern View on Who Pays for the Rehearsal Dinner
When it comes to footing the bill for the rehearsal dinner, tradition and modern etiquette don’t always align—but that’s okay! Traditionally, the groom’s family takes on the responsibility of hosting and covering the costs of the rehearsal dinner, serving as their contribution to the wedding festivities. This custom stems from the days when the bride’s family typically financed the wedding itself.
However, modern weddings embrace flexibility, and it’s becoming increasingly common for the couple to split the cost or for both families to contribute in a way that feels fair for everyone involved. Some couples even choose to host the event themselves, especially if they have a specific vision in mind or are managing the wedding budget independently.
Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer—just what works best for your situation. Open communication between families is key to deciding who will host and cover expenses. Whether the groom’s family takes the lead, the couple foots the bill, or both sides pitch in, the goal is the same: to create a warm and welcoming evening that brings everyone together before the big day.
At Yellowbrick on 39, we’ve seen all kinds of arrangements—from formal sit-down dinners hosted by the groom’s family to relaxed, couple-funded gatherings with a fun, casual vibe. No matter who picks up the tab, the focus should always be on celebrating love, laughter, and the exciting wedding weekend ahead!
Why an Early Wrap-Up Matters: Ensuring a Perfect Wedding Day
While it might be tempting to keep the celebration going late into the night, wrapping up at a reasonable time is one of the best ways to set the couple up for success on their wedding day—especially for the bride. Our cottage was meticulously designed with relaxation in mind and we want the bride and her girls to make the most of the evening by soaking in the hot tub, sitting around the fire and then retiring in our pristine and cozy cottage for a dreamy nights sleep.
So although the rehearsal dinner is meant to be a joyful prelude, it's not a late-night marathon. The bride and groom, along with their wedding party, need time to unwind, get a good night’s rest, and wake up feeling refreshed for one of the most important days of their lives. A late-night gathering can lead to exhaustion, stress, and last-minute chaos, all of which can take away from the excitement and energy of the wedding day.
At Yellowbrick on 39, we close the venue at 9 PM to ensure that the space remains pristine and that our team can focus on preparing every detail for the wedding. This means setting up décor, ensuring the ceremony and reception areas are flawless, and handling any final touches to create a picture-perfect setting. It’s all about honoring the bride and groom by giving them the beautiful, polished wedding day they deserve.
For those who aren’t quite ready to call it a night, we recommend taking the celebration off-site—whether that means heading to a local veue with live music, we recommend these fun spots just minutes from the venue (Bag's Sports Pub, Hans' Place, Hoodletown, Hog Heaven or Habanero's) hosting a casual gathering elsewhere, or simply enjoying quiet moments with loved ones. By keeping the rehearsal dinner special but not exhausting, everyone can wake up feeling their best and fully present for the unforgettable day ahead.
Who’s Who? Curating Your Rehearsal Dinner Guest List
Figuring out who to invite to your rehearsal dinner can feel a bit like making a VIP list—who needs to be there, and who’s just a fun bonus? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the key is to keep it meaningful, stress-free, and totally you.
At its core, the rehearsal dinner is meant for the people directly involved in the wedding, including:
You and your soon-to-be spouse (obviously!)
Your immediate family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
Your wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, ring bearer, and their parents if they’re little)
Your officiant (if they’re not running off to another event)
This group keeps things intimate and purposeful, giving everyone a chance to connect before the big day.
The Bonus Round: Expanding the List
Want to make it a bigger celebration? Here are a few extras you can invite, but don’t have to:
Out-of-town guests – A sweet way to welcome those who traveled for your big day
Aunts, uncles, cousins, and close extended family – If they’re a big part of your life, why not?
Close friends who aren’t in the wedding party – Your ride-or-die crew deserves a seat at the table
Plus-ones for your wedding party – If they’re bringing a significant other to the wedding, it’s a thoughtful touch to include them
Things to Keep in Mind
Venue & Budget – If you’re working with a cozy space (like our charming barn or lower-level space at Yellowbrick on 39), a smaller guest list might be best.
Vibe Check – Do you want an intimate dinner with heartfelt toasts or a laid-back pre-wedding bash? Your guest list sets the tone!
No Stress Allowed – This night is about celebrating, not about scrambling to host everyone. Pick a guest list that feels right for you, and don’t overthink it!
At Yellowbrick on 39, we’ve seen it all—from chill, intimate dinners with just the wedding party to big, lively gatherings that feel like a mini wedding. No matter how many seats you fill, the most important thing is having the people who make you smile, laugh, and feel totally loved as you head into your big day!
Fun and Games at the Rehearsal: Keep It Light, Keep It Fun!
A wedding rehearsal doesn’t have to be all logistics and formalities—it can also be a chance to have fun, break the ice, and get everyone excited for the big day! After all, this is likely the first time both families, the wedding party, and close friends are spending time together, so why not make it a little more memorable?
Adding fun elements to your rehearsal can help guests feel more comfortable and connected before the wedding. A simple game of wedding party trivia can test how well everyone knows the couple, bringing out laughter and unexpected stories. Another great idea is “Who’s Most Likely To?”, where guests guess things like “Who’s most likely to cry first at the wedding?” or “Who’s most likely to tear up the dance floor?” For a sentimental touch, consider a round of Couples’ Storytime, where friends and family share funny or heartfelt memories about the bride and groom. If you want to encourage mingling, a photo scavenger hunt can be a fun challenge—guests can snap pictures with someone who’s known the couple the longest or take a selfie with the officiant. Even something as simple as giving speech-givers a chance for a lighthearted practice round can make the night more relaxed.
Bringing a little fun into the rehearsal serves a purpose beyond just entertainment. It helps break the ice for those who may not know each other well, eases nerves for those with big roles on the wedding day, and sets the tone for a joyful celebration ahead. At Yellowbrick on 39, we love seeing couples add their personalities to the rehearsal dinner, making it a relaxed, engaging, and meaningful start to the wedding weekend. Whether you keep it classic or add a few fun twists, the most important thing is ensuring everyone feels connected, included, and excited for the big day!
Gifts at the Rehearsal: Do We or Don’t We?
The rehearsal dinner is a heartfelt gathering, and many couples wonder—is it necessary to give gifts at this event? Traditionally, it’s been common for the bride and groom to present gifts to their wedding party, parents, and sometimes even officiants as a token of appreciation. But is this a must-do, or just a nice-to-do?
Why Give Gifts?
Giving gifts at the rehearsal dinner is a wonderful way to show gratitude to those who have supported the couple throughout their wedding journey. The wedding party has dedicated time, effort, and often money to be part of the big day, and a thoughtful gift—like personalized keepsakes, jewelry, or a heartfelt note—can be a meaningful gesture. It’s also a great time to give practical gifts, like ties, cufflinks, or robes for getting ready the next day.
Why Skip It?
On the other hand, gifts aren’t a strict requirement and shouldn’t feel like an obligation. Some couples choose to give gifts before or after the wedding instead, or opt for a heartfelt toast or handwritten notes rather than physical presents. Additionally, if the couple is already covering expenses like attire or accommodations, an extra gift might not feel necessary.
What’s Trending Now?
Modern couples are personalizing their approach to gift-giving. Instead of one-size-fits-all presents, they’re opting for experience-based gifts like spa days, concert tickets, or handwritten letters paired with a small, meaningful item. Some are also choosing to spread the appreciation, giving wedding party gifts earlier (such as during a bridal shower or bachelor/bachelorette trip) rather than at the rehearsal dinner itself.
At Yellowbrick on 39, we’ve seen it both ways—some couples love the tradition of presenting gifts at the rehearsal dinner, while others keep things simple with heartfelt words and a toast. Ultimately, the choice is yours! Whether you go with gifts, handwritten notes, or just a warm thank-you, what matters most is making sure your closest people feel valued and appreciated before the big day.
Making Your Rehearsal Dinner Unforgettable at Yellowbrick on 39
Your rehearsal dinner is more than just a pre-wedding event—it’s the kickoff to one of the most exciting weekends of your life! Whether you envision an elegant evening with heartfelt toasts or a relaxed gathering filled with laughter and fun, the most important thing is that it reflects you. While traditions offer guidance, they aren’t rules. You don’t have to follow a set formula—your rehearsal dinner should be exactly what makes you and your guests feel comfortable and excited for the big day ahead.
At Yellowbrick on 39, we make planning your rehearsal dinner and wedding weekend as seamless and stress-free as possible. As a barn and garden wedding venue near Canton, Ohio, we offer a breathtaking setting where your rehearsal, wedding, and accommodations can all happen in one place. Our Friday-Saturday package guarantees on-site rehearsal space and overnight accommodations for the bridal party, giving you time to relax, connect, and truly soak in this special time. For guests staying nearby, there are plenty of comfortable accommodations just minutes away, as well as fun local attractions to keep everyone entertained throughout the weekend.
Looking for post-rehearsal fun? You won’t have to go far! Within just a few miles, you’ll find venues with live music, a recreational area with pickleball and basketball courts, and even putt-putt facilities—perfect for those looking to continue the celebration after the venue closes for the evening. Whether you prefer a quiet night of rest or a little extra excitement before the big day, the choice is yours!
We know that planning a wedding comes with a lot of decisions, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Yellowbrick on 39, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the process, from the rehearsal dinner to the moment you say "I do." We take care of the details, so you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating love, family, and the beginning of your forever.
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