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Who Should Be Invited to the Rehearsal Dinner: Emily Post
Planning a wedding involves making countless decisions, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the menu. One important aspect that sometimes gets overlooked is the rehearsal dinner. Traditionally held the night before the wedding, this intimate gathering allows the couple, their families, and close friends to come together and rehearse the ceremony, followed by a celebratory meal. When it comes to determining the guest list for this event, etiquette expert Emily Post offers some valuable insights.
According to Emily Post, the rehearsal dinner is an opportunity to show appreciation and gratitude to those who have been actively involved in the wedding preparations. The primary guests who should be invited are the immediate family members of the couple, including parents, siblings, and grandparents. These individuals have likely played a significant role in the planning process and have supported the couple in making their dream wedding a reality.
In addition to immediate family, it is customary to invite the wedding party, which typically includes the maid of honor, bridesmaids, best man, groomsmen, and any ushers or flower girls. These individuals have been chosen by the couple to accompany them on their special day and help make it memorable. Inviting them to the rehearsal dinner allows for bonding and camaraderie before the big event.
Close friends who have played a significant role in the couple’s lives may also be invited to the rehearsal dinner. These friends might include childhood friends, college roommates, or long-time confidants. Emily Post suggests that couples consider the size and intimacy of the event when deciding whether to extend invitations to friends beyond the immediate wedding party and family.
When it comes to extended family members and out-of-town guests, the decision to invite them to the rehearsal dinner is at the couple’s discretion. While it is a nice gesture to include them, it is not obligatory. If the venue or budget allows, inviting these individuals can help create a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
FAQs:
Q: Should children be invited to the rehearsal dinner?
A: Emily Post advises that the decision to invite children depends on the couple’s preference and the formality of the event. If the rehearsal dinner is an intimate affair or an adults-only event, it is acceptable to exclude children. However, if children are included in the wedding party or are close family members, it is considerate to invite them to the dinner.
Q: Can additional guests be invited to the rehearsal dinner?
A: While it is acceptable to invite additional guests to the rehearsal dinner, Emily Post suggests considering the size and intimacy of the event. If the venue can accommodate more guests, and the couple wishes to extend invitations beyond the immediate family and wedding party, it is perfectly acceptable to do so.
Q: Should the officiant be invited to the rehearsal dinner?
A: Inviting the officiant to the rehearsal dinner is a thoughtful gesture. It provides an opportunity for the couple to get to know the officiant better and helps create a comfortable and familiar atmosphere for the wedding ceremony.
In conclusion, the rehearsal dinner is a time to gather with loved ones and express gratitude for their support. Following Emily Post’s advice, the immediate family, wedding party, and close friends should be invited. Including extended family members and out-of-town guests can enhance the inclusivity and warmth of the event. Ultimately, the guest list should be tailored to the couple’s preferences and the size and formality of the dinner. By considering these factors, couples can create a memorable and enjoyable rehearsal dinner experience.
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