In the United States, almost 80% of soon-to-be-wed couples host a rehearsal dinner ahead of their big day, making it an exciting pre-wedding event that’s more popular than wedding showers and honeymoons.
This trend is gradually making its way over our side of the pond, too, meaning that more and more Brits are looking to kick off the fun a day or two before the main celebrations.
But as it becomes a traditional occurrence in the UK for future spouses, what can you do to add your own twist?
Lake District Country Hotels, owners of luxurious wedding venues in the North West of England, offer inspiration for themes, food, and locations to make your rehearsal dinner one to truly remember.
Garden BBQ
If you are getting married close to home, whether in a beautiful wedding venue in Lake District or a picturesque castle in Northumberland, think about organising a rehearsal dinner in your backyard – especially if you have a spacious garden!
Robert Timms, Hotel Manager at Merewood Country House Hotel, explains that BBQs are always a good shout.
“BBQs are a quirky, people-pleasing option that will certainly make your peckish guests smile,” Robert Timms said. “You can grill up some burgers and hot dogs for your meat-loving pals and veggie alternatives for friends who prefer a plant-based menu.
“The good thing about BBQs is that you can host either during the day or at night. This way, you can pick the best time that works for you, your better half, and your hungry invitees.”
Honeymoon-themed food and entertainment
If you want to surprise your friends and family with something a little extra, use your upcoming honeymoon as an innovative ace up your sleeve.
Flying to Mexico for a couple of weeks after finally tying the knot? You could treat your guests to a burrito and taco meal at a Mexican restaurant. And if you have the opportunity, you may want to hire a local band of mariachi to create the right ambience with their sombreros, trumpets, and guitars.
But if you’re staying in Europe and spending some romantic, post-wedding time in Tuscany or Sicily, your rehearsal dinner could follow an Italian narrative. You could have opera singers, pizza-making sessions, and small gelato carts to pretend you’re celebrating with your loved ones on the shores of the Amalfi coast.
Wine or beer tasting
If you and your better half have a soft spot for lagers and rosé, there would be nothing better than to take your family and friends to a brewery or winery.
Of course, you can discuss the various tastings with your personal sommelier, who will know exactly what to serve based on the food that’s on offer. And let’s be honest – you won’t need to arrange a full sit-down supper.
With wine and artisanal beer flowing, you will all want to chat and mingle, and occasionally nibble a few light treats like bruschettas, olives, and crudités.
Another benefit of hosting your rehearsal dinner at a brewery or winery is that it’s bound to be scenic and aesthetic. With plenty of rustic barrels and vineyards in the background, you won’t have to focus too much on decorations.
Plan for a photoshoot
There is a good chance that your guests, as well as yourself and your partner, will put a lot of effort into dressing up for such a meaningful occasion. So why not capture these happy moments with a portrait session?
It is also an excellent opportunity to reinforce your comfort level with your wedding photographer.
By posing for them at your rehearsal dinner, you and your invitees will be more familiar with their modus operandi. This way, you will also smile more confidently to the camera on the wedding day.
Outdoor movie night
Another idea to add an alternative spin to your rehearsal dinner is to set up an outdoor movie night.
You will need some bean bags, blankets, a projector, and a screen. And, of course, don’t forget the popcorn and other tasty snacks – you don’t want rumbling stomachs to interfere with the iconic scenes.
What film should you watch? You could opt for a wedding-themed classic or one of your favourite movies of all time. If there is a specific film that you and your better half watch on repeat, then it might be time to rewind it once more and enjoy it with your invitees too.
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