It's true: it isn't your wedding; however, the rehearsal dinner sets the precedent – as well as the tone – for your nuptials before the big day even begins. Though you'll be focused on planning your ceremony and reception, it only makes sense to focus some of your bridal energy on this matrimonial milestone to commence the celebration.
If you've poured your heart and soul into your wedding day and completely forgotten about your upcoming pre-wedding dinner, we've put together some style ideas – from real rehearsal dinners – to inspire your creativity and assist in the aethetic and design of this important event!
Floral Arrangements
For autumn nuptials, going with a darker, slightly more rustic hue in your floral accents – similar to this deep red and purple hydrangea arrangement – is not only appropriate, it's festive and organic! Photo by Jose Villa Photography; Consulting by Mindy Weiss Party Consultants; Rentals by Revelry Event Designers
For couples that want to go with a more expansive cluster of blooms: you can add various coordinating branches and vines to your centerpieces to embolden their presence at your dinner. Photo by Roey Yohai Photography; Invitations & Calligraphy by Lehr and Black
If you and your sweetie want to keep your event simple, consider making one hue the center of attention – as seen in the style of this arrangement of white orchids and roses. Photo by Vue Photography; Consulting by TOAST Events; Floral Design by Jackson Durham Events
To make your event really stand out, select a bloom or two that matches the color scheme of the evening, add some verdant leaves, and you'll have your entire rehearsal dinner motif in a vase! Photo by John Russo Photography; Consulting by International Event Company
Food
Quell your guests' appetites with these meat-lovers hor d'oeuvres – filet mignon on a crostini garnished with sour cream, bell peppers, and parsley. Photo by Roey Yohai Photography
If you want to keep to a coastal theme, consider having a seafood dinner – complete with a lobster bake – for your evening with family and friends. Photo by Justine Ungaro; Consulting by SoCo Events
To keep things comfortable and cozy, include a flatbrad on your menu – guests will feel at home with this classic dish! Photo by Jessica Claire Photography
For brides and grooms that desire adding some spice to their night, present attendees with a "flight of salsa" to accent your flavorful menu. Photo by Vue Photography; Consulting by TOAST Events
Calligraphy
For a garden-inspired event, keep your invitations, menu, and escort cards soft and delicate like this style, which is accented with graceful greenery and perennials. Photo by Jessica Claire Photography
For a more feminine look, consider this rose styling, embellished with an artful blossom to match. Photo by Roey Yohai Photography; Invitations & Calligraphy by Lehr and Black
We love how this particular style matches the floral arrangments so perfectly – it never hurts to coordinate! Photo by Jose Villa Photography; Consulting by Mindy Weiss Party Consultants; Menu by Lehr and Black; Rentals by Revelry Event Designers
This sentimental poem is masterly penned and decorated, giving the dinner a sweetly simple warmth. Photo by Elizabeth Messina; Event Design by Bob Gail Special Events
Tablescapes
If your dinner happens to be in a wine cellar – or another dimly lit venue – this is a wonderful way to bring some love and light to your tables! Photo by Elisabeth Millay Photography; Consulting by DFW Events; Floral Design by Jackson Durham Events
For alfresco events – such as brunches or garden-themed parties – these floral-print linens and mossy centerpiece concept are sure to delight. Photo by Elizabeth Messina; Event Design by Bob Gail Special Events
If you're going for opulence, integrate gold and champagne hues into the décor – similarly, choose an open venue with plently of space! Photo by Elisabeth Millay Photography; Consulting by DFW Events; Floral Design by Jackson Durham Events
Keep your evening playful and light with whimiscal pops of color and and intricate, multi-colored patterns. Photo by Roey Yohai Photography
For even more stunning rehearsal dinner décor, check out our Rehearsal Dinner inspiration board, or browse images from real rehearsal dinners and wedding events in our photo galleries!
