The wedding day. It’s full of details and decisions. But what about other wedding events, like the rehearsal dinner? Here are some tips for planning the festivities.

Keep it (more) casual

The last thing you want to do is upstage the wedding with your rehearsal dinner. That’s not to say that the rehearsal dinner shouldn’t be a lovely event, but it should stand on it’s own. This could also be the first time that your friends and family are meeting each other for the first time, so having a bit more relaxed environment will make everyone feel comfortable.

Incorporate fun hobbies or activities

Do you and your fiance love sports? Consider hosting your rehearsal dinner at a stadium or upscale sports bar. Love camping? Incorporate outdoor touches like a s’mores station and fit pit. The rehearsal dinner allows your to incorporate fun touches that may be too casual for the wedding, while allowing you to share your passions with your guests.

Keep the guest list small(er)

Tradition dictates that out-of-town guests should be invited to the rehearsal dinner. But so many couples have a large majority of guests traveling for the wedding that the rehearsal dinner guest list can end up as long as the wedding guest list! To avoid this, stick to immediate family and wedding party for the rehearsal dinner, and consider a welcome party afterwards for the other guests to join.

Open the floor for toasts

Many people want to give toasts to the couple to celebrate their wedding. But at the wedding reception, everyone wants to dance and have a good time! Consider allowing guests to give toasts at the rehearsal dinner instead. At the very least, the host(s) and couple should plan to say a few words to thank everyone for coming.

Don’t have too much fun

You’re having a great time with your friends, celebrating your last evening as a single gal or guy. But be careful! Too much celebrating can lead to a less than pleasant wedding day - you don’t want puffy red eyes or a pounding headache. Get to bed early and drink plenty of water.