Rehearsal Dinner Checklist
Keep your wedding rehearsal dinner simple and stress-free. Use this checklist template to plan the guest list, timing, venue, menu, décor, toasts, and final payments.
Use this template
Start a rehearsal dinner checklist from this template and adjust it for your style — restaurant dinner, backyard barbecue, or casual gathering.
Customize tasks, add notes, and reuse this checklist for future family events.
Rehearsal Dinner Checklist Preview
This template helps you plan the key details of your rehearsal dinner so everyone feels welcomed and knows what to expect.
Guest list & invitations
- • Decide who will be invited (wedding party, immediate family, out-of-town guests)
- • Confirm headcount and any plus-ones
- • Choose invitation format (formal invite, email, or verbal)
- • Share date, time, and location with all guests
Venue & timing
- • Reserve restaurant or rehearsal dinner venue
- • Confirm start and end times with the venue
- • Coordinate timing with ceremony rehearsal and travel time
- • Confirm parking details or transportation if needed
Menu & drinks
- • Decide on menu style (plated, family-style, buffet)
- • Confirm dietary accommodations and kid-friendly options
- • Choose drink options (open bar, limited bar, non-alcoholic)
- • Confirm final headcount and per-person cost
Toasts, gifts & details
- • Decide who will give toasts or speeches
- • Prepare any thank-you gifts for wedding party or parents
- • Plan any special moments (slideshows, games, or stories)
- • Bring place cards or simple décor if desired
Payments & follow-up
- • Confirm payment method and tipping policy with venue
- • Prepare gratuities for servers or event staff
- • Share any final schedule changes with guests
- • Pack any items that need to be transported back home
Rehearsal Dinner Checklist FAQ
Who usually gets invited to the rehearsal dinner?
Typically, the wedding party and immediate family are invited. Some couples also include out-of-town guests or close friends.
When should the rehearsal dinner take place?
Most couples schedule it the evening before the wedding, after the ceremony rehearsal.
Do we need décor for the rehearsal dinner?
Not necessarily. Many rehearsal dinners are simple. Use this checklist to decide if you want minimal décor, photos, or small personal touches.
Ready to plan your rehearsal dinner?
Start with this template, then customize it for your guest list, venue, and style.
About this template
This rehearsal dinner checklist helps you organize a relaxed, meaningful gathering before your wedding day.
Use it whether you’re hosting at a restaurant, someone’s home, or your venue.
Save, edit & export with Pro
- Save your rehearsal dinner checklist
- Adjust it for other family gatherings later
- Export to share with co-hosts or family