One of the largest responsibilities for the groom and his family will be Planning the rehearsal dinner. How will you remember everything without losing your mind? This checklist offers a helpful timeline for what should be done and when.
9-12 MONTHS OUT
• Locate and secure a venue. Determine what the deposit amount is and when the final balance will be due.
• If you’ll be using a caterer, book one as soon as possible (caterers are often booked up to a year in advance).
• Get a list of menu options from the venue or caterer. It’s also helpful to ask for a list of the venue’s and catering company’s policies. d
• Carefully review your vendors’ contracts and make sure everything fits your needs before signing on the dotted line.
5-6 MONTHS OUT
• Decide on the specifics (menu options, open or cash bar, etc.) and try out the different types of they offer.
• Begin preparing the guest list. For a small event, you may decide to invite only the wedding party. For a larger affair, you’ll also want to consider inviting any out of town guests and extended family members or life-long friends.
• Begin compiling the addresses of all invited guests.
• Select and order invitations.
1 -2 MONTHS OUT
• Address and send out invitations.
• Begin keeping detailed record of responses.
• Choose any special linens, flower arrangements or decorations you’ll be using at the venue.
1 WEEK OUT
• Notify the caterer of your final head count.
• Also inform them of any small children who will be attending (their meals are typically provided free of charge).
• If you’ll be using an assigned seating chart, draw it up.
• Purchase name cards to place at tables for assigned seating.
DAY OF
• Visit the venue during the day to make sure everything is properly set up.
• Relax and enjoy the night!
• After the event, make sure that any personal belongings are removed from the venue If required, clean the area (or recruit family members to help).
• Pay any outstanding balances to the caterer or venue.