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A: It has become custom, but not obligatory, for the groom's family to host the rehearsal party. If they do so, they may elicit the help of the bride or her mother in selecting a location.
If the groom's family does not or cannot give the rehearsal dinner, one may be arranged by the bride's family. It may take the form of a picnic, a simple buffet, or a formal dinner – however, it should never be more formal than the wedding reception.
Here are some guidelines to consider when compiling a guest list for the rehearsal dinner:
*The guest list at a rehearsal party should include the members of the wedding party, the officiant, parents and grandparents of the bride and groom, and any siblings of the bride and groom who are not in the wedding party. If the bride and/or groom have stepparents, they are invited with their spouses if they have remarried. The wedding party's husbands, wives, fiancées, fiancés, and live-in companions should be invited, but dates are not included. Any children of the bride and groom from a previous marriage also attend, unless they are too young. The flower girl and ring bearer may be included, unless the hour or formality makes it too difficult for them to attend.
*Invitations are generally written on informal or fill-in cards or may simply be handwritten or telephoned. If a good number of out-of-town guests are being invited, the written invitation is the best way to go; it serves as a tangible reminder of the time, date, and address of the party. Send out invitations three to six weeks in advance.
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