Welcome Party, Rehearsal Dinner, or Both? How to Decide
MLE’s Guide on Welcome Parties and Rehearsal Dinners
Planning a destination wedding often means hosting more than just the wedding day itself. Couples want to maximize time with loved ones, and that usually includes a rehearsal dinner, a welcome party, or sometimes both. But which option is right for you?
Why These Events Matter
Your wedding weekend is more than one day. Pre-wedding gatherings create space for connection, ease nerves, and let your guests feel included. Choosing the right format ensures the celebration starts on the perfect note.
What Is a Rehearsal Dinner?
Tradition: Held after the ceremony rehearsal, typically the night before the wedding.
Guest List: Usually immediate family, the wedding party, and officiant.
Tone: More intimate, structured, and often includes toasts or speeches.
Best For: Couples who value tradition and want focused time with their inner circle.
What Is a Welcome Party?
Tradition: Hosted the evening before the wedding to greet all out-of-town guests.
Guest List: Open to everyone invited to the wedding.
Tone: Casual, celebratory, and flexible in format (cocktail-style, food trucks, live music).
Best For: Destination weddings where most guests are traveling and you want to maximize mingling time.
Should You Host Both?
Yes if: You want to honor tradition and give all guests a chance to celebrate early. Many couples choose a small rehearsal dinner followed by a larger welcome party.
No if: Budget or logistics make multiple events stressful. Choose one format that matches your priorities.
Compromise: Consider combining them — start with a rehearsal dinner, then invite additional guests to join for dessert, drinks, or entertainment.
💡 Pro Tip: If you host both, make sure they feel distinct. Keep the rehearsal dinner intimate and structured, while the welcome party should be lively and inclusive.
Budget and Logistics to Keep in Mind
Venues: Book different spaces so each event feels unique.
Food and Drink: A rehearsal dinner might be plated, while a welcome party works well with stations or passed apps.
Timing: Avoid running late the night before your wedding. Guests (and you) will appreciate a reasonable end time.
Final Thoughts
At Michelle Leo Events, we help couples plan wedding weekends that feel cohesive, intentional, and stress-free. Whether you choose a rehearsal dinner, a welcome party, or both, we’ll guide you toward the format that best fits your vision, your budget, and your guest experience.
If you’re also thinking about multi-day wedding weekends, check out our post on How to Plan a Multi-Day Destination Wedding for more tips. Wondering who you need to invite to these different events? Don’t miss our guide on Who You Should Invite to Your Wedding Weekend Festivities.
