Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. (Note: Questions may be edited for clarity and brevity.)
Question: My friend’s brothers are the ushers in an upcoming family wedding. She recently told me the ushers are invited to the rehearsal, wedding ceremony and reception, but not to the rehearsal dinner. We both thought ushers were supposed to be invited all of the above. Who is invited to the rehearsal dinner?
Answer: Traditionally, the guests at the rehearsal dinner are the close friends and family of the couple getting married, as well as everyone participating in the wedding. So, that would mean, the bridesmaids, groomsman, ushers, flower girls and ring bearers, as well as the officiant and their spouse. This is the case no matter who is footing the bill. If the dinner has a tight budget, rather than exclude someone in the above list, it’s better to do something simple, such as a cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres, in lieu of a sit down dinner or buffet. Often, out-of-town guests will also be included in the rehearsal dinner, so this should be taken into consideration when creating the guest list.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Respond in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.com.
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