Top 10 Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Themes and Ideas to Inspire Your Night Before
Looking for the best wedding rehearsal dinner ideas? Choosing a rehearsal dinner theme makes planning easier, saves you money on decor, and creates a fun and memorable night before your wedding. In this guide, we’ll share the top 10 wedding rehearsal dinner themes we’ve seen couples love, from casual backyard BBQs to tropical glam soirées. You’ll also learn how to choose a theme that complements your wedding without overshadowing the big day.
Photo credit: Carter Rose Photography from this fiesta themed rehearsal dinner.
Don't get stressed - get Let's Get Rehearsed’s FREE rehearsal dinner guide packed full of everything you need to plan a welcome party, from saving money to celebrating the night before the big day!
How to Choose the Right Theme for Your Rehearsal Dinner
The best rehearsal dinner theme reflects your location, budget, guest list size, and personality. A coastal venue may call for seafood, a backyard might be perfect for BBQ, and a small group allows for intimate themes while larger guest lists work best with casual, crowd-pleasing options. Most importantly, choose a theme that feels like you as a couple so the night before your wedding is fun, relaxed, and memorable.
Let Your Location Inspire You
If you’re finding it difficult to choose a rehearsal dinner theme, take a look at your location. Both your geographical location and your wedding rehearsal dinner venue can help lend a hand toward selecting a rehearsal dinner theme.
Think about locations like mountainside in Colorado or beachside in Puerto Rico as a step towards a coordinating theme. Alternatively, your rehearsal dinner venue might also have a unique feature that helps with theming like a speak-easy bar or a jazzed up bowling alley!
For inspiration, be sure to check out our gallery of real wedding rehearsal dinners, including this Amalfi Coast-inspired rehearsal in South Carolina, or this baseball-themed rehearsal at an MLB park in Washington, D.C., or this outdoor oyster bake rehearsal on the beach, or this colorful fiesta themed rehearsal in Texas.
Keep It Casual
Did we mention to do your best to not to outdo the wedding with the rehearsal or pre-wedding celebrations? Be sure to read our advice on what to do about it if you’re worried about overshadowing the wedding with the rehearsal.
It can be tempting to go big with the rehearsal, especially if you aren’t the one paying for the wedding. It’s normal to really want to go “all out” for the rehearsal. Just remember to be mindful of the wedding the next day.
Since weddings tend to be more formal affairs, the rehearsal is a great time to have a casual, laid-back party. We’re hearing from more and more couples who are opting for a more chill vibe for the rehearsal. And their guests are loving it too!
Whether you choose a pizza party rehearsal theme, a backyard BBQ rehearsal, a fun and games atmosphere, or a cozy rustic campfire aesthetic, remember that relaxed and not stressed is the way to go into a wedding weekend. (Plus, it’s one less outfit that your guests need to worry about packing!)
Picking a casual theme for a rehearsal dinner is popular not only because it is the counterpoint to the wedding. Casual is also a great choice because the rehearsal pre-wedding is often a time of great stress and anxiety.
A big event is about the happen the next day and anything that you can do to lighten the mood, even if that’s with a chill casual rehearsal theme, will be much appreciated by all, including the couple!
Connection Is The Goal
Our last bit of advice on picking a casual theme for your rehearsal is to keep in mind that at a rehearsal and a wedding welcome party, is about getting together for the big day. This means that friends and family - who likely haven’t seen each other in a while - will be connecting and reconnecting.
The rehearsal is a chance for friends and family to catch up and and spend some time together before the hustle and bustle of the wedding, which will be all about the couple.
An overly formal setting for the rehearsal where people can’t mix and mingle, or a loud band for the welcome where no one can hear is counterproductive.
The goal of any rehearsal or welcome party is to provide a comfortable and relaxed environment where old and new friends and family can connect.
With a well-intentioned theme on rehearsal, you can take some of the pressure off of the big wedding day to follow. It sounds relaxing already!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Picking a Theme
A common mistake when planning a wedding rehearsal dinner is making it feel too much like the wedding itself. The rehearsal should complement the big day, not compete with it, so avoid duplicating the same theme or formality level.
Another misstep is going overly formal. Weddings already carry that weight, so keep the rehearsal more casual and relaxed with themes like BBQ, pizza, or a backyard picnic. This gives guests room to mingle and connect, which is the true purpose of the night before. The best rehearsal dinner themes coordinate with the wedding without copying it and create a warm, easygoing atmosphere.
Budget-Friendly Theme Tips
One of the biggest perks of choosing a wedding rehearsal dinner theme is that it actually makes planning easier and more affordable. Once you have a theme in mind, you can stick to just a few key details that tie everything together instead of feeling like you need to decorate every corner of the space.
If you’re working with a tighter budget, focus on affordable touches like themed invitations, signs, or simple table accents. You can DIY many of these or grab printable downloads that you can customize and print at home. Our Let’s Get Rehearsed shop has rehearsal dinner invitations, seating charts, and decor collections that make it easy to get a coordinated look without spending a fortune.
For larger items or unique details, Etsy is a great place to find budget-friendly pieces that still feel special and personalized. The key is to let your theme guide your decisions, so you only purchase what truly enhances the look instead of overspending on extras.
Top 10 Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Themes
1. Rustic Chic Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
There’s something about a rehearsal dinner with a bit of rustic charm! For rustic chic rehearsal dinners you don’t necessarily need the venue to be a barn. Just choose the right decor and accents to contribute to the rustic feel.
Think barnwood signs, rustic wood accents, and bamboo dinner plates for this theme. (Don’t miss this Rustic Barn Wedding Rehearsal Dinner in New York for some serious inspo!)
Here are a few of our favorite rustic chic rehearsal dinner decor pieces…
Shop this rehearsal dinner decor:
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Shop this rustic rehearsal dinner invitation:
Shop this rustic rehearsal dinner decor:
2. Pizza Themed Wedding Rehearsal Dinner
Who doesn’t love pizza!? A pizza party invokes a certain laid-back, casual yet fun vibe without having to say a word, which is exactly the mood you’re trying to create the night before the wedding.
You can even go ironic with a pizza theme! You can dress it up and host a formal rehearsal dinner with a pizza menu, but we also love a good casual gathering like this Casual Pizza Party Wedding Rehearsal Dinner in DC.
Plus - don’t miss our ’Amore! Collection’ of pizza themed wedding rehearsal dinner printable invitations, signs, seating charts, and more in our wedding rehearsal download shop!
We have all the ideas you’ll need for a fun pizza-themed wedding rehearsal dinner…
This theme is such a fun one that we wrote a collection of ideas for your own pizza-themed rehearsal dinner.
3. Coastal Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
There’s nothing more calming than water! If you’re hosting a rehearsal dinner seaside, on the beach, or near the water, you may want to consider a coastal theme for the evening. You’ll love this Coastal Chic Wedding Rehearsal Dinner on Martha’s Vineyard for a bit of inspiration!
For a coastal or nautical-inspired rehearsal dinner consider a seafood-inspired menu, sea stripes and sails for decor, and all shades of blue.
If you’re really embracing the coastal theme consider a meal that follows along with the theme like this Outdoor Oyster Bake Wedding Rehearsal Dinner in South Carolina.
Check out some of our coastal themed rehearsal dinner ideas…
4. BBQ Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
Come with an empty stomach to a BBQ rehearsal! Whether your rehearsal dinner is hosted indoors or out, guests always love a good BBQ meal! From a formal barbecue, meal served in a luxury restaurant to an easy-does-it backyard BBQ, a barbecue-themed rehearsal works for parties large and small. A BBQ menu feeds a crowd and the vibe instantly invokes a casual atmosphere, which is the goal of any successful rehearsal celebration.
Plus, we love that barbeque, BBQ or bar-be-que is very local and regional as each area and location takes great pride in their meat-inspired menus. Choosing a BBQ theme is a great nod to your rehearsal’s location too!
This rehearsal dinner theme is so popular because there’s so much you can do with it! Don’t miss even more BBQ theme rehearsal ideas. Oh and if you’re planning a be sure to get our advice on how to plan a rehearsal dinner at home.
Don’t miss our top picks for BBQ themed rehearsal dinner decor and accents…
Let’s kick off the wedding weekend with a BBQ themed wedding rehearsal dinner.
photo by: Rubia and Lib
5. Floral Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
Love is in bloom! When in doubt, flowers are always a beautiful theme choice - and this also goes for rehearsal dinners! There’s something both magical and romantic about a floral design from the rehearsal dinner invitations to the tabletop decor.
We showcased a Chic Floral Themed Wedding Rehearsal Dinner in Steamboat, Colorado you won’t want to miss!
Incorporating floral accents into your rehearsal dinner is super easy with floral designed welcome signs and actual fresh flowers to use throughout the venue. Flowers are a great way to infuse color and invoke a fresh and happy vibe - and who doesn’t want that the night before the wedding?!
BTW if you’re going to DIY your rehearsal flowers, be sure to check out our friends at Bloomsbythebox.com for wholesale fresh cut flowers.
Oh, and just because this theme revolves around flowers doesn’t mean you’re limited to using it for spring rehearsal dinners. Rehearsal dinners hosted in any season can incorporate fresh flowers and floral designs for a chic rehearsal dinner theme.
Here are a few of our top floral picks for a flower themed rehearsal….
6. Sports-Themed Wedding Rehearsal Dinner
Game on! When choosing a rehearsal theme, it’s also smart to consider the couple’s passions. Often, one or both of the soon-to-be newlyweds are sports fans whether it be a specific sport or even a specific team that they love to follow.
Choosing a sports theme for the rehearsal can be a nod to the location or the couple’s favorite team. You can go with the team’s colors for your color palette, and personalize the little details that will make the event memorable.
From football to baseball, no matter which sport you choose, there are fun options to link your wedding rehearsal dinner to your favorite pastime. We featured a fun Baseball Themed Wedding Rehearsal Dinner at MLB’s Nationals Park in DC. We also loved this Game-Day-Before-The-Big-Day Theme Wedding Welcome Party In The Mountains.
Check out some of our favorite sports theme rehearsal dinner ideas…
7. Fiesta-Themed Wedding Rehearsal Dinner
Let’s party! A rehearsal dinner theme that is always filled with fun…fiesta! With bright colors and traditional designs, fiesta themed rehearsal dinners offer a fun kick off to the wedding weekend. This theme directly lends itself to a fun party atmosphere, which is exactly the tone you’re trying to set for the night before the big day!
We’ve even featured a Fiesta-Themed Wedding Rehearsal Dinner with Donkeys that you will not want to miss if you’re hoping to infuse that party vibe into your rehearsal.
From invitations to cocktail napkins and even seating place cards, it’s easy to find fiesta themed wedding rehearsal dinner items and decor online! The best part of a fiesta theme is that it is what you make of it, the sky is truly the limit and you can let those bright pops of color shine.
Here are our favorite ways to bring on the part with a fiesta-themed rehearsal…
8. Boho Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
Chill out! If relaxed and no stress is the mood you’re trying to create before the wedding, there’s no better way than with a boho, whimsical free spirit theme.
Your wedding is the main event of the weekend so let your rehearsal dinner be a little more laid back, yet still beautiful with a bohemian aesthetic. Think of bringing the outdoors in with a natural, fresh, and organic atmosphere. A boho vibe instantly invokes feelings of calm and comfort, which is exactly what you’re going for during this time of connection before the wedding day.
For a whimsical bohemian rehearsal dinner theme, we see a lot of terracotta decor, invitations with soft-flowing fonts, and wildflowers as centerpieces. For a bohemian feel consider muted colors and earthy tones plus a variety of textures.
A sophisticated yet relaxed boho rehearsal dinner theme also lends itself to a beautiful lace dress for the bride!
Here are a few of our favorite bohemian-themed rehearsal dinner ideas you don’t want to miss…
9. Tropical Glam Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
Get out your tiny drink umbrellas and sunglasses! Whether you’re hosting your rehearsal dinner close to the equator or not, a tropical theme is fun for all! From fresh fruits to tropical-inspired florals to shades of green and white with bright (and we mean bright!) pops of color, the food and decor choices are just plain fun.
Everyone loves to sip on a tropical drink, so make it great with your rehearsal dinner theme. The signature cocktails with a tropical glam rehearsal are endless!
We’re also thinking about palm leaves, raw wood tones, and chic raffia textures for tropical rehearsal dinner decor. Invitations, signs and seating charts are available in beautiful tropical floral designs, too!
For more tropical glam vibes, don’t miss this Tropical Glam Wedding Rehearsal Dinner in Palm Beach, Florida.
If you’re thinking about embracing the tropics, but making it glam for your rehearsal, check out some of our favorite ideas…
10. Backyard Picnic Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme
Welcome home! Last but not least we have the oh-so-popular backyard picnic rehearsal dinner. From daytime to a brisk night under the stars, a backyard picnic rehearsal dinner theme is a great option for an at-home rehearsal dinner.
Break out the picnic tables, checked tablecloths, and picnic baskets for a backyard-themed rehearsal. Chic cafe string lighting can help set a cozy and comfortable ambiance, and your food options are endless - although we suggest a comfort food menu with bonus points for including family recipes!
A backyard picnic rehearsal dinner theme allows for so much customization and personalization. Be sure to get our pro tips for planning a rehearsal dinner at home. There are a few things you need to know before going all in at home.
Your backyard is perfect for smaller rehearsal dinner soirées or intimate gatherings. Anything at home is instantly more meaningful and special!
Here are our top ways to infuse a backyard picnic theme into your rehearsal…
Don't get stressed - get Let's Get Rehearsed’s FREE rehearsal dinner guide packed full of everything you need to plan a welcome party, from saving money to celebrating the night before the big day!
When it comes to planning your wedding rehearsal dinner, choosing a theme is one of the easiest ways to make the night before fun, memorable, and stress-free. Whether you go casual with a pizza party, chic with coastal vibes, or festive with a fiesta theme, your rehearsal dinner theme will set the tone for the wedding weekend. Use these top 10 wedding rehearsal dinner ideas as inspiration, and remember the goal is connection, relaxation, and celebration.
Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Theme FAQs
What are some popular wedding rehearsal dinner themes?
Popular rehearsal dinner themes include rustic chic, BBQ, pizza, coastal, tropical, boho, fiesta, floral, sports-inspired, and backyard picnic.
How do I choose a rehearsal dinner theme?
Start with your location, guest list size, and budget. Pick something that complements your wedding but feels more casual and fun.
Can the rehearsal dinner theme be different from the wedding theme?
Yes, and it should be. The rehearsal dinner is best when it contrasts the wedding, keeping the vibe relaxed while still festive.
Do I need to spend a lot on themed decor?
Not at all. Choosing a theme actually makes planning easier because you can use simple, cohesive details like invitations, signs, and flowers that tie the look together.
More Rehearsal Dinner Planning Resources
If you’re planning a rehearsal dinner, don’t miss some of these must-read resources:
How To Make Your Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Different From Your Wedding
Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Outfit Accessories For The Bride-To-Be
Stunning Dresses To Wear At Your Rehearsal Dinner When You’re The Bride
About Let’s Get Rehearsed!
Welcome to stress-free and easy wedding rehearsal dinner planning and ideas! Let’s Get Rehearsed is the best, most helpful planning and inspiration resource for all things wedding rehearsal dinners, wedding welcome parties, and the night before the wedding celebrations. If you’re in rehearsal dinner planning mode or looking for unique ideas, check out our real rehearsal dinner and welcome party photos, rehearsal dinner ideas and inspiration, advice for planning a wedding rehearsal dinner, and a rehearsal dinner printable and download shop.
Don’t forget to visit the Let’s Get Rehearsed Shop where you can find fun and affordable wedding rehearsal dinner invitations, wedding welcome party signs, printables, digital downloads and more.
Let’s Get Rehearsed is all about getting you rehearsed before the wedding, so you can get to the celebration!