It’s the night before the big day, and you are a bundle of nerves. You are worried it will rain. You are worried that Aunt Gertrude will pick a fight with Aunt Betty. Instead of worrying about things that can go wrong, why not concentrate on something more positive like celebrating your impending nuptials with family and friends at a rehearsal dinner? You can relax and keep your mind free of worries.

A rehearsal dinner is usually held the night before the wedding. Guests should include both sets of parents, grandparents, siblings and all members of the wedding party. It’s up to you – and your budget –whether you want to invite out-of-town guests or people you don’t see that often. It may be a good idea since it will give you more time to chat with them than during the wedding reception.

You don’t want any unnecessary stress the night before your wedding, so choose a place that’s relaxed and casual. A small restaurant that you can take over for the evening would be perfect, or a private dining room in a hotel or restaurant is another option. A catered dinner in someone’s home or a picnic in a park (weather permitting) are also good choices.

Your dinner host is responsible for taking care of the invitations. They should be sent out after the wedding invitations are mailed to give guests enough time to make proper lodging and transportation arrangements. The invitations can be formally engraved, printed from a computer or handwritten on fill-in-the-blank cards. Include directions and parking information. Ask people to RSVP so you can give the venue a proper head count.

Most guests will want to rest up for your big day, so don’t be surprised if some make an early exit. If you and a few of your guests aren’t ready to turn in just yet, you might suggest that guests gather in someone’s hotel room or at a nearby bar. Just don’t make it too late an evening or you’ll wake up to puffy, baggy eyes. How will all those photos look?