Rehearsal dinner toast: what to say and who gives one
By the speechwriters.ai editorial team · Last updated
Who usually toasts at a rehearsal dinner, what to say, and short examples for hosts, parents, the wedding party and the couple.
Who toasts at the rehearsal dinner?
Tradition says the groom's parents host the rehearsal dinner, so one of them welcomes everyone first. After that it's looser than the reception: the best man and maid of honor sometimes speak, siblings and old friends often do, and many couples end the night by thanking everyone.
A simple shape for any rehearsal dinner toast
- Who you are and how you know the couple.
- One story, which can be more personal or more "inside" than you'd tell at the reception, since the room is smaller.
- A wish for tomorrow, and a toast.
Short examples
Host (groom's parent): "Thank you all for traveling so far. Tomorrow is the formal part. Tonight is just about the people who made Chris and Emma who they are, and that's every one of you. To tomorrow."
Sibling: "I've been Emma's little sister for twenty-six years, which means I've been borrowing her clothes for twenty-five. Chris, she's yours now, but I'm keeping the denim jacket."
The couple: "We wanted to say thank you tonight, while we can still form sentences. Tomorrow will go fast. Tonight, look around: these are our favorite people."
Tips
- Keep it short. Several people often speak, and the night runs long.
- Don't steal the best man's or maid of honor's material for tomorrow.
- Embarrassing is fine in moderation; cruel never is.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for and hosts the rehearsal dinner?
Traditionally the groom's family, though today the couple or both families often share it. The host usually gives the first toast.
How long should a rehearsal dinner toast be?
One to three minutes. With several speakers, short toasts keep the evening moving.
Should the couple give a toast at the rehearsal dinner?
Many do. A short thank-you from the couple is a lovely way to end the night.
Can the best man speak at both?
Yes. Use the rehearsal dinner for the longer, more personal stories and keep the reception toast tight.
Related guides
- Maid of honor speech: how to write it, with sample lines
- Best man speech: a structure that works, with examples
- Father of the bride speech: structure and sample lines
- Mother of the bride speech: ideas, structure and examples
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