This is Only a Test: the Rehearsal and the Rehearsal Dinner

It's time to practice your lines, listening to potentially embarrassing speeches and take a deep breath!

In the past, the rehearsal dinner - being the main event the parents of the groom got to plan was almost as formal an event as the wedding itself! Today however the style of the rehearsal dinner is way more laid back. Couples now are often paying for this event themselves and are requesting a more informal party as a way to relax and not have too many formal events to attend in one weekend.

The result is a great new wave of casual get togethers that allow couples to relax with their loved ones and enjoy the calm before the frantic activity of the big day. Regardless if the rehearsal dinner is in your hands or in the hands of others, it's time to slow down and enjoy yourself. The biggest day of your life is almost here! So read on for some budget saving styles and sanity saving tips.

* Run through the rehearsal at least twice.It's very important that the wedding party knows exactly what to do and when to do it! they need to feel comfortable with what is happening so your ceremony can smoothly the following day.

* Ask your wedding party to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the actual scheduled rehearsal time. This way between late arrivals and chatty people, the rehearsal itself can begin on time.

* Don't buy a new outfit for the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. just wear something you already own, something that you feel fabulous in of course. This is an unnecessary expense.

* Don't hire a photographer or videographer to come to these events. Just ask a friend who is not in the wedding party to take pictures and video for you.

* Keep your guest list small for the rehearsal dinner,but include a few friends and close relatives who weren't asked to be in the wedding. It's a way to make them feel included.

* Consider having the rehearsal dinner a few nights before the wedding rather than the night before - it will give you more time to relax and take care of any last minute tasks before the big day.

* If you decide to stick with tradition and host the rehearsal dinner the night before be very cautious about the amount of drinks you and you're wedding party consume. Hangovers are no way to start your wedding day.

* Choose less expensive menu items for a catered party, such as pasta and chicken dishes. Your guests will get the "good stuff" the following day.

* Ask for a discount on a catered meal at a hotel where you have guests staying or where the wedding reception is taking place. With so much investment from you the manager might be willing to give you a great deal on a dinner package and perhaps throw in some freebies like dessert of use of their pianist.

* If a catered event is not your style consider hosting a laid back pizza party with a variety of pie selections. Take advantage of two for one offers at your favorite delivery place and buy sodas and other beverages from a warehouse store like Sam's or Costco.

* Hold your rehearsal dinner at your home and choose a family style menu like big platters of lasagna, salad and garlic bread. Or order party platters like buffalo wings, sandwiches and salads. These options go over well at informal dinners.

* Choose a unique setting such as a terrace overlooking the ocean or a restaurant's outdoor seating area. In fresh scenery even an informal menu seems more impressive.

Whatever the style, location or menu remember not to confuse the rehearsal dinner with a family dinner. The rehearsal is intended for just the wedding party, your parents and possibly a few others you'd like to invite. Don't think you have to pay for dinner for your entire guest list, after all you're already doing that at the reception, So don't be afraid to tell people that they won't be attending. It's a special time for you and you're wedding party to enjoy one another's company before the main event.