There are other smaller events that come with planning ‘the big one’ and they’re great ways for your bridal party and families to get to know one another. We know that planning a wedding is a huge task but here are some get-togethers that your friends and family can host leading up to the wedding day!
Engagement Party –
a party thrown to celebrate a couple’s recent engagement and to help future wedding guests to get to know one another. Traditionally, the bride’s parents host the engagement party, but many modern couples host their own celebration. It’s a chance to toast (or roast) the newly engaged couple!
You might remember this funny scene from Tom & Violet’s engagement party in the movie, Five Year Engagement.

five_year_engagement

Wedding Shower –
this shower is thrown as a gift-giving party held for a bride and groom to be in anticipation of their wedding. While the bridal shower is typically held for all female guests, the wedding shower is becoming more popular to include male guests, the bachelor and bachelorette parties allow for the females and males to celebrate on their own

If you’re looking to host a co-ed shower, here’s how you might word the invitation.

Screen Shot 2014-02-06 at 10.02.32 AM[Source: Etsy]

Rehearsal Dinner –
a dinner usually held after the wedding rehearsal and the night before the wedding ceremony. In addition to the bride and groom the guests generally include others who form the wedding party, but may also include extended family and out-of-town guests.
We love the casual feel of a family style rehearsal dinner, it’s an awesome and effortless way to get your families and friends mingling!

db847187e89071e5bd88f3ecff66554a[Source: Every Last Detail]

Remember, there are no set rules in throwing these pre-wedding celebrations. It’s your wedding! Feel free to add elements that make it yours and your fiancé’s!