While there may be some “rehearsing” at the beginning, a rehearsal dinner is primarily a social get-together, where friends and family calm any pre-wedding jitters over a celebratory dinner. The rehearsal dinner isn’t as fancy as the actual wedding day and guests are often conflicted about the appropriate rehearsal dress attire for this special occasion. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or dinner at a restaurant, what are you supposed to wear? Teri Jon’s Rehearsal Dinner blog, will guide you through the process, ensuring that you find the ideal dress for the special occasion.

If the dinner is at a nice restaurant, opt for a cocktail dress for the perfect blend of refined and relaxed. You can either go safe with a classy LBD or add a splash of color to the party with an eye-catching, colorful dress. If the venue is more informal, say a picnic or barbecue, go casual in a daytime dress. In this case, feel free to wear flats for the get-together.

Before you wine and dine, here are a few reminders: Whether it’s a formal or informal event, bring comfortable shoes for the rehearsal portion. You will be doing a lot of walking and standing during this time slot and heels may cause some unwanted blisters. Don’t wear the same color that you’re planning on wearing to the wedding or you’ll be dubbed the “Green Dress Lady.” And, if the rehearsal dinner is outside, you should bring a bolero or light jacket in case it gets cold.

If the wedding is the climax, let the rehearsal dinner be the sneak peak into what is yet to come. So enjoy the celebration and check out the Teri Jon collection exclusively designed for rehearsal dinners!