It's the gateway to the wedding, the acknowledgement of family and friends who have traveled great distances to celebrate a marriage, for many it's the first opportunity for two families to become acquainted, and the moment when the groom's mom and dad take center stage. Though not on a par with the actual wedding, the rehearsal dinner is still a big deal. Here are five tips for planning a memorable rehearsal dinner:

1) Choose a rehearsal dinner style and menu that's different from the wedding. If the wedding is an elegant, formal affair, plan a barbecue. If you live near an ocean, how about a clambake? A pool party? An italian theme is always fun--pizza and chianti! And everyone loves a Mexican fiesta! Or a casino party! As you've already guessed, the rehearsal dinner doesn't have to be a formal affair. In fact, a casual atmosphere makes it more fun and conducive to mingling.

2) Choose a location that's convenient for out-of-town guests, or make sure there's ample transportation available to and from your event.


3) Plan some activities. A video or a slide show of the happy couple is always a crowd- pleaser. If you have a barbecue or a beachside dinner, consider a volleyball game. If you have a casino-themed party, have poker and other gaming tables available.

4) Arrange your seating with conversation in mind. Your goal is to promote conversation so everyone can get to know one another. Round tables serve that purpose better than long, rectangular ones.

5) Go one step beyond with favors. While there are few favors specifically designed for a rehearsal dinner, many clever and unique wedding favors will work perfectly. One wedding favor that works beautifully for any style of rehearsal dinner is the "Miles of Memories" Personalized Suitcase Favor Tin. It's a cute and clever (check out the wheels and the collapsible handle!) tip-of-the-hat to your guests who have come long distances, and you can personalize it with the happy couple's names and the date of your rehearsal dinner.
If you opt for a more formal, seated dinner, the L-O-V-E votive candles are just what you're looking for! The unusual square shape and the elegant black-and-silver L-O-V-E plate that reminds everyone why they're there make this a favorite.

Why should the bride's mom have all the fun? The rehearsal dinner is a wonderful tradition designed to give the bride, groom and everyone else a chance to relax, bring families together and enjoy time with the couple before they leave on their honeymoon. And as the groom's mom--and dad--you should make the most of it. Throw a party that will be fun for you!