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The days of stuffy sit-down rehearsal dinners the night before a wedding are over. Today couples are getting revved up for the big day with a rehearsal dinner in backyards, bowling alleys, and on beaches. Most of these standout rehearsal dinner ideas can take place at home or in a restaurant, and each of them is sure to please everyone from Grandma to your grad school roomie.

1. BBQ Bash

Especially if the wedding is superformal, relax at the rehearsal dinner. What better way to introduce two families than over burgers, dogs, and Aunt Jessica's famous baked beans? Picnic tables allow everyone to interact casually as they pass food cooked up by the dads bonding over grill duty. Get potlucky by asking each member of the bridal party to bring a favorite dessert. Decorate tables with wildflowers in galvanized tin pails and jars of homemade jam laid out on red-and-white checkered tablecloths. For favors, give out BBQ sauce, "Kiss the Chef" aprons, or personalized ketchup bottles.

Knot note: Avoid unwelcome guests with anti-mosquito candles.

2. The Orient Express

Think fusion: Have a Chinese restaurant cater dinner, hire a sushi chef to make rolls, and serve mini-pad thais as an appetizer. From colorful paper lanterns and parasols to ornate origami, festive decor is just one trip to Chinatown (or a visit to an online supplier) away. For centerpieces, try exotic and fragrant orchids, colorful lotus blossoms or just fanciful origami creations. Fried bananas or mango ice cream bring a sweet finale to your gathering. Consider ornate fans or personalized fortune cookies as favors.

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