Who Pays for a Rehearsal Dinner?
Traditionally, the groom's family (specifically the groom's mother) plans and pays for the rehearsal dinner. This is a sign of appreciation for the bride's family, who traditionally handle planning for (and paying for) their daughter's wedding. Today, however, it's common to share costs and responsibilities for the rehearsal dinner and wedding alike.Destination Wedding Rehearsal Dinners
If yours is to be a destination wedding to an obscure corner of this breathtaking state, be sure to check with your location coordinator if you would like to include a rehearsal dinner. Most have on-staff kitchens and chefs ready to put together a memorable meal for your guests. You might also consider coordinating your rehearsal dinner with some of your other planned activities, such as fishing trips or hunting expeditions. Nothing beats fresh seafood, and the waters around Alaska are home to some of the world's tastiest fish, such as halibut and king crab.It is of course polite to invite any of your destination wedding guests to your rehearsal dinner, if economically practical. Rest assured that even if your rehearsal dinner needs to be an intimate evening, your other friends and family will find plenty of rugged beauty to explore, and plenty of fine local restaurants at which to dine.
Finding an Alaska Rehearsal Dinner Location
If your wedding location does not offer facilities for a rehearsal dinner, there are many areas of the state which you might look to for the proper accommodations. You will undoubtedly have the best luck in and around larger cities like Anchorage and Juneau, but nearly every town of size in the state has a nice local restaurant which may be able to accommodate your party.Common Questions for Rehearsals
Consider your rehearsal dinner location -- is it within walking distance of where you will be staying? Call well in advance to reserve your date, and be sure they can accommodate a group of your size. If in doubt, ask for references. A simple online search for 'Alaska town name' fine dining, or 'Alaska town name' restaurant will return useful results as a starting point, but also consider these renowned restaurants across the Last Frontier State.Anchorage Rehearsal Dinner Spots
Known as "The Great Alaska Dinnerhouse," Simon and Seafort's has been serving up spectacular views and honest, great-tasting cuisine based on bold local Alaskan flavors. It's classic American "surf n' turf" meets Alaska! An extensive wine and cocktail list offers options to fit any tasting course or menu. They have facilities for up to 20 of your closest friends available with advance notice.The Anchorage Museum offers rich topics of conversation for you and your guests during your rehearsal. Catering is provided courtesy of The Marx Bros. Cafe, the Museum's exclusive caterer, considered one of the best restaurants in Anchorage. The museum features "Art of the North" as well as many spotlights on local culture and Alaska history. A great spot for receptions, too!
Sacks Cafe is a well-known Anchorage staple, providing some of the city's best eclectic American cuisine. This award-winning restaurant offers catering options, in addition to reservations for smaller groups.
Where to Go for a Juneau Rehearsal
If Asian-inspired cuisine suits your palate, try Zen Restaurant. It may be the perfect spot for a Juneau Rehearsal dinner. Their fusion-inspired culinary style blends traditional Asian flavors with the finest local ingredients, resulting in tasty specialties like Ginger Halibut and Shang-Hai Prawns. Call (907) 586-5075 for availability.Recommended in Juneau and beyond, Westmark Hotels offer sumptuous meals in one of Juneau's most lavish hotels, the Baranof. Come create a memorable rehearsal at their famous Gold Room Restaurant. Also with locations in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Skagway, Sitka, Tok, Beaver Creek, Dawson City and White Horse.
For outstanding views, consider a visit to the Timberline Bar & Grill, located at the top of the Mount Roberts Tramway. A great atmosphere and solid cuisine make this a memorable rehearsal destination. If you're feeling adventurous and want to work up an appetite, you can even hike to the top!
Amazingly, Juneau has only one waterfront restaurant -- and a great one it is! The Hangar on the Wharf features the area's largest selection of microbrews, in addition to fresh seafood and a friendly atmosphere. Waterfront views up the channel toward Mount Roberts and Mount Jumbo round out this lively dining spot.