Rehearsal Dinner Etiquette

My MIL lives about 5-10 minutes from us so we were lucky in that we were able to have both mums involved in wedding planning and DIY.
I think you need to discuss her role in things with your FS to make her feel included.

Have your FS talk to your MIL to about this. I think it's a great idea trying to make her feel included (I've been having that issue a bit too), but it's a big thing asking someone to host a dinner for you (I know it's traditionally her job, but still awkward to ask if she hasn't offered) and I think your FS should do the asking.

I was thinking the same. We have a couple out of town guests that we will ask to join us but otherwise it will be limited to the wedding party 25 total.

Ask your MIL if she would like to host the rehearsal dinner and if her time of work doesn't get in the way of planning. I'm sure she would be honoured ro say yes and take some time to come out your way and get some help with the wedding party. They can give her a heads up on her part of costs and ideas.

My dad had payed for all of our family members including huabands side and some 3 wedding party. It was only for those guests staying at the hotel and no one else.

Oh yeah I would for sure ask her to help plan or run the rehearsal or a bridal shower maybe! My MIL I like to keep her involved by showing photos or ideas or plans that I'm working on! Haven't asked any help from her but I'm sure some will come!

We are in BC and my mil is in SK, so I'm kind of in the same boat! I want her to be involved, but we just cant make it happen in the traditional sense! I'm flying her out for dress shopping in August and I have lots of other things for the week before the wedding for her to do, but the rehearsal dinner is something we are taking on for ourselves. I'm getting my mother in law to do all of the place settings for the tables and the centerpieces, as well as help with the bouquets

We are self catering as well, so she is taking on 2 dishes for that as well!!

My MIL is happy being told what to do but lucky she lives 10 minutes from me but on the other hand works shift work nights and days and every 2nd weekend off. She’s helped prep for the shower as she’s told me she’s not a leader she’s a follower. Maybe get her to do some research for you start a Pinterest board if you haven’t already if she’s tech savvy? Ask what she’s like to do? One of my brides maids is over 3 hours away and she’s really involved. My other one lives in California and she does research for me too and gives me her opinion that way. Not sure if that helps any?