My future mother-in-law tells me that EVERY out of town guest has to be at the rehearsal dinner. She tells me that this is tradition to do this. I don't want that. My feeling is that this is supose to be a small gathering for the bridal party and immediate family and that this is a chance for you to more personally thank everyone involved in making your special day even more special for you and your fiance. I have tried to explain to her that the only out of town people I want there are immediate family (aunts, uncles, cousins) even if they aren't in the wedding. I was going to extend an invitation to the rest of the out of towners to join us for cocktails after the dinner which I think is pretty nice. Please someone tell me that I'm not being unreasonable. I just don't want 100 people at the rehearsal dinner! If that's the case then why is my dad spending $$$ on a reception the next day.