Jill Duggar's Rehearsal Dinner

Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard

Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard spent yesterday evening with family and close friends at their rehearsal dinner, in preparation for their wedding this afternoon. The couple is expecting more than 2,000 guests.

Jim Bob Duggar admitted that his emotions have been strong. "I've been crying half the day, so I'm making jokes to keep from crying," he told guests at the rehearsal dinner.

Derick's mom, Cathy, is battling cancer and was unable to attend the rehearsal.

"I want to ask everyone to pray for my mom," Dillard told PEOPLE. "Anyone who has been through [cancer] knows what it is like, and if everyone could think of her, I know she would really appreciate it."

Derick is hoping that his mom and step-dad, Ronnie, will be able to attend the wedding today. 

Derick Dillard and Jill Duggar

"I would like to speak for our mother and father and say we're very proud of you, Derick, and know you will continue to make us proud," Daniel, Derick's younger brother and best man, told the crowd at the rehearsal dinner. Derick's father, Rick, a former police officer, passed away in 2008.

For dinner, guests enjoyed brisket, chicken legs, baked beans, hash brown casserole, deviled eggs, and ice cream sundaes. Jill and Derick listened to family and friends share memories and marriage advice.

The Duggar kids also put together a hilarious movie reenactment of the couple's engagement.

Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard

"We're really, really excited," Jill told PEOPLE. "My sisters have done a great job, and my wedding team of volunteers has gotten most of the wedding planning done ahead of time."

Derick said he been assuring his bride-to-be that everything will work out.

Read more at PEOPLE.com.

Jill Duggar's Rehearsal DinnerJill Duggar's Rehearsal Dinner