Rehearsal Dinner
Kick off your weekend of celebrating with a super fun rehearsal dinner. Whatever your vibe, budget, or guest count, there are always ways to jazz up the evening before your big day and make it super fun as well. We have helped coordinate so many welcome/rehearsal dinners, so we decided to compile a list of our favorites so you can get years of experience and ideas in a five-minute read. Ready, set, GO!
A classic backyard feel
One spot we really love in Durango is James Ranch. They are a farm-to-table restaurant with humanely raised beef, freshly baked buns, and homegrown veggies. You can have a burger bar on their lawn so your guests can choose their dinner and eat with a stunning view. There is plenty of room for kids to run around and get their energy out. Check out this blog for more info on past James Ranch rehearsal dinners!
Vendors:
Venue: @jamesranch
Music: @devinscottukulele
Coordinator: @the.perfect.day.co
A Restaurant Warm Welcome
If you want an easy peasy welcome dinner, try booking out a restaurant. Most restaurants will allow you to book their space for a food and drink minimum, which usually ends up costing less than renting all of the things to have the dinner at a bare-bones venue or home. This means you get tables, chairs, tablecloths, plates, silverware, glasses, servers, dishwashers, and someone to take out the trash and clean up. Some we have worked with are Eso Terra Ciderworks, Carver Brewing, 11th Street Station, and The Nugget Bar.
Photographers: Abbi Pittman Photos at Eso Terra and Ginger Moose Photography at Carver Brewing.
All in one place
This couple booked The Black Diamond Lodge for the whole weekend, so they had the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception dinner, and lodging for their guests all at the same place. They were able to use the Lodge’s tables, chairs, silverware, and kitchen to make the planning a little easier.
Who doesn’t love a good margarita and some queso? This rehearsal dinner was so much fun, and we definitely loved the bright colors, music, and delicious food.
Vendors:
Photography: @coltandhannah
Venue: @theblackdiamondlodge
Coordination: @durangoeventplanners
Music: @robwebstermusic
Catering: @ziataqueria
Linens: @dedicatedlinenco
Bar: @thethirstyrooster
Other Options
Host it at your (or your parent’s) home
This will give touches of nostalgia and comfort to your dinner. However, keep in mind that you will have to rent/buy tables, chairs, linens, plates, and silverware. You can cater food, have your family make it, or make it potluck style and have everyone bring something. Just make sure your family is up for hosting a dinner the night before your big day. You want this time to be enjoyable and not stressful.
Rent a food truck
If you do want to host it at a venue that doesn’t offer food, a food truck is always a fun and easy option to get quality and quantity without having to cook it all yourself.
Pizza Party
Everyone loves pizza! Keep it simple and order a bunch of pizza from your favorite place (Homeslice, Olde School House, and Happy Pappy’s are Durango favorites). If you want to add a little pizzaz book Fired Up. They will bring the pizza oven to your party and cook the pizzas right in front of you!
Ultimately, you and your soon-to-be spouse should pick something that fits your vibe as a couple. If family members are planning it or helping pay for it take into consideration how they can help without getting stressed out. Your wedding should bring feelings of community, love, and FUN, not worry and stress!
