Steal this couple’s formula for hosting the perfect rehearsal dinner

When you're planning a wedding, planning another event may seem insurmountable. You've already exhausted every idea on your wedding Pinterest board; how do you throw another party that's different but still cohesive? And are there different guest lists for the rehearsal itself and the dinner? So many questions. Luckily, this couple was sweet enough to share their gorgeous rehearsal dinner with us, along with a picture-perfect blueprint of how to pick everything from the design to the guest list. So keep reading, and by the time you're done scrolling through these stunning photos by Siobhan Stanton Photography, you'll no doubt have your very own rehearsal dinner all planned out.

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their love story

Catherine and Max first met in early 2020, just before the world shut down. Their early dates in New York City quickly gave way to a pandemic-era romance spent navigating the unknown together. Despite the circumstances, their bond deepened. They shared a love for travel, food, and time with each other’s families, and it wasn’t long before they knew this connection was meant to last. Max proposed in September 2024 in Florence, at a quiet overlook just beyond Piazzale Michelangelo. With the city as their backdrop and no phones or distractions, they shared a quiet, meaningful moment that kicked off the next chapter of their lives.

the venue: wainwright house

The night before their wedding, Catherine and Max hosted an elevated summer BBQ at the historic Wainwright House in Rye, New York. With sweeping views of the water, it tied together all the places that shaped their story—Westchester, Long Island, and Manhattan. The setting, adorned with blue hydrangeas and glowing string lights, made for a magical June evening surrounded by friends and family. Max’s mom even made her own cloth garland for the décor of the bars, which was an ode to her family parties growing up.

Tip: Pick a place that's special to you and your relationship. *Bonus points if they serve food*

the vision: summer on the water

Catherine’s vision of a water-inspired summer palette was brought to life. It was a joyful, heartfelt start to the weekend and a celebration that reflected both their families and their story. The mood was relaxed yet refined, with personal touches like speeches from friends and family, and blue hydrangeas, string lights, and hand-sewn garlands by Max’s mom set the tone for a warm evening.

Tip: Keep it less formal than the wedding. I.E. If your wedding is black-tie, your rehearsal dinner can be cocktail. if your wedding is cocktail, keep things casual but still elegant

There were so many special moments, but one that truly stands out is when I saw the blue hydrangeas in bloom by the water. I had always pictured having my June wedding with blue skies and blooming hydrangeas, and seeing it come to life was so special. It was such a beautiful backdrop, along with the water views, as guests sipped their cocktails. Ultimately, being surrounded by so many loved ones made it the most memorable.

tip: For the design, pull inspiration from the season and the destination.

Blue is my favorite color, so it was woven throughout the entire weekend. For the rehearsal dinner, we opted for a more casual BBQ theme with a different table floral color scheme, but the stunning blue hydrangea bushes matched our wedding florals perfectly. We had hoped for a sunny day, but despite the rain that moved everything indoors on our wedding day, the blue hydrangeas really tied everything together.

tip: keep the color palette complementary of your wedding design, including one color that can be the throughline for the entire weekend.

the fashion

I had a bit of trouble finding the perfect rehearsal dinner dress, but about two weeks before the wedding, I stumbled upon this beautiful PatBO butterfly dress while shopping at Bloomingdale’s in NYC. The moment I tried it on, I just knew it was the one. It was the perfect blend of elegance and fun.

tip: a little color goes a long way. a lot of brides tend to lean into all-white for the entire weekend, but a hint of your wedding color palette will make the look incredibly cohesive.

how to decide who to invite

We wanted to share the night with all our family who could make it, so we invited all of our cousins, aunts, uncles, and some close family friends (of course, in addition to the bridal party—we each had 12 bridesmaids and groomsmen).

tip: when it comes to invites the bridal party, immediate family, and their plus one's are a must.

the menu

We wanted the rehearsal to feel elevated but still casual and fun. We had a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, followed by a buffet-style BBQ dinner, catered by Bartleby & Sage. The food was incredible, and the relaxed atmosphere set the tone for the weekend. We loved our family and friends' speeches and catching up with everyone.

tip: don't be afraid to spice things up. whether it's bbq or sushi, pick something that showcases local cuisine and that is different enough from the wedding day menu.

words of wisdom from the happy couple

All the planning and stressful moments are worth it! There’s nothing like spending a weekend with all of your loved ones while marrying your best friend. Try not to sweat the little things—you’ll laugh about those someday. Focus on the big picture and enjoy every moment of the weekend (oh, and if it rains on your wedding day, it is good luck)!

tip: what they said 🙌

• Photography: Siobhan Stanton Photography
• Venue: Wainwright House
• Caterer: Bartleby & Sage
• Rentals: Elite/PBS Tents & Events