Your wedding rehearsal is not about rehearsing.
Well, technically it is, but this event is not solely about knowing where you stand or how to walk down an aisle. It’s a special night with the unique opportunity to be intentional with the people who mean the most to you while celebrating the impact they have in your life.
Sitting at a table stretched long and wide are the faces of people who, over the years, have experienced life with you up until the point you say, “I do.” The people at this table will be the ones who will hold you accountable and motivate you in your marriage for years to come.
There are timeless rehearsal dinner traditions that inspire meaningful conversations, and you’ll want to plan a special night to show the people around your table your love and gratefulness. This is your guide to having the best wedding rehearsal with the best Local Lakeland Rehearsal Dinners.
PRIVATE ROOMS
Your wedding is the most important day of your life, but the preparation the night before is the key to having the best wedding day. Coordinating dinner plans with a local restaurant is one of the easiest ways to plan a rehearsal dinner.
Stepping into a lively space can set the stage for engaging conversation and vibrant interactions to bring your wedding party together. A private room is typically best for a smaller wedding party because of the limited space available and usually fewer additional guests invited to this type of rehearsal dinner. A restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere can set the tone to give even the most modest wedding parties a little more ease to enjoy conversation and interaction.
One of the best spots for a private party is along the sidewalk in downtown Lakeland at Banquet61. Banquet61 is the event space of Nineteen61, a Cuban culinary delight with cultural influences of Peruvian, Italian, French, Spanish, and the American South cuisine. The authentic cuisine takes pride in its fresh ingredients and local twists on Cuban classics. The event space for the 3-time award-winning restaurant of Central Florida’s best, is known for an atmosphere that encourages fine dining and intimate conversation.
If you are wanting a cottage-core, vintage vibe, reserve a space indoors or outdoors at Cobb and Pen. Give honorary toasts under the twinkling lights swinging above your dinner table, enjoy hors d’oeurves such as charcuterie, sliders, salads, and more, with options for entrees ranging from French fry tables to formal dining.
Lastly, enjoy a tour of the Terrace Hotel while you are researching rehearsal dinner locations. This dining experience gives a timeless backdrop for romance and an unforgettable evening. With sirloin, crab cake, tenderloin, and other entrees, this formal dinner with be an elegant evening to set the tone for your wedding day.
The best part about hosting your rehearsal in a private room? There is little-to-no stress because décor is rarely needed, cleanup is already paid for, and a private room is typically cheaper than a private event space because you are only paying for a room and the food.
PRIVATE EVENT SPACE
What do you do when there isn’t a restaurant to fit the size of your wedding party? Hosting your dinner at a private event space is the most meaningful way to be inclusive of everyone. This space is typically for a larger wedding party with an open invitation for extended family and close friends to join.
The difference between a private room and a private event space is that a room is within a restaurant while a space is typically standing on its own.
The Yard on Mass is the perfect space for entertaining a friendly party who loves to hangout and have a good time. With indoor and outdoor options, many guests can be included on your wedding eve. Bring cornhole, set up live music, rent or build a dance floor, and let it be a fun night of celebrating before the celebrations. A comfortable night of friendly fun together can get your wedding party excited for the big day. If you’re wanting to know more ways to make your wedding day unique, read this article [link to previous article].
The cozy corners and big windows bringing in natural light make 1833 Historic Venue the best place for an intentional rehearsal dinner. This space holds potential for interesting table conversation and late-night fun activities with its elegant space for private dinners and toasts. The long tables even give opportunity to bring together those who aren’t too familiar with each other.
The Uliana is a must-see venue tucked in Lakeland, FL, perfect for private dinner gatherings that inspires creativity and all the space to try out all your elegant Pinterest décor ideas. The Uliana Events team also has additional floral services, which is the perfect advantage to add natural beauty to your dinner space. As their motto goes, “There’s always a reason to celebrate, we’ll take it from here.”
In conclusion, if you aren’t wanting to leave out your best friend’s boyfriend or your second-removed cousin, book a private event space to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone!
WEDDING VENUE
Having your rehearsal dinner at the wedding venue is the easiest option. Your venue will most likely be set up for your wedding and less travel time to another venue will allow for more time with your people.
This may or may not be an option, so speak with your venue and event coordinator to see if this is possible before assuming.
Ultimately, it is important you feel comfortable with the location you choose and make the most of your night by being intentional with the people who have played a role in your life. Enjoy your rehearsal night and all that it means to be surrounded by the people you love most. And then, get ready for the day of your dreams.