How to Plan a Rehearsal Dinner at Austin Restaurants
Y'all, the big day is almost here! As an Austin-based wedding planner, I know how stressful it can be to coordinate all the details, especially when it comes to the rehearsal dinner. But don't worry, sugar - I'm here to spill all my local secrets on how to throw an unforgettable rehearsal dinner at one of Austin's amazing restaurants.
First things first, let's talk about the purpose of a rehearsal dinner. It's that special pre-wedding celebration where the wedding party, close family, and out-of-town guests gather to toast the happy couple, enjoy a delicious meal, and get pumped up for the big day. It's the perfect time to let your hair down, unwind, and connect with your loved ones before the craziness of the wedding.
Now, when it comes to finding the perfect Austin venue for your rehearsal dinner, the options are endless, y'all. From trendy downtown hotspots to cozy Hill Country hideaways, there's something for every couple's vibe and budget. Let's dive into some of my top picks:
Choosing the Right Austin Venue
Fairmont Austin is a stunning luxury hotel right in the heart of downtown. Their Revue Ballroom is a gorgeous space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline. It can accommodate up to 120 guests for a seated dinner.
For an intimate, farm-to-table experience, check out Odd Duck in South Lamar. Their covered patio is the perfect setting for a rehearsal dinner of up to 50 people. The menu features seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients that'll have your guests raving.
If you're looking to wow out-of-town guests with quintessential Texas flair, The Oasis on Lake Travis is hard to beat. This Hill Country gem has multiple event spaces that can host up to 1,000 people. Imagine sipping margaritas on their iconic multi-tiered decks as the sun sets over Lake Travis - pure magic, y'all.
| Venue | Location | Capacity | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Austin | Downtown | 120 seated | $5,000 - $10,000+ |
| Odd Duck | South Lamar | 50 seated | $2,000 - $5,000 |
| The Oasis on Lake Travis | Lake Travis | 1,000 seated | $10,000 - $20,000+ |
Timing and Guest List
When it comes to timing, the rehearsal dinner is typically held the night before the wedding. This allows the wedding party to get together, run through the ceremony, and celebrate before the big day. Most rehearsal dinners take place between 6-8 PM, giving folks enough time to get ready and arrive.
As for the guest list, the traditional rule of thumb is to invite the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, etc.), their spouses/partners, and both sets of parents. But you can definitely get creative and expand the invite list to include other VIPs like grandparents, officiant, and out-of-town guests. Just keep in mind that the smaller and more intimate, the better for this event.
Catering and Menus
When selecting the catering and menu for your rehearsal dinner, think about the vibe you want to create. Are you going for a fancy, multi-course affair? Or a more casual, family-style spread?
For a formal, elegant dinner, Olamaie is a fantastic choice. This upscale Southern restaurant is known for its impeccable service and mouthwatering seasonal dishes. They can work with you to craft a custom multi-course menu that'll have your guests feeling like true VIPs.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more laidback, communal dining experience, you can't go wrong with Lazarus Brewing Company. This local brewery has a huge covered patio that's perfect for a rehearsal dinner. You can order a mix of their signature craft beers, housemade pizzas, and shareable plates for a truly Austin-y vibe.
And of course, don't forget to consider adding some Tex-Mex flair to the menu! Matt's El Rancho is a classic Austin Tex-Mex institution that would be perfect for a casual, family-style rehearsal dinner. Their sizzling fajitas, queso, and margaritas are guaranteed to have your guests feeling the love.
Decor and Activities
When it comes to decor, you'll want to keep things simple and elegant. Fresh greenery, candles, and thoughtful personal touches like polaroid photos or a signature cocktail are all you need to create a warm, welcoming ambiance.
And for activities, the options are endless! You could do a wine or whiskey tasting, hire a mariachi band, or even have a mini version of the wedding ceremony to get everyone pumped up. The key is to pick activities that will help your loved ones bond and make memories together.
One super fun idea is to work with a local company like Party On Delivery to create custom signature cocktails or a full-service wedding bar for the event. They can handle all the details, from providing the bar equipment and staff to crafting Instagram-worthy specialty drinks. That way, you and your crew can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I book my rehearsal dinner venue?
A: For most Austin venues, you'll want to book your rehearsal dinner space at least 6-12 months in advance, especially if you're planning to host it on a Friday or Saturday night. The most popular and in-demand spots tend to fill up quickly, so it's best to secure your date as soon as possible.
Q: Do I have to invite the entire wedding party to the rehearsal dinner?
A: No, the rehearsal dinner guest list is entirely up to you. While it's customary to invite the wedding party, their partners, and both sets of parents, you can certainly expand the list to include other VIPs like grandparents, the officiant, or out-of-town guests. Just keep in mind that the more intimate the event, the more special it will feel.
Q: Can I have alcohol at my rehearsal dinner?
A: Absolutely! In fact, most rehearsal dinners feature a full bar, signature cocktails, and/or wine service. Just be sure to work with a reputable provider like Party On Delivery to handle the logistics. They can provide all the bar equipment, staff, and custom beverage offerings to make your rehearsal dinner a true celebration.
Ready to elevate your weddings? Explore our wedding bar service, signature cocktails, reception beverage packages, and day-of alcohol delivery for Austin weddings and let Party On Delivery handle the details.
This article is part of our comprehensive The Ultimate Guide to Austin Wedding Bar Service. Explore the full guide for more tips and resources.
Brian Hill
Co-founder of Party On Delivery, specializing in premium event experiences across Austin.