Rehearsal Dinner Options

You don’t have to overthink the rehearsal dinner — it can be as casual or as extra as you want. The goal is simply to gather your core people, feed them, and kick off the weekend on a good note. At Rixey, couples usually pick one of four approaches:

1. Wedding Party-Only Pizza Night

• Easiest, cheapest, happiest option. Order way more pizza than you think you need, add a couple of salad bowls and some drinks, and you’re done.

• Works beautifully if you want to keep things relaxed and save your energy (and budget) for the main event.

• Bonus: You can do this right in the Manor kitchen or dining room while still getting that “gathered in one place” feeling.

2. Slightly Nicer Dinner — Same Group, Just Elevated

• Still just the wedding party and close family, but catered instead of takeout.

• Think BBQ drop-off, pasta trays, fajita bar — more effort than pizza but not formal.

• You can set it up buffet-style in the ballroom, courtyard, or even on the terrace if the weather is perfect.

3. Full Welcome Reception

• This is where the rehearsal dinner becomes an official pre-party.

• Invite the whole guest list or at least everyone arriving early.

• Light bites, cocktails, maybe lawn games — something that feels like “Night One of the Wedding Weekend.”

• This can also be paired with speeches or toasts from people who aren’t speaking at the wedding itself.

4. Off-Site Dinner at a Local Restaurant

• If you’d rather not host on-property, there are two very popular off-site choices:

  • Old House Vineyards — great for wine lovers and scenic sunset views.

  • Piedmont Steakhouse — cozy, classic, and perfect for groups that want a proper seated meal.

• These are ideal if you want a change of scenery or don’t feel like handling cleanup the night before your wedding.

Or MIX AND MATCH!