Festive Autumn Rehearsal Dinner

“Family. That is the heart of rehearsal dinners. Weddings celebrate a new marriage, a union of two individuals, while rehearsal dinners celebrate past, present, and future families. They are an exciting beginning and a bitter-sweet end; a last hurrah and a joining of families that happens over a table filled with food, anticipation, and love.” We couldn’t think of a more perfect introduction for today’s post, so we had to share with you the words of Meredith Speer, mastermind of today’s feature and creator behind Bristol Lane Florals.

The couple arrived to a gorgeous banner created by Whitney Farnsworth, a stunning table set up by Southern Social and a yard of their closest friends (including their sweet pup, Molly).

Meredith and her team worked to make this rehearsal look elegant and cozy with touches of pecans and bourbon, two of the couple’s favorite southern things. A chef brought in a slew of amazing dishes, including grits, pecan-planked figs, and roasted acorn squash with pecan-honey butter. Having the dinner in the bride’s parent’s backyard and bringing in a caterer allowed the family to fully focus on one another and celebrating the upcoming marriage of Sarah and Marshal.

Michelle Boyd Photography and Clayton Stringer Productions captured every sweet moment as the group mingled, ate, and toasted to the past and future of this amazing couple. It was a special and moving night. Instead of worrying about last minute details, there was an overwhelming peace and thankfulness as the family settled in for dinner. As the sun set, Sarah’s father welcomed Marshal into their family with a toast and open arms.

Marshall + Sarah // A Styled Autumn Rehearsal Dinner from Stringer Productions on Vimeo.

Vendors: Photography: Michelle Boyd Photography // Videography: Stringer Productions // Florals: Meredith Speer of Bristol Lane Florals // Planning & Event Design: Southern Social // Calligraphy: Whitney Farnsworth // Venue: The Winfield Inn // Food Styling: Forage & Fodder // Chef Extraordinaire: Betty Kilpatrick // Cake & Pie Baker: Rebecca Hubert // Makeup and Hair Stylist: Makenzi Laine // Tables & Furniture Rentals: Birch & Brass // Bride’s Dress: Anthropologie // Dinnerware & Serving Utensils: West Elm, Crate & Barrel, & Vintage Candles & Holders: Everyday Occasions // Film Processing: PhotoVision