We see a lot of weddings here at The Little Nell, and since most of our events staff are in their 20s/30s, we GO to a lot of weddings as well. That’s why when something unexpected/out of the ordinary comes along, we are thrilled to participate and share their ideas with all of you. Here’s a few ideas for rehearsal dinners that definitely expand on the general concept of dinner with family and close friends.
For the Sports Lovers
We recently went to a wedding in Denver where the bride/groom opted for a Rockies baseball game over the usual rehearsal dinner get-together. Friends and family were given tickets in the same section and were able to trade stories, grab beers and bond over the Rockies’ big win. It was awesome, and what groom wouldn’t want to help plan this fun night?
For the Music Lovers
One wedding at The Snowmass Club opted to have all the guests attend the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival as a group, in lieu of a rehearsal dinner. The group partied all day, enjoying acts like Mumford & Sons and Sugarland. Also, the festival has a huge array of food carts and local restaurants on-hand, so it’s easy for everyone to find something they’ll enjoy eating. Feeling spendy? There’s always the VIP tent.
Another recent wedding decided to privately rent out the Belly Up in Aspen to have their favorite band play, following a dinner in town. While this certainly isn’t cheap, can you imagine a better, more intimate way to share a concert? We won’t tell you who the act was… but you will wish that you were invited to THAT wedding.
And for the freebie: Head to the listening lawn at the Benedict Music Tent to hear classical music from the Aspen Music Festival and School. (Consider bringing wine/cheese and other picnic items, or guests can BYOB.)
For the Foodie Lovers
June in Aspen is legendary for lots of reasons (scenery, hiking, biking), but the grand dame of events is the Food & Wine Classic. It is the ultimate for foodies from around the globe and features the top chefs/wine experts in a gorgeous location. One couple decided to forgo the traditional rehearsal dinner for the “Grand Tasting” — letting their lucky friends/family sample food and drink all day in the huge white tents in Wagner Park.
For the ultimate wine lover, La Paulée des Neiges returns to Aspen January 18 and 19, 2013. The event, which is like camp for Burgundy lovers, includes a fabulous dinner pairing some of Burgundy’s most sought-after winemakers with celebrated chefs at The Little Nell’s new restaurant, Element 47. There is also a lunch on top of Aspen Mountain. Look for more details on this event on the blog soon.
For the Outdoors Lovers
Grab the fishing poles! The Little Nell Adventures has arranged fly fishing outings for bridal parties, bachelor days and other pre-wedding fun. Groups have had half-day clinics (there is a 2 guests per guide ratio so everyone gets ample instruction) followed by an incredible meal on the banks of the river paired with wine from the hotel’s master sommelier. (Check out the spread below that was recently prepared for a group of fly fishers at Star Peak Cabin.)
Another favorite? Rent bikes and head down the Rio Grande Trail to the Woody Creek Tavern for margaritas, nachos and comfort food. Don’t even consider biking back after that… have a local transportation company or your hotel arrange transportation back for you and your bikes.
The point is, it’s your wedding. Have fun with it however you like! Any other fun “Un-Rehearsal Dinner” ideas out there to share?
Considering a wedding in Aspen? Give us a call at 970-920-6382.
