A Rehearsal Dinner in Texas Inspired by the Amalfi Coast

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bride and groom at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

College sweethearts Alyssa and Cody originally planned to tie the knot in Santa Barbara, California, but after pivoting twice due to Covid, they made an entirely new plan: They booked Alyssa's favorite childhood spot—her summer camp, The Retreat at Balcones Springs in Marble Falls, Texas—instead.

On September 17th, 2021, the couple welcomed their guests to a weekend of outdoor activities with a festive rehearsal dinner, where pops of bright citrus yellow complemented coastal blue-and-white china; custom playlists included throwback favorites from the couple's college days; and a lineup of personal speeches had guests laughing (and crying). "The vision was an Amalfi Coast-inspired Mediterranean dinner set against Texas Hill Country," says Alyssa. The family-style meal spoke to the far-flung theme, as did the event's signature cocktail—an Aperol spritz—and sunny yellow-and-blush florals, which were punctuated with lemons.

Though replanning the wedding had its stressful moments, the final decision to stay in Texas was ultimately the right one—it eased travel for some of the 70 family and friends who were in attendance. "My grandmother was initially unable to fly to Santa Barbara for our wedding, but because we pivoted to Texas, she was able to drive from Dallas to attend the weekend festivities—which was truly so special," says Alyssa. As for the bride's favorite memory from this part of her and Cody's wedding weekend? "Looking out at our closest family and friends all together just as the sun went down," she says, "surrounded by the magic of one of the most special places in my life."

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Space Plans

outdoor rehearsal dinner venue — Jenna McElroy

Alyssa and Cody chose the venue's Thicket Patio for their al fresco rehearsal dinner, where majestic trees shaded the tables and guests enjoyed a waterfront view. "The open-air, tree-lined canopy and the gravel lent itself to capturing a dreamy Italian essence," says Alyssa. "Plus, the venue overlooks Austin's Lake Ted—which was a stunning backdrop, especially at sunset."

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Fresh and Fun

bride in Broderie Anglaise skirt and Davida top from Alexis Vittoria at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Alyssa paired a summery skirt and top from Alexis for her rehearsal dinner outfit. "I wanted something that felt laid-back and coastal (but still chic!) to offset my wedding dress, which was more timeless and elegant," she says.

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Summer Style

bride and groom during rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Cody also opted for a slightly relaxed look, wearing his Brooks Brothers suit and Eton shirt without a tie.

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All in the Family

bride and sister at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Alyssa and her sister also wore matching necklaces—a surprise heirloom given to them by their mother just before the event. "She gifted us each a small diamond necklace that she had re-purposed from a pair of diamond stud earrings that our late grandfather had given my grandmother on Valentine's Day several years ago," says Alyssa. "My sister and I surprised my grandmother by wearing her diamonds that night!"

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Salute!

Aperol Spritz drink at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Along with a full bar, the couple offered bright Aperol spritzes—an Italian classic—accented with fresh orange wedges and cheerful striped straws.

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Al Fresco Style

round tables with wooden chairs at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

A mix of round and rectangular tables were set up in a shady spot; bistro lights were strung overhead and added warm ambience when the sun went down.

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Bright Blooms

rehearsal dinner centerpieces with blue ginger vases holding sunset pink and lemon yellow flowers — Jenna McElroy

A collection of metal vases held fresh flowers in shades of lemon yellow and blush, accented by dark green foliage.

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At Each Place

close up of rehearsal dinner place settings — Jenna McElroy

Light-washed wood chargers held blue patterned dishware, while gold flatware, bright citrus accents, and cut-glass votive holders created a casually elegant tablescape.

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Head Table

place setting at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Rectangular stations were lined with simple greenery garlands, which were punctuated with cheerful lemons.

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Family Style

table settings at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Alyssa chose a Mediterranean-inspired menu that offered a respite from the soaring Texas temperatures while tying into the evening's theme. Family-style dishes included lamb kebabs, bruschetta, tomato and cucumber salad, chicken piccata, and lemon bars.

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A Little Sip

vintage bottles filled with limoncello at place settings at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

The couple set a vintage bottle filled with limoncello at each place setting as a nod to their Greek and Italian heritages. The bride's family took charge of filling each bottle and attaching the place cards, while Alyssa and Cody worked on another personal touch for the evening: custom Spotify playlists that showed off their favorite tunes.

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Words of Love

bride and groom during speeches at rehearsal dinner — Jenna McElroy

Speeches from the couple's friends and family—including Cody's parents, the groomsmen, and Alyssa's best friend from camp—were a memorable part of the evening. "One of Cody's groomsmen gave one of the best—and longest—speeches in history, coming in just shy of 20 minutes!" says Alyssa. "He had everyone crying with laughter. The last toast of the evening was an incredibly special impromptu speech from my brother, JD, which had everyone choked up." After dinner, the couple treated their guests to s'mores and beer during a welcome night bonfire. "My vision was to host a meal shared for our closest family and friends filled with lots of laughter, toasts, and tears, just as the sun set over the lake on a warm Texas night," says Alyssa.