Your rehearsal dinner is the first opportunity to bring your closest family and friends together for a night of celebration before your wedding day. Finding the right venue is crucial in setting the tone for this special evening and in Washington, DC, it can be overwhelming because there are so many great places to choose from. Whether you want a cozy and intimate gathering or a grand celebration with stunning views, DC has it all. To help make your decision a little easier, I’m using my years of DC photographer experience to help you find the perfect place for your celebration.
To help you with visuals, I’m highlighting Michelle & Jordon’s wonderful evening at Old Ebbitt Grill, a landmark and classic DC restaurant that’s rich in history.
Here are my top tips for finding the ideal venue in DC for your wedding rehearsal dinner, with a special focus on their cocktail hour on the rooftop of Old Ebbitt..
DC Photographer Top Five Tips for Choosing Place for Rehearsal Dinner
1. Consider Your Style and Ambiance
The first step in choosing the perfect venue is to decide on the overall vibe you want for your rehearsal dinner. Do you envision a formal sit-down dinner or a more relaxed cocktail party? Old Ebbitt Grill offered Michelle & Jordon an elegant yet welcoming setting, with its classic DC décor and unbeatable location near the White House. The space is perfect for couples seeking an upscale, classic DC vibe.
For Michelle & Jordon, the night began with an intimate dinner with their immediate family in a private area of the restaurant and then followed with a rooftop cocktail hour overlooking the stunning city skyline. Their closest friends and wedding party mingled while enjoying cocktails and appetizers with breathtaking views of the White House and the Washington Monument for a truly memorable DC experience.
2. Of course…Location
In a city like DC, the location of your rehearsal dinner can make all the difference. Do you want something central with easy access for all your guests? Or are you open to venturing a little further away in Alexandria, VA or Old Town? Keep in mind that traffic can be an issue and make sure you have a plan to get everyone to the restaurant.
Old Ebbitt Grill is an ideal choice because it’s so close to major hotels and landmarks, ensuring a convenient gathering spot for both locals and out-of-town guests.
Think about choosing a venue that offers scenic views, historic architecture, and or proximity to iconic landmarks. Old Ebbitt’s rooftop has sweeping city views, especially at night when the monument and White House are lit up which made for incredible photos for guests.
3. Food and Drink Are Key
Great food and drinks are essential to creating a memorable rehearsal dinner experience and DC has a plethora of Michelin Star restaurants as well as on the rise newcomers. Old Ebbitt Grill is famous for its exceptional seafood and classic American fare. Whether you prefer a seated meal or a more relaxed cocktail-style evening, be sure to choose a venue with an impressive menu that fits your wedding theme.
4. Ensure Flexibility for Your Guests
While small intimate places around the city can be charming, make sure the venue you choose is flexible when it comes to accommodating the needs of your guests. Will there be enough space for everyone? Does the venue offer options for seating, and is it accessible for guests with mobility concerns?
For Michelle & Jordon, Old Ebbitt Grill was accommodating, offering different seating arrangements in a private area and the spacious outdoor rooftop where their guests could move freely. Ensuring that your venue offers a comfortable environment for everyone will make the evening enjoyable and stress-free.
5. Book Early for Prime Dates
Many of the top venues in DC book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season. Once you know your date, secure your venue as early as possible. By booking early, you also give yourself ample time to plan every detail of your rehearsal dinner, from décor to catering to entertainment.
DC Photographer – My Final Thoughts
While lighting is not a huge priority because as a photographer I can adapt to any lighting situation, it is a good idea to check with the venue’s staff to be aware of any restrictions they might have as far as flash photography or other equipment.
Be sure to also check out Michelle & Jordon’s wedding day at The Willard Intercontinental.
