I was lucky enough to have a mother-in-law that I completely trusted to do the entire rehearsal dinner.  I actually told her I wanted it to be a surprise – because I knew she would make it perfect.   I wanted to share some of the little details because I think these are important parts of the wedding.  It’s the little things we remember and also get to take with us as souvenirs.

Labor of Love: My Mother in Law did all of the decorating for the rehearsal dinner herself (with help of friends of course), but talk about DIY!  We got married in October, so she got huge white pumpkins, completely carved them out and went to a local florist who had all freshly cut fall flowers.  To keep the flowers watered, glass bowls (perfect size) fit nicely into the body of the pumpkin.

People, Places, Things: Around each centerpiece were tea lights and a personalized table name (with, of course, cut outs to emphasize the location).  Each table was named after a place where Lavender Dude and I had shared a special moment.  So of course, since we got engaged in Rome, there was a Rome table.

Heritage/Tradition: Lavender Dude and I are both from Maryland, so having a crab feast the day before we were married was an amazing way of celebrating where we were coming from, and who we will always be.  Also, because Lavender Dude is Greek, we had glasses of Ouzo in front of everyone’s seat, so each and every friend and family member took part in a little Greek Tradition.

Something to remember and for the future: The last little detail that is quite possibly my favorite, were the engraved crab mallets with our names and wedding date on them.  I hadn’t done a lot of stuff like this for the actual wedding day (personalized/engraved things), so having this at the rehearsal dinner was very special for me.

If there is one piece of advice I can give you, it’s to make sure you create little special moments for yourself throughout your big day.  Also, make sure you incorporate who you and your fiance are as individuals and a couple.  Wedding trends come and go, but the unique things are what make it an unforgettable day/night for you and your guests.

*All photos are credited to my extremely talented cousin and professional photographer, Alexandra Wyman.