Weddingbee Blog

The Garth Newel chamber music players (l); view of the barns and grounds of the music center (r)

No, no, Garth Newel isn’t a country western singer. It’s a music center–a fantastic bit of culture in the middle of ruritania.

It is apparently one of the country’s premier chamber music venues… and it’s located in one of the most beautiful, bucolic areas of Virginia… in Warm Springs (which is just a mile up from Hot Springs, where our wedding at the Homestead will be). And that’s where we’re having our rehearsal dinner.

View of inside of barn dining room area. It’s a popular reception site, as well–the food is said to be excellent. Photo by Elizabeth Larson.

This evening, we went over to Mr. P’s parents’ house to bring them dinner. (His mother just had foot surgery a few days ago.) But before that, they made sure to take a trip down to the Homestead area to make arrangements for the rehearsal dinner. We got all the details over a meal of ham and noodle casserole that I made (isn’t that so fifties???). And I gotta tell you, from what they described of the venue, we’re really excited about the rehearsal dinner just as much as the ceremony itself! Mr. P’s parents are very enthusiastic about it, and have plans for a four course sit-down dinner with an open bar cocktail hour. Super generous!

We’re really happy that we’ll be able to enjoy the pre-wedding festivities amongst the beautiful scenery, great dining, and relaxed, country chic-ness! Yay old barns and wildflowers!!!

Country chic elements. Photos of real wedding, courtesy of Gabriel Li.

Beautiful views from the music center.

I’m really happy about my FIL’s choice of venue for this dinner. I could have had more of an input if I wanted, but it wasn’t necessary. I trusted their taste and knew that if anything bothered me, they’d have been willing to accommodate. (And I’m not just saying that for brownie points, either.)

Did your in laws plan your entire rehearsal dinner or did you and your fiance plan it?