Your rehearsal dinner should be photographed too… Hear me out.

You’ve just finished your ceremony-run-through. Emotions are high, you’re excited to get married. You’re all dressed up. Your favorite people are in town. Get some fun photos of you & your boo to remember the whole weekend.

Like we said back in 2010… you only live ✨once✨

What a Rehearsal Dinner Really Is

Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner follows the ceremony walk-through and includes the wedding party and close family. Why does this matter?

This is often the first time both sides of your people are together. Your partner’s family meets yours, your wedding party is finally altogether in one place. (Unless you had a joint-bach party! Yes I’ve been to one and they are super fun!!)

It’s the calm before the big day you’ve worked so hard to plan. It’s a time to ground yourself before the chaos.

A&J’s Rehearsal Dinner at The Pearl / VELE

Following their wedding rehearsal at First Presbyterian Church, Josh and Adam hosted their loved ones at The Pearl, hidden away in VELE. This is the best rehearsal dinner spot in Springfield.

First, the vibes? Immaculate. Low lighting, dark walls, comfy seating, and little details referencing pearls? So fun.

Second, the food?? INCREDIBLE. Catered by VELE, we indulged in some of the best food Springfield has to offer.

What we ate; VELE’s incredible menu

There were so many good things to eat at VELE. Here are some of my faves:

Shrimp & Crab Cakes: blue & deep sea crab, gulf shrimp, herb panko, jalapeño pineapple salsa, piquillo pepper aioli

Crispy Broccolini: broccolini, white balsamic reduction, candied walnuts, truffle goat cheese

Chicken Piccata: Linguine, Lemon Caper Beurre Blanc, Pan Seared Chicken Breast, Piccata Pan Sauce, Parmesan

Spicy Calamari: crispy calamari, pickled fresno peppers, spicy pomarosa, parmesan

Filet Bites: aged beef tenderloin, orzo, bleu cheese and wild mushroom cream, beef bordelaise, cherry balsamic reduction

^^^ my ABSOLUTE favorite!!

I’ve been using flash more at wedding & events and WOW! It was so fun to photograph food and people. Peep the fun candids from that night. Josh could not wait to dive in!!

The wedding day flies by so fast. It was extra special to get photos of Adam + Josh & their loved ones at their rehearsal dinner.

Adam’s drink of choice that nigth was Lady Gaga’s favorite drink: a Kalimotxo! Which is red wine and diet coke.

Why Couples Love Having Their Rehearsal Dinner Photographed

1. It’s the chillest part of the weekend

No timeline, no traveling from location to location, no getting ready. The wedding is tomorrow! You’ve rehearsed, things are all good. You can truly relax with your loved ones and get photos that reflect the calm before the party!

2. More candids, naturally

Because it’s the chillest part of the weekend, you can sit back & relax! It’s easier to get candids with folks because you’re relaxed. Not only is the timeline relaxed but your outfits are as well. Wedding fits can be a big deal- rehearsal dinner outfits are a little more fun, playful, and causal.

Before we all went home, I got to take photos of Adam & Josh’s rings and watches. Josh’s ring was his grandpa’s so it’s an extra special heirloom.

Aren’t they so cute!! I am so honored to have documented their evening before the big day!

Since you’ve made it all the way to the end, you’re probably wondering if you should have your rehearsal dinner photographer. Well you’re in luck! I would love to be there.

Check out what weddings with me look like, and fill out the inquiry form!