Kick off the Party! — Rehearsal / Welcome Dinners
Kick off the weekend celebration with a BANG! Or maybe just some tacos, everyone loves tacos. We have compiled a list of fun ways to welcome your guests to the celebration. Whether you’re going for classy or downright fun we have some examples for you. We have hosted plenty of parties so don’t be afraid to give us a call and see what our personal favorites are. Otherwise, we will keep it short and sweet so you can get to dreaming!
Have a Fiesta!
What’s not to love about margaritas, churros, salsa, bright colors, and bringing the family together?! Lauren and Sam’s rehearsal dinner was a blast! It welcomed everyone into the space and allowed plenty of time for the couple to mingle with their guests and the toasts got everyone laughing to break the ice.
Vendors:
Photography: @coltandhannah
Venue: @theblackdiamondlodge
Coordination: @durangoeventplanners
Music: @robwebstermusic
Catering: @ziataqueria
Linens: @dedicatedlinenco
Bar: @thethirstyrooster
2. Throw a Luau!
Have guests dress in bright colors, book the awesome Devin Scott, throw some pineapple on the grille and you have yourself a party! Kiana & Grant’s fun Luau-inspired rehearsal dinner brought the whole family together at James Ranch for homegrown burgers and some grilled pineapple.
Vendors:
Venue: @jamesranch
Music: @devinscottukulele
Coordinator: @the.perfect.day.co
3. Have Yourself a Merry Little Welcome Dinner
Follow Alexis and Joe’s example and have a warm and cozy welcome dinner at a local Ciderworks spot. With Christmas trees, tinsel, and warm rugs the space invited guests to share fun stories from their past. The cider kept flowing and so did the laughter to make for a memorable night to kick off the wedding weekend!
Vendors:
Venue: Eso Terra Ciderworks
Photographer: Abbi Pittman Photos
4. A Better Backyard BBQ
Imagine locally raised beef turned into fresh, juicy burgers with farm fresh fixings and a homemade bun surrounded by all of your family and friends in the gorgeous Animas Valley. Is your mouth watering yet? This is possible at the fabulous James Ranch! We have coordinated many rehearsal/welcome dinners at James Ranch and they all have been a wonderful time of yummy food and reconnecting family!
5. Rent a Restaurant
Do you love downtown Durango? Why not rent out a restaurant on Main Street to kick off your big weekend? Just like Eso Terra featured above there are several restaurants that will let you rent out a portion of their space for an event such as 11th Street Station and Carver’s Brewing Company.
6. The Durango Hangout
The Nugget Bar is another great spot for a rehearsal/welcome dinner (or even an after party spot) because it’s a mile from the lodge so there is no need for Designated Driver’s if you all choose to walk. If not, its easy to have someone pick you up and drop you off as well! They have an awesome food truck with fun sliders, fries, and other seasonal options. They often have live music and the fun ski/snowboarding vibe gives guests the full Durango experience.
