How to Plan a Rehearsal Dinner for a Barn Wedding

The Barn at Belle Hills • August 20, 2025

Planning a rehearsal dinner for a barn wedding at a Northern Kentucky wedding venue is an opportunity to create a warm, memorable evening that sets the tone for your big day. We know how stressful getting every last detail perfect can be, so we’ve put together top considerations to help alleviate some worry from planning the perfect rehearsal dinner for your wedding party while leaning into the rustic charm of a barn wedding venue.

Buffet table with champagne, desserts, and refreshments, in a room with people.

Consider your theme and decor

Planning a rehearsal dinner for a barn wedding venue is the perfect opportunity to add décor that emphasizes the beautiful location. This is why we’re big fans of rustic, country, and vintage décor for barn weddings. This style is popular for a reason: it keeps décor simple while still tying the place together. Think soft string lights, lavender and eucalyptus, mason jars, lace, and muted, earthy color palettes. These décor choices are not only affordable but also low-maintenance.

keep your guest list intimate

Rehearsal dinners are typically for the family and the wedding party. They are the people closest to you who helped put the wedding together. Even though you probably won’t have to invite them, send out RSVPs so that you know how many people to formally expect. Plus, this is another opportunity to put something together on-theme to tie the event together without breaking the bank. Free online resources like Canva can be a great way to create a digital invitation with a little rustic flair. Don’t forget to let your guests know what the expectations will be for attire!

hiRE a photographer

You’ve likely already secured a photographer for the day of the wedding, but you should also consider hiring one to capture the candid, close celebration during the rehearsal dinner. That meaningful toast, casual games, a relaxed dinner with everyone together--you don’t want to lose these moments before the big day.

keep food & drink casual

Planning a rehearsal dinner at a barn venue is the perfect opportunity to keep dinner tasty but casual. BBQ, home cooking, and farm-to-table vibes add to the warm atmosphere and give off a relaxed feel while still giving you room to include crowd favorites. A casual bar for cocktails, local beers, or a bourbon tasting can add a fun, personal touch. If you want something really trendy and exciting, check if your venue has relationships with local food trucks.

Plan a memorable rehearsal dinner at the barn at belle hills

We’d love to play a part in making your wedding rehearsal dinner a night to remember. The Barn at Belle Hills is a family-owned and operated wedding venue nestled in beautiful Northern Kentucky. No matter what stage of planning your wedding or rehearsal dinner you are in, we are here to help make your special day fly off without a hitch. Schedule a tour of The Barn today or take a look at some inspiration from other happy couples.


We proudly serve the greater Crittenden, KY area, including Grant County, Owen County, Harrison County, Falmouth County, Gallatin County, Pendleton County, Boone County, Kenton County, Bracken County, Campbell County, and Scott County, KY.

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