We’ve hosted countless celebrations here at Windridge Estate, but some evenings stay with us long after the candles burn out. Sarah and Stephen’s mid-September outdoor rehearsal dinner was one of those. Their Italian-inspired celebration on our bocce courts perfectly captured the joy, warmth and magic that comes from reimagining what a pre-wedding gathering can look like.
Setting the Scene: Our Bocce Courts as Your Canvas
From the moment guests arrived, the tone was set. A playful “That’s Amore” sign welcomed them to an Italian al fresco celebration. The planning team at The Architects’ Daughter transformed the bocce courts into something timeless and charming. Proof of just how versatile this space can be for intimate gatherings.
That particular evening, Central New York was at its finest. The golden September light spilled across the rolling hills behind the estate, offering a naturally stunning backdrop. This is what we love most about outdoor rehearsal dinners at Windridge: the way natural beauty enhances every detail, with plenty of functional outdoor space to set long tables, string lights and let moments unfold.
A Feast That Brought Everyone Together
There was no better culinary partner for the evening than Via Napoli. Their mobile pizza setup on the bocce courts stole the show. Four incredible pizzas were served fresh out of the oven, each celebrating authentic flavors in a casual, crowd-pleasing way.
The classic Margherita was a hit, with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil. The Esposito featured soppressata and honey drizzle, creating the perfect sweet-savory balance. The Sugo brought bold flavor with garlic, spinach, candied bacon and mozzarella. And the Prosciutto Arugula topped things off with sophistication. Guests passed slices family-style, sharing favorites and going back for seconds (and thirds).
Thoughtful Details That Made the Difference
Red and white gingham tablecloths evoked the feeling of an Italian countryside trattoria, without ever feeling kitschy or overdone. A single long table ran down the bocce court, encouraging conversation and togetherness. The pizza service felt laid-back and joyful, keeping the atmosphere warm and unpretentious.
A self-serve spritz bar quickly became the evening’s gathering hub. With fresh citrus, herbs, and a “Saluti” sign inviting guests to help themselves, it was as beautiful as it was functional. Prosecco and Italian wines rounded out the bar, keeping everyone refreshed well into golden hour.
Small potted herb plants and citrus trees lined the table like quiet nods to the Italian countryside. These personal touches made the evening feel immersive but still true to Sarah and Stephen. It’s a great reminder that themed elements don’t need to be theatrical—they just need to be thoughtful.
Sweet Endings and the Joy of Being Together
As daylight faded, guests lingered over dessert. Cannolis in chocolate chip, pistachio, and Oreo flavors offered a sweet finale. But the most memorable moment? Sarah and Stephen’s pup making the rounds—dressed for the occasion in a tiny bow tie—reminding everyone this celebration was, above all else, about family.
Why This Type of Outdoor Rehearsal Dinner Actually Works
Sarah and Stephen didn’t try to replicate a restaurant outdoors. Instead, they embraced what makes al fresco dining so special: the relaxed pace, the shared tables and the unexpected magic of good food under open skies. That mindset, paired with a space like our bocce courts, creates something truly memorable.
Rather than relying on formality, their Italian-inspired theme gave structure and cohesion while leaving room for personality. The mobile pizza setup doubled as entertainment, giving guests something to watch, talk about and enjoy. Everything was designed for connection.
Creating Your Own Al Fresco Magic Here
The key to an unforgettable outdoor rehearsal dinner? A venue that offers natural beauty and the freedom to bring your vision to life. At Windridge, we love seeing how couples use our spaces creatively. Our bocce courts, fire pits and open-air lawns are made for events like this.
Think spritz bars and food trucks. Lawn games and sunset toasts. Whether casual or elevated, your rehearsal dinner should reflect your personalities—not just your schedule.
That’s what makes these evenings so special in the context of a full weekend celebration. At a destination-style venue like ours, your rehearsal dinner isn’t just a warm-up. It becomes part of the story. And with the right setting, it becomes one of your favorite memories.
Sarah and Stephen’s night proved it. Letting go of tradition just a little can create something that feels exactly like you.
Planning your own outdoor rehearsal dinner? We’d love to help you bring it to life at Windridge Estate.
VENUE Windridge Estate
PHOTOGRAPHY Chrysa Leigh
PLANNING The Architects’ Daughter
CATERING Via Napoli
