Planning a wedding is more than just the ceremony and reception—it's about creating an entire experience for you and your guests. A wedding weekend allows couples to extend their celebration beyond just one day, offering more time for bonding, relaxation, and memorable moments with loved ones. At Evins Mill, we specialize in crafting seamless wedding weekends, where couples and guests can enjoy every moment, from arrival to farewell brunch. With a little preparation and thoughtful planning, a wedding weekend itinerary ensures that everything runs smoothly, leaving time to savor every special moment. Here's our ultimate guide to creating a perfect wedding weekend itinerary.
Day 1: Welcome and Rehearsal Dinner
The first day of the wedding weekend sets the tone for the festivities to come. It's the perfect time for guests to arrive, settle in, and enjoy a relaxed evening together before the big day.
Arrival and Check-In: Encourage guests to arrive in the afternoon, giving them time to check in, explore the venue, and unwind. At Evins Mill, our luxury creekside accommodations offer guests a comfortable retreat to enjoy throughout the weekend. Welcome Reception: Hosting a casual welcome reception is a great way to greet out-of-town guests and help everyone get acquainted. A light spread of drinks and hors d'oeuvres allows guests to mingle and feel welcomed without the formality of the main wedding events. Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner: In the early evening, gather the wedding party for a quick rehearsal of the ceremony. Having a rehearsal at the venue ensures everyone feels comfortable with the flow of the big day. Follow the rehearsal with a private dinner for the wedding party and close family members. At Evins Mill, we offer locally sourced cuisine in an intimate setting, allowing you to relax and enjoy the evening before the wedding. Evening Activities: After dinner, invite guests to participate in casual evening activities. Gather around a fire pit for s'mores, enjoy lawn games, or relax with a drink in one of our cozy gathering spaces. These moments allow for deeper connections and set a warm, celebratory tone.
Day 2: Wedding Day
The wedding day is the heart of the weekend, and a well-planned itinerary ensures everything flows smoothly from start to finish. Breakfast or Brunch: Start the day with a light breakfast or brunch to fuel everyone for the festivities. Offering a casual morning meal allows guests and the wedding party to gather without feeling rushed. Evins Mill's dining options include fresh, local ingredients to satisfy all tastes and dietary needs. Getting Ready: Assign plenty of time for the bridal party to get ready. Make sure hair, makeup, and photography sessions are built into the timeline so there's no need to rush. At Evins Mill, we offer private spaces for the bridal party to prepare comfortably, ensuring everyone feels relaxed and ready for the ceremony. Pre-Ceremony Photos: Consider scheduling first-look photos or group portraits before the ceremony. This saves time later and allows couples to enjoy more of their reception. Evins Mill's scenic backdrops—like our creekside spots and lush gardens—offer the perfect setting for capturing these moments.
Ceremony: Plan the ceremony time carefully, factoring in the season and lighting conditions. A late-afternoon ceremony often works well, providing ideal lighting for photography while giving guests time to enjoy the day without feeling rushed. Cocktail Hour: After the ceremony, host a cocktail hour to give guests a chance to relax and mingle while you take post-ceremony photos. Offering signature cocktails or local craft beers adds a personal touch to the event.
Reception: Plan for your reception to begin immediately after the cocktail hour. Whether it's an elegant seated dinner or a casual buffet, our team at Evins Mill ensures the dining experience runs smoothly. Include time for speeches, toasts, and special dances, but leave space for spontaneous moments, too.
After-Party: For guests who want to keep the celebration going, consider hosting a low-key after-party. Our on-site spaces are ideal for late-night gatherings, where guests can unwind and reflect on the day's events.
Day 3: Farewell and Departure
The final day of the wedding weekend is a time to reflect, relax, and say farewell to loved ones.
Farewell Brunch: A farewell brunch is the perfect way to end the weekend on a high note. This relaxed gathering allows everyone to come together one last time, sharing memories from the celebration. At Evins Mill, our chefs prepare delicious brunch options to suit all tastes, providing a fitting end to a joyful weekend.
Check-Out and Departure: Allow guests plenty of time to check out and depart at their leisure. Having a relaxed departure schedule ensures that everyone leaves feeling refreshed and grateful for the time spent together.
Optional Group Activities: If you have guests who want to extend their stay, consider planning optional activities. Hiking, fishing, or boating on nearby Center Hill Lake offers opportunities to enjoy Tennessee's natural beauty. Evins Mill's location makes it easy to explore the surrounding area and enjoy some extra leisure time with friends and family.
Tips for a Smooth Wedding Weekend
Communicate the Itinerary in Advance: Share the itinerary with guests before the wedding weekend. Providing a digital or printed version helps everyone know what to expect and plan accordingly.
Delegate Responsibilities: Assign key tasks to family members or trusted friends to help manage the weekend's events. Having extra hands on deck allows you to enjoy your wedding without worrying about logistics.
Stay Flexible: While planning is essential, it's also important to stay flexible. Unexpected moments often become the most cherished memories, so embrace the surprises that come with the weekend.
Include Time to Relax: Be sure to build in downtime throughout the weekend. Giving yourself and your guests space to relax ensures that everyone stays energized for the main events.
Why Evins Mill is Perfect for Your Wedding Weekend
At Evins Mill, we specialize in creating unforgettable wedding weekends. Our venue offers more than just a stunning setting—it's a retreat where you and your guests can relax, celebrate, and create lasting memories. With luxury accommodations, locally sourced cuisine, and a variety of recreational activities, Evins Mill provides the ideal backdrop for a seamless wedding weekend.
Whether you envision a rustic outdoor ceremony, an intimate reception, or a weekend filled with nature and connection, our experienced team is here to bring your vision to life.
Ready to start planning your wedding weekend? Visit our website to explore our offerings, or contact us today at 615.269.3740 to discuss your plans and schedule a tour. Let us help you create a wedding weekend that you and your guests will remember for a lifetime.
