Sarah & Blake’s Lake Michigan Rehearsal Dinner
Sarah and Blake’s rehearsal dinner was an unforgettable evening that perfectly captured their shared love for travel, entertaining family and friends, and whimsical details. Held at a private lakeside home in Holland, Michigan, this vibrant event blended colorful retro vibes with classic rock-inspired charm, set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. Thoughtfully planned and designed by Jeannene Lillie Events, the evening was a flawless prelude to their highly anticipated wedding celebration.
A Scenic Start: Sailing on Lake Michigan
The June evening began with an exhilarating afternoon of sailing, allowing guests to soak in the lake’s serene beauty. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, attendees gathered under twinkling café lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Comfortable lounge furniture provided by Rental Ex Events and chic tabletop rentals from Event Theory elevated the ambiance. Stylish umbrellas from Modernly Events offered shade during the earlier hours, blending function and aesthetic perfectly.
An Elevated Atmosphere
Sarah, radiant in a vibrant designer dress by Zimmermann, set the whimsical mood of the event with her bold and playful style. Guests were greeted with a retro-inspired die-cut welcome sign that immediately infused the evening with a sense of fun. As they found their way to their seats, personalized coaster-style place cards, hand-lettered in whimsical calligraphy, added a unique and thoughtful touch.
The long dining tables were a masterpiece, adorned with lush, bright floral centerpieces crafted by Joy and Bloom Design Co. and accented by whimsical table runners from Anthropologie. Pops of fresh produce added natural charm to the tablescape, while linens from Nuage Designs elevated the overall look with their luxurious texture. Each place setting featured custom-illustrated menus, beautifully designed by Lupine Letters, blending art and function seamlessly.
A Culinary Experience
Guests enjoyed an Italian-inspired feast, expertly prepared by The Everyday Chef and Wife, whose attention to detail extended to both the meal and the well-stocked bar. A cigar bar, complete with customized cigars and matchboxes, became a popular gathering spot for mingling, while playful, custom koozies were a hit for keeping drinks chilled throughout the evening. As a sweet finale, guests were treated to individual s’mores kits, each adorned with custom tags designed by Lupine Letters that read, “How sweet it is to be loved by you”—a nod to Sarah and Blake’s love of classic rock and thoughtful details.
Live Music Under the Stars
Live music provided by a talented guitarist filled the air with medleys of classic rock tunes, tying in perfectly with the evening’s theme. As the melodies played and laughter echoed across the lakeside property, videographer Ellen Disorbo captured every heartfelt moment, while photographer Jenna Greenawalt documented the evening in stunning detail. Behind the scenes, Sprouts Content created captivating content, offering a glimpse into the artistry and joy of the event.
A Thoughtful and Unforgettable Celebration
From the colorful décor to the intentional guest experience, Sarah and Blake’s rehearsal dinner was more than an event—it was a celebration of their personalities, passions, and impeccable taste. With the collaborative efforts of an extraordinary vendor team, the evening came together as a truly unforgettable experience. It was a night that left everyone buzzing with excitement for the wedding day ahead.
The Vendor Team
Planning and Design: Jeannene Lillie Events | Florals: Joy and Bloom Design Co. | Photography: Jenna Greenawalt | Stationery: Lupine Letters | Videographer: Ellen Disorbo | Catering, Bar & Bakery: The Everyday Chef and Wife | Furniture Rentals: Rental Ex Events | Tabletop Rentals: Event Theory | Umbrellas: Modernly Events | Linens: Nuage Designs | Behind the Scenes Content Creator: Sprouts Content