Rehearsal Dinner Venue Cancelled on Us

I would still consider reaching out to a couple other potential restaurants. You're so right that we really don't know what is going to happen in the coming months, but they should still be able to provide you with their standard lunch/drink/space packages and pricing info for you to look at. This would give you a head start when the restaurants do open back up that you could get in and make the reservation!

If you've made/are making a hotel block for guests that will be near your venue, another option could be to reach out to the hotel and see what they could accommodate at their hotel restaurant/bar area. Again, due to current guidelines, they may be leery of a group of 20+ people making a reservation, but with a little communication and compassion for the situation, explaining that you're trying to plan in advance, you should still be able to get some pricing info

Good luck!!!

I know it's hard to plan with restaurants right now. But I did speak with the restaurant hosting my bridal shower this week. They think that will be open before June. Many places are still doing carry out so maybe try contacting them and getting information in regards to pricing. Things will get better.

I would like to wholeheartedly encourage you to try to book with a local restaurant. Local businesses are going to be hurting and could use your patronage. Shoot em a message via facebook.

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Agreed!! I think everyone understands that even if future plans are uncertain right now, we all still need to make some type of plan b for personal sanity! I'm sure there are local restaurants that will absolutely be flexible and appreciate your patronage!!

Have you considered doing it at a hotel in the area? Sometimes hotels have their own restaurants and or catering companies. If not, they may allow you to rent out their conference room with chairs & tables and you could bring in catering!

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That's a good idea! The hotels in the area are pretty small, it's not a "happening" place lol. But worth a shot to check!

Local restaurants may also be more willing to plan something with you if you tell them that you'll still order from them even if you can't eat at the restaurant and end up having to do take out. In a place that's not very "happening," the local hotels may not have a full restaurant, but they probably at least have a conference room (or worst case scenario, maybe a large suite?) where you all could eat together with food from somewhere else.

View Quoted Comment That’s a great point!! i’ve found a couple of nearby restaurants to reach out to so hopefully we can make something work, even if just ordering their food takeout/catering

Not much advice. This is just a super unfortunate year for everyone. If it makes you feel any better, I had a friend who booked their hotel AND rehearsal dinner 50 minutes away from the venue. Even though there were closer hotels and restaurants. 🤷‍♀️

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Many small hotels even have banquet rooms you can rent and bring in your own food. I would think you might get a good deal during this time of uncertainty!

We went to a really fun, lowkey, rehearsal dinner at a clubhouse in a park. They ordered in pizzas and salad. There were beer and wine to be had. It was a great time!

View Quoted Comment That’s a great idea!!! ill have to see if there’s any parks nearby the venue!!