Joe T. Garcia’s Rehearsal Dinner | Devon & Nathan
Nathan and Devon’s story began years before their wedding weekend in Texas. The two met in 2018 while working for Deloitte in Australia, initially bonding as part of a shared friend group. Living in different cities meant their relationship grew intentionally, with Nathan planning creative virtual dates in 2020—from wine tastings to cooking and painting together. When he finally flew from Brisbane to Melbourne for their first in-person date, they took a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, setting the tone for a relationship rooted in adventure, connection, and shared experiences. That same sense of intentional hosting and warmth carried through every part of their wedding weekend in Texas.
As guests traveled in from all over to celebrate, the rehearsal dinner became an important opportunity to welcome everyone properly—setting the tone for the days ahead, including their Hotel Drover wedding. From the start, Shannon was clear about her vision: a Texas fiesta, but elevated—classy, pretty, and incredibly welcoming. She and Nathan weren’t just hosting a dinner; they were hosting an experience. The goal was for guests to feel comfortable, celebrated, and immersed in the Texas way of life, with plenty of great food, drinks, and energy.
Joe T Garcia’s Rehearsal Dinner | Modern Fiesta
To bring that vision to life, I leaned into a modern fiesta approach, rather than relying on bright, traditional color palettes. Instead, we focused on neutral, earthy tones that felt tailored and intentional, drawing directly from the existing textures and colors of Joe T. Garcia’s iconic space. Because the venue doesn’t rely heavily on dramatic lighting, the design centered on architectural details and thoughtful rentals that felt like a natural extension of the room. Basket-woven chairs, clay- and taupe-toned linens, woven chargers, and stone silverware layered together to create a cohesive look—effortless, warm, and grounded in place.
The artwork already present throughout the venue became another key source of inspiration, subtly guiding the color palette and reinforcing the authenticity of the design. Rather than overpowering the space, every element was chosen to enhance what already made Joe T. Garcia’s so special.
As guests arrived, they were immediately immersed in the experience. A seating chart made from vintage wooden ladders greeted them at the entrance, with escort cards hanging casually yet intentionally—an inviting first impression that set the tone for the evening. At the bar, guests were handed margaritas right away (a non-negotiable at Joe T.’s, especially for locals), while mariachis played, filling the courtyard with music and energy. The result was instant—festive, joyful, and unmistakably Texas.
Dinner itself was designed to feel relaxed and communal, encouraging conversation and connection. Quesadillas, queso, salsa, and sizzling fajitas were served—approachable, crowd-pleasing, and deeply rooted in the local culture. Throughout the evening, guests were entertained by heartfelt speeches, an important element for the couple, who wanted friends and family to feel heard and involved rather than following a rigid program.
Photographer: Jeff Brummett Photography
Venue: Joe T Garcia’s
Planner & Designer: Shannon Rose Events
Cinema: 718 Creative
Flowers: Wedfully Yours
Rentals: Posh Couture Rentals
Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola
Hair & Makeup: Stephanie Nelson
Paper: Hazelwood Paper Co
