Hello,
I actually grew up & lived in Manheim, PA until I was 24, so I "kinda" know the area. My parents, brother & SIL, sister, relatives all still live in the area.... but I'm out in Tucson, AZ - so this is going to take some maneuving long distance!
My FDIL is a member of the boards here, so I can't say *too* much!! (waves to TaraLyn). Everything she's planned so far is great, and Tara is very down-to-earth, just wants everyone to have a great time, and isn't all glitzy ritzy.. I keep trying to tell her I'm wearing my sweats & t-shirts!!
Anyway... tangents... sorry...
Rehearsal Dinner: I believe we have the guest list around 20-25 (a lot depends if my son's dad, stepmom, and grandparents make it down Friday night, and dad & stepmom are going to help pay).
I originally thought of the Catacombs in Bubes Brewery - they are very nice, however, they are also a little bit more expensive. My son has suggested Olive Garden - bah, I love OG, but with the wedding at Chickie's Rock, and I believe she is having the reception at my brothers place in Mount Joy - I am trying to keep the Rehearsal Dinner in the Mount Joy/Columbia, even possibly Marietta area.
I'm not 100% sure where most out-of-towners will be staying. The only Olive Garden is at Park City - which, if you aren't familiar with the area between Route 30 & Route 283 - driving can be confusing - PLUS on a Friday night, congestion around that area (and how busy OG can be) will be tough.
I am looking for something "down home cooking" - I even checked out Gus's Family Restaurant in Mt. Joy (son has been there, thinks their food is very good, plus the price is good).. but Gus's doesn't do RD's on Friday nights.
My mom came up with the idea of having the RD at one of the Amish Farms - it's a very unique experience, where the Amish cook & serve your entire party. They only ask for donations of 10.00/plate. However, the only one she knows of is down in Ephrata or the Akron area - and that's pretty far.
I also need to make sure I have vegetarian plates, but if you are familiar with Lancaster County PA Dutch Cooking - you know it's meat & mashed potatoes with gravy.. LOL.
Sooooo... does anyone have any ideas? Suggestions? My husband suggested crossing the river and heading over to the York area - I think that may be too far. I just really want to have a Nice place, a little bit of PA Dutch food, and something that the kids will enjoy! (and we don't care if there's no alcohol).
Thanks!