Jazz Under the Stars: A Rehearsal Dinner at Gratitude & Grace

A Long-Awaited First Visit

There are some places that you hear about long before you ever set foot there. For me, Gratitude & Grace was one of those places.

Nestled just outside Ithaca—close enough to be convenient, but surrounded by open fields that make it feel miles away from everything—

this rustic barn venue had been on my radar for quite a while. Couples kept mentioning it in their wedding inquiries. Friends in the music scene spoke highly of it. And finally, I had the chance to experience it firsthand when my jazz trio played a rehearsal dinner there this past week.

The evening was nothing short of magical. With the sun beginning to set and a light summer breeze flowing through the trees, we set up just outside the large event tent. Saxophone, upright bass, and guitar—our usual trio—blended beautifully into the warm air, providing a laid-back, elegant backdrop for guests as they mingled and dined.

The Venue: Spacious, Rustic, and Warm

Gratitude & Grace is one of those rare venues that feels like a destination even if you’re local. It’s only about 15 minutes from downtown Ithaca, but it feels like you’ve stepped into a serene retreat far from the bustle of town. As you drive up, you’re greeted by a sprawling property with wide-open fields, a classic red barn, a charming old farmhouse, and even a pool tucked away behind the main buildings. The land itself is spacious, yet cozy. There’s something about the way the buildings are positioned and the landscaping that makes it feel both

expansive and intimate at the same time.

The barn is a beautiful structure—rustic in all the right ways. It’s large, with high ceilings and wooden beams that carry the history of the property. Yet despite its size, it feels warm and inviting. The property has a kind of lived-in elegance. It’s not overly polished or sterile; it feels real. It’s a place where people can be comfortable while still celebrating something very special.

Music in the Open Air

We performed just outside the tent, which was set up adjacent to the barn. It was a perfect location—guests could hear us clearly as they

gathered around tables and strolled across the lawn, yet we never overpowered the conversations. That’s one of the things I love about this

trio setup: it offers atmosphere and artistry without overwhelming the room (or in this case, the field).

There was a moment, as twilight settled in and the sky shifted to deep blue, when everything seemed to click. The lights inside the tent started to glow more noticeably, the laughter of friends and family became more animated, and the notes from the saxophone caught just a hint of that evening breeze. It reminded me why I love what I do. Playing jazz in a setting like that—natural, joyful, heartfelt—is one of the purest forms of expression I know.

Kind and Capable Staff

The staff at Gratitude & Grace were also a joy to work with. Helpful, communicative, and clearly invested in making the event run smoothly, they allowed us the space and support to do what we do best. You can always tell when a venue is run with care, and this one absolutely is.

From parking to power access to coordinating with other vendors, everything was handled with professionalism and ease.

One of the surprising things about this gig was realizing just how many couples have been reaching out to me lately who are planning their weddings at Gratitude & Grace. It seems to be gaining momentum as a go-to spot for couples looking for a mix of rustic charm, natural beauty, and flexibility. And after being there, I can see why.

As a musician who has played at many wedding venues across upstate New York, I can say that this one has a unique energy. There’s space to breathe—both physically and creatively. Whether you’re a couple dreaming up your ideal wedding weekend or a performer hoping to contribute something meaningful to someone’s big day, the environment at Gratitude & Grace makes it easy to show up fully and give your best.

More Than a Venue—An Experience

I also appreciate how the property lends itself to multiple uses throughout the weekend. With accommodations on-site in the farmhouse and

“Love Shack,” couples can stay with their closest friends and family without having to shuttle back and forth. The outdoor areas are great for lawn games, cocktail hours, or just quiet walks. There’s even a hot tub and pool—little touches that turn the event into an experience.

Playing this rehearsal dinner was a reminder of how powerful music can be in shaping memories. Our trio didn’t just provide background sound—we became part of the emotional landscape of the evening. The bride’s father came over at one point, eyes a little misty, and thanked us for bringing such warmth to the event. Those are the moments you hold on to.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering hosting your wedding, rehearsal dinner, or private celebration at Gratitude & Grace, I can wholeheartedly recommend

it. And if you’re looking for live music that complements that atmosphere with sophistication, soul, and subtlety, I’d be honored to be part of your event.

To me, venues like this are more than just beautiful locations—they’re spaces where people come together to share milestones, express love, and make memories that last. I’m grateful to have been part of one such evening, and I look forward to many more nights of jazz under the stars at Gratitude & Grace.

 

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