CRAWFORD, Texas (AP) -- The president's 1,600-acre ranch in Crawford, Texas, is all gussied up for this evening's wedding of Jenna Bush to long-time boyfriend Henry Hager.

President Bush will walk his daughter down the aisle before about 200 friends and family members in a very private outdoor ceremony.

The festivities got under way last night with a rehearsal dinner hosted by the groom's parents in the tourist town of Salado, Texas, about 54 miles from Crawford. There'll be a barbecue lunch today back at the ranch.

The father of the bride uses his weekend radio chat today to pay tribute to her and her mother, the first lady. Bush calls it "a joyous occasion" for the family and especially for Laura Bush. He notes that she'll spend Mother's Day weekend watching her daughter walk down the aisle.

The tiny town of Crawford is celebrating at a distance. A town statue has been decorated with a veil and bouquet. Souvenirs on sale include keychains and coffee mugs adorned with pictures of the bride and groom.