Your big day is almost here and your checklist is getting smaller. Oh wait.... you completely forgot about the wedding rehearsal! What actually goes on at a rehearsal? The reason for having rehearsal is to practice how to walk up and down the aisle, where to stand, and what to say. When you mix in your bridal party, especially if it is larger, this can get complicated. Here are five tips to make it a success.

1. Who needs to attend? In short, everyone who will be a part of your ceremony. This includes anyone walking down the aisle (parents, grandparents, bridal party), the officiant, readers, musicians and even those fury friends if you are having them be a part of the ceremony. While you don't have to go through the ceremony word for word, be sure to have everyone practice their parts for the ceremony: where the parents/grandparents are sitting, where the bridal party should stand, the hand off if someone is walking the bride down, where the readers should speak from. The ushers should also attend and know their duties: if they are handing out programs, escorting anyone down the aisle, opening the reveal doors or dismissing guests.

   

   
   

2. What about the ceremony music? Many couples who get married here, hire their dj who is doing the reception, also for the ceremony. Normally they do not attend the rehearsal so bring a blutooth speaker and play the songs you will be using at the ceremony. This is very important, especially if someone is walking down the aisle at a certain part in the song. Also, be sure to touch base with the dj before the ceremony to double check they have the correct songs and the order they will be played in. If you are having musical instruments, try to get the players to attend rehearsal.

   

   
   

3. Are you having a Unity Ceremony? While this may be only a small part of your ceremony, it is still important. The most popular unity ceremony has been the cord of three strands or mixing sand. If you are doing the cords - communicate with your fiance on the process of how to braid -- you'd be surprised how many couples have not done it before. Make sure you have all your supplies and discuss where they will displayed or stored. If you are lighting candles - don't forget the lighter!

   

   
   

4. Will there be a receiving line? Over the years we have seen both options. Wedding etiquette still says that couples should greet their guests after the ceremony. Others choose to forgo this and move right into photos. Big tip: If you choose not to have a receiving line, have your officiant make an announcement at the end telling the guests to move right into cocktail hour. Also, be sure to make a point to talk to your guests at the reception, otherwise years down the road "Great Aunt Edna" will make it known that she didn't get to even talk to you at the wedding.

   

   
   

5. What else needs to be done at rehearsal? - Your bridal party may or may not have all gotten together before this day so be sure to make introductions if needed (before starting rehearsal). Be sure to go over the timeline with everyone for the next day. Start with what time they need to arrive, what time they need to be dressed, if any photos will be taken prior to the ceremony and if they are needed for photos after the ceremony. Many of our couples bring in their clothing to the barn already on Friday. This gives you a chance to make sure all the pieces (shoes, socks, jewerly, etc) are ready for the next day.

   

After rehearsal, give announcements where the dinner will be held. The majority of our weddings also have the rehearsal dinner in our separate room in the barn. This convenience is nice as any last minute wedding day prep can be done before leaving for the evening.

Final Thoughts

Ceremony rehearsal can seem overwhelming, but if you are organized, it goes much smoother. For weddings held here at Eron's Event Barn, we help with or often times lead practice. If the officiant is familiar with wedding ceremonies, we let them take the lead. Have a written sheet that is given to either us or the officiant ahead of time with the names of everyone who is part of the ceremony -- that way you don't have to be in charge and can be in the moment instead.