To Rehearse or not to Rehearse!

Recently, in a response to a proposal I sent listing my services, a bride asked “Why do I need a rehearsal?” The couple had five bridesmaids and groomsmen!

A rehearsal the day before the wedding is necessary for several key reasons, especially with a large wedding party:

Coordination and Flow: It's too chaotic to line up everyone and give instructions on the day of the event. The rehearsal ensures everyone knows where to go, how to stand lined up, and what to do during the processional and recessional.  It calms nerves.

Detailed Instructions: I cover specific roles and actions, such as where bridesmaids are to place their bouquets as they walk, who holds the rings, who signs the license, fluffing the dress at the arch, and where the parents sit etc..

Familiarity: I hold a meeting at the beginning to introduce myself and my Lead to everyone and then introduce the Wedding Party, the Venue Manager, the Officiant, and the Parents.  This way everyone gets to know who is who.  Do we have a singer, or someone reading something special?  They would be included as well.

Key Moments: I discuss specific moments like walking back down the aisle after the ceremony and stopping for the photographer to get that wonderful shot with everyone in the background looking at the couple.  Should you kiss again, dip, or twirl?  I let them know we will give them five minutes alone after the ceremony with their favorite drink to toast each other privately.

Music: I review the music plan (one song for everyone, or separate songs for the wedding party/parents, the couple, and the recessional). Some brides want to enter on a specific section of the music.  This is key!

Officiant Support: If the Officiant is not present, I play that role to run the rehearsal.

Other: I go over the decor for the following day, as well as let the Groom and his men know where to be on the wedding day, 30 minutes prior to the ceremony.

Of course there are exceptions to this such as only the couple walking down the aisle or just a Maid of Honor and Best Man standing up for the couple.

Ultimately, a rehearsal is pertinent so that everyone is comfortable and the wedding day will go smoothly.

Cover photo by Honey Lens Imaging