As a rule, you'll only have a wedding rehearsal if you're planning a church wedding ceremony. For a civil ceremony, the registrar will speak to everyone involved in the morning to ensure that they know what to say and where to stand. If you're having a wedding rehearsal, here's how to make the most of it...
Who attends your wedding rehearsal
Your vicar or priest will usually arrange your wedding rehearsal, which will take place a day or two before the actual wedding. Just the immediate bridal party need to attend, i.e. the bride and groom, the parents, the best man and groomsmen, and maid of honour and the bridesmaids. You may also want to invite anyone doing readings so that they know where they'll be standing on the day.Â
If your wedding photographer is local, they may want to attend your wedding rehearsal to get a better feel for space and decide where to arrange group shots.Â
Readings and vows
Now is a good time to practise reading some of your weddings vows. This will help to combat nerves and means you can get used to the volume of the church. Encourage any readers to try some of their readings so they're prepared for the big day.Â
After the wedding rehearsal
After the rehearsal, it's nice to take everyone out for a meal. This is a fun celebration and means everyone can get to know each other more. In the US this is referred to as the rehearsal dinner and is a wedding tradition. However, in the UK, proceedings are a little less formal. This is also a nice time to present gifts to your bridal party. It's more relaxed and you'll have more time than on the wedding morning.Â
Find out more about your church wedding ceremony here.Â