Should you have a Rehearsal for your Ceremony?
There are so many things to plan and organise for your special day – how do you make sure that everything will be just right on the day?
For the ceremony itself, there are many benefits of having a rehearsal:
Knowing how long it will take to ‘walk down the aisle’.
Are your music selections appropriate in relation to the time it takes for the entrance, signing of paperwork, the exit, and any other places in the ceremony that you will have music.
Anyone doing a reading will have an opportunity to practise, will know how they are being introduced and where to do their reading from.
The attendants know where to stand and when they need to do any extras, like holding a bouquet or handing over rings.
When it comes to signing any paperwork that is part of the ceremony, you’ll know the order of signing and who should stand where.
Ideally, a rehearsal should be held a day or two before the ceremony. It is best to have the rehearsal at the same venue and at the same time of day that your ceremony will be held, but this is sometimes not practical. If you are unable to hold your rehearsal in the same venue, any park or area with space is a good alternative.
Anyone involved in the ceremony should come along to the rehearsal so there are no surprises on the day.
Your photographer may want to be there to identify any key moments of the ceremony that they should capture. They may even be able to suggest improved placement to get the most of the lighting.
Having had a rehearsal, you’ll be more relaxed and able to enjoy the moment fully.