Are you on the fence about holding a wedding rehearsal? We get it, gathering your wedding party the night before the big day may seem like an old tradition, or something that isn’t necessarily needed anymore. Wedding rehearsals are a good opportunity to practice your ceremony, enjoy time with loved ones, and ensure that everyone knows their role for the wedding day. We highly suggest that you do some sort of wedding rehearsal, whether it’s a quick pep talk and practice in the hotel lobby, or a full blown rehearsal and dinner at the venue. Set aside time and first, rehearse. 

#01: Where to Hold it? 
Some venues will give couples the opportunity to hold the wedding rehearsal at the venue. If you want to plan in advance to have a wedding rehearsal, talk to the on-site coordinator or select a package that includes the venue the day before. But, depending on booking and when the wedding falls, there may not be an opportunity to practice at the venue. If you are able to rehearse at the wedding venue, try and practice at the same time your ceremony will be the next day. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, you’ll be able to determine any kinks that mother nature may send your way – such as lighting, heat, or shadows from the tree line. You will be able to make adjustments as needed to ensure that your photographer can get the best shots and you and your guests will be comfortable throughout.                                               

#02: What to Practice? 
First, you’ll want to check with your wedding planner or coordinator and see if they will be able to coordinate your rehearsal. Chances are, they have created a ceremony timeline and have all the details worked out. You will want to practice whatever your plan is for the ceremony. You’ll want at least an hour blocked out to practice. We suggest you ask your officiant to attend to run through the ceremony. You will want to practice the ceremony, from the processional and recessional at least twice. We definitely don’t want any bridesmaids or groomsmen lost on where to stand during the ceremony. Be sure to use cues on when the next couple should walk out, walk in, and answer any lingering questions from the wedding party. As long as you practice the following, you should be ready for your wedding ceremony! 

• Processional

• Who is walking with who

• What are the music or visual cues on when to walk (ex. Walk when the couple before hits the middle of the aisle etc.) 

• Where to stand when you reach the altar

• If you have an outdoor wedding, and it’s allowed, think about using golf tees to keep your place! 

• How to face your body during the ceremony 

• Who will hold the bride’s flowers, be in charge of fixing her veil or dress

• Ceremony: 

• While you don’t need to practice the speaking parts, it’s best to run through the ceremony to know who is doing what 

• When to hold hands 

• When to say “I do” 

• Don’t forget to practice the first KISS!

• Recessional

• The couple will always exit first!

• Who will walk out next and in what order? 

• Practice waiting for the cue to walk 

• How you will walk out 

• Have your officiant leave last and make any announcements needed 

#03: It’s a Wrap!
Once you and your wedding party have practiced walking in, where to stand, and walking out, discuss where and with whom your marriage license will be signed. Typically, this is done directly after the ceremony. Ensure that the individuals who will serve as your witness know where to go immediately after the ceremony.You definitely don’t want to be searching for people post ceremony to sign. After the rehearsal, tradition is that there is a rehearsal dinner to follow. This allows guests to linger, gather, and celebrate (without celebrating too much) the night before. 

#04: The Dinner
There are many different levels to the rehearsal dinner. The rehearsal dinner typical directly follows the practice time. Ensure that guests know where to meet, and travel time is accounted for. Select a space that can accommodate your guests and don’t be afraid to create a casual atmosphere! We’ve had clients hold rehearsal dinners at fun, outdoor patio spaces, or even in the comforts of your own home. Do not feel the need to invite ALL the guests, you only need to invite your wedding party and then you can invite any additional guests from there. Keep your dinner on a time frame, you don’t want to be partying way into the night (you’ve got a wedding in the morning). Use the dinner to welcome your guests for the weekend, meet with family and friends, and mingle and chat.

The wedding night and rehearsal should be meaningful but quick. You don’t want to spend your night practicing, especially with all of the buzz and excitement for tomorrow (rest is important!). So, here is our suggested timeline, adjust the hours as needed, but this is the time frame we suggest to plan your perfect rehearsal dinner. 

5:00 Wedding Party and Important Members Arrive 
5:20 Line up to practice
5:30 Begin Wedding Rehearsal
6:30 Wedding Rehearsal Ends       
6:30 - 7:00 Travel to Dinner Site
7:00: Dinner with Wedding Party and Important Members
9:00: Hugs and Goodbye! 
10:00: GET SLEEP!     

We love attending wedding rehearsals and helping our couples prepare for the big day. If you are in need of support with planning and executing your wedding rehearsal, or even day of, please reach out to a member of our team today! 

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.