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The “big day” is approaching and you are probably focusing your time
and energy on making it perfect. But, don’t forget to plan and prepare
for you wedding rehearsal. It is important to recognize the details you
will want to iron out at the rehearsal so your wedding day runs smoothly.
Know What Will Be Said
Meet with your officiant plenty of times before the wedding and discuss in
detail what will be said at the wedding ceremony. Even the smallest
detail---saying, “I do”, or “I will”, may make a difference to
you. It’s important to finalize as many details about the ceremony as
possible so you can concentrate on rehearsing, rather than having to make
decisions. Also, it is important that you and your officiant are on the
same wavelength with how the ceremony will flow. All of these details
should be discussed prior to the rehearsal, as well.
Pick A Good Time & Place
Many people choose the evening before the ceremony to rehearse. Usually
this ends up to be a Friday night, which is probably convenient for most
people. However, if you choose to rehearse on a weeknight, double check
with your families and wedding party members. Many people have family
obligations in the evenings, or have to work early the next day. Confirm
that your time will work for the majority of the people before you book
the time.
If you are having the traditional dinner after you rehearsal, try to pick
a restaurant or location close to the rehearsal site. It will save on
time, and be convenient for most people. It also makes it much easier to
form a “car chain”. Many people may not know where the restaurant is
located. The closer it is, the easier it is to follow other cars or
carpool.
Make Introductions
It is likely that many people will be meeting for the first time at the
wedding rehearsal. Make a point to introduce everyone. Nothing is worse
for an out-of-town bridesmaid than spending a weekend with a bunch of
strangers! To help these strangers remember each other, try to give a good
introduction. Rather than, “Harry, meet Sally.” Try, “Harry, this is
Sally. She is from Seattle and she is a stewardess.” It makes it easy
for Harry to remember---Sally, Seattle, stewardess—when he sees her
next.
Pick Partners
Don’t wait until practice time to decide who will be walking down the
aisle with whom. This should be decided beforehand. If possible, put some
thought into your decisions. If people don’t get along with each other,
or may look strange walking together, don’t pair them up.
Take Care Of The Little Ones
Try to get the children to the rehearsal ahead of time to explain to them
what is going on. It may be their first wedding, and they may not
understand what a wedding is. Try to talk to them about the event and
explain what their important job is. If they are not standing for the
ceremony, be sure to show them where to go after their job is done. Have
them walk down the aisle a few times before the “crowd” gets there to
practice with them.
Bring Props
Bring your bouquets, ring bearer pillow, flower girl basket, and any other
“props” that will play an important part of the ceremony. The children
will need them for practice, and you will need to practice the moments
when you need to hand your bouquet and/or gloves to your honor attendant.
Reminders
Before you let anyone leave, remind them again of the times they need to
be available the next day and what they need to bring with them. If you
have time beforehand, you can make a schedule and a short list for your
family and attendants. Also, refer them to a person they can contact if
they have any questions or problems on the wedding day. Reiterate that
their contact person should not be the bride or groom!
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