A question I see pop up in the wedding groups often: is a rehearsal a must? Well, depends on what you’re asking. Do you need a rehearsal? Or a rehearsal dinner? While they are traditionally combined into one event, they are two different activities.
The short answer that I partially advise against? No. Rehearsals and rehearsal dinners are not required. This comes with a big BUT. But… if you skip at least the rehearsal portion, you risk you and your wedding party looking awkward and out of sync during those trips up and down the aisle. You also risk having a wedding party that doesn’t know where to stand at the altar, causing your photos to look like a 2nd grade recess line that everyone was refusing to cooperate for. Practice makes perfect for all involved!
Quick rehearsal Q & A:
Q: Does my rehearsal have to be at the ceremony venue?
A: Nope! Anywhere that has space for the wedding party to stand at a make-believe altar will work! Your back yard, a parking lot, a public park… take your pick!
Q: Does my officiant have to be present for the rehearsal?
A: Professional officiants can walk into any ceremony with 20 minutes until start time and know exactly what to do with little guidance. If a family member or friend is performing the ceremony and has never acted as an officiant previously, yes, do include them in the rehearsal.
(Hint from a pro: make sure they know to move out of the way for your kiss at the end- it makes for a much better photo!)
Q: What exactly do we do at the rehearsal?
A: Practice the following: wedding party line up, speed at which they walk down the aisle, where and how far apart to stand at the altar, how to hold bouquets/what to do with hands (I advise: bridesmaids- fist holding bouquet is just below belly button with other hand clasped over top, groomsmen- hands clasped in front), full run through of ceremony if officiant it a first-timer, kiss at the end, how to depart altar and walk back down aisle (tip: do not gather at the end of the aisle- it blocks photographers shot). No joke, practice the kiss!
Q: Do we have to host a rehearsal dinner?
A: Ultimately, no (but even a casual gathering is appreciated by your wedding party). The dinner portion is to thank your wedding party and parents for participating in your big day, as well as for members of the bridal party that have never met, to get acquainted. If the budget is tight, a cookout, pizza party, etc. will work perfectly.
Q: Who is invited to the rehearsal and dinner?
A: Traditionally, the rehearsal is only those that are taking an active part in the wedding ceremony, as well as any siblings (if not in the wedding party) and possibly grandparents. Ultimately, anyone outside the wedding party is at your discretion.
Helping YOU say ‘I-DO’,
Your WedUcator