How important is a rehearsal and what are the key elements that must be rehearsed?
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2 comments
Further to my last post, key elements that I think need to be rehearsed are as follows (but happy for others suggestions!)
Layout/ Choreography of ceremony-
• Where is the ceremony to take place? Is it the best spot? (Try to ensure guests won’t be looking into the sun)
• Who is standing where? (Bridal party, readers, celebrant etc)
Can be nice to place families/guests diagonally opposite the bride/ groom so they can see their faces during ceremony
Establish if bride and groom are happy for me to stand slightly back but closer to them during vows for support,
Order of flower girls/ bridesmaids entering venue/ Point in music to commence
Presentation of the bride- Practice so everyone is clear how it is to go, and clarify anything Dad/Brother/ whoever is presenting bride may be worried about.
For example-
Celebrant to indicate bride has arrived, all stand
Dad place left hand on navel when bringing bride up aisle
Bride thanks Dad
Groom thanks Dad
Mum to step forward and take off veil
Groom to take Bride’s hand into position
Celebrant to check they are ready to commence
• Double check and practise with music – to ensure it all works with timings
• Bring a copy of the readings so readers know when they are speaking, and they can practice where to stand/ perform their readings with the smaller crowd
• Rehearse the ring ceremony- again so that everyone is clear what hands the rings go on, and to lessen anxiety when the big moment arrives
• Let the groomsmen know if we will be moving the table and chairs to centre ‘stage’ for the signing of the register, and then when to move them back
• Double check colour scheme and what they/ you are wearing, and any remaining finer details- for example- what is the back-up plan for bad weather? Any recent family rifts you need to be across for sensitivity
But welcome any other things you think are useful to cover off! :)
-Jess
I feel strongly about having rehearsals. I always say to my couples that it is not only useful to help them feel more comfortable on the day, but alsonice for their their parents/ wedding party/ readers so they know what they are doing and can feel more relaxed on the day.
Finally, it can be a great chance to catch up with everyone before the big day arrives, and even divvy out last minute jobs!
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