Wedding Rehearsals & Rehearsal Dinners

Traditionally, the wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner are held the night before the wedding; however, that is not always possible, depending on the availability of the venue where the ceremony is to take place. In fact, this might actually work in the couple's favor. There are a few reasons why holding the rehearsal 2 nights in advance may work out better than the night before:

1. Reduces Stress: By having a day in between the wedding rehearsal and the big day is a HUGE stress reducer. There is a lot that goes on at the rehearsal and by having that extra day it allows for the bride and groom to take a moment to breathe and absorb the idea that their day is finally here. This way they can enjoy it that much more!

2: No Hangovers: This is such a fun and exciting time in your lives and

your family and friends want to celebrate with you. Sometimes they celebrate a little too much, resulting in a hungover bridal party. If you think that your friends and family will be getting their drink on at your rehearsal, you might want to consider hosting it 2 nights before the wedding so that there are no groomsman getting sick in the bushes at the gazebo. Not a pretty picture to paint, but it happens.

Other Wedding Rehearsal Tips:

1. Tell your participants 30 MINUTES EARLIER THAN THE ACTUAL SCHEDULED TIME! Believe me, it is inevitable that people are going to be late. It is better to have everyone show up early and start on time rather than start a half hour late. This is especially helpful if you have rehearsal dinner reservations at a restaurant.

2. Make sure you have the order of the processional down BEFORE the rehearsal. That way there is no confusion when everyone gets there. And no, your bridal party does NOT have to be lined up in order of height.

3. Make sure your officiant does NOT read the actual ceremony at the rehearsal. This is an emotional moment for everyone involved and it should be saved for the big day ONLY.

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Tips:

1. Rehearsal dinners do NOT have to be formal and expensive. If weather permits, a backyard BBQ or intimate dinner party at home is perfectly acceptable. You are spending enough on the wedding day so don’t feel obligated to spend a ton on the rehearsal.

2. There is no right or wrong as to who should be invited to the rehearsal dinner besides the bridal party and immediate family. Invite who you want to be there. It is a good idea to invite your out-of-towners, however, even if they are not in the wedding party. They will likely not have plans so I’m sure an invitation to the rehearsal dinner would be appreciated.

3. The rehearsal dinner is the perfect opportunity to thank your family and bridal party. If you have gifts for them this is the time to distribute them.

4. Get a good night’s sleep!