Painless Rehearsal Tips!
Hello Gorgeous!
For all you folks out there who have be in a wedding, you understand the behind the scenes are stacked with LOTS of to do lists and “necessary beasts” that must be tended to. Fittings, tastings, and of course, the dreaded Rehearsal night! But we are here to let you know that this particular beast can be tamed!
When you hire a planner or coordinator, you are hiring the expertise of how to make sure all of the bases are covered for your wedding, INCLUDING your rehearsal. Here are a few easy ways to make your rehearsal as painless (and quick) as possible!
1. Who needs to be there?
Often times, we find couples who aren’t sure who they need to invite to the rehearsal. In today’s wedding world, the rehearsal dinner has a wide variety of shapes and sizes. However, wedding rehearsals need only the folks actually in the wedding to attend.
That means, you, your fiance, the family members that are proceeding in the ceremony and your wedding party only. When too many rehearsal dinner guests are milling about during the rehearsal, things can take longer due to attention spans and distractions.
2. What about the details?
Throughout the planning process, you’ve hopefully worked hard on making sure the beauty comes through in your details of the day. However, when it comes to the ceremony, the details that matter most are in the words. Practicing the ceremony or your vows can and should be done, however, we suggest doing so privately or with your officiant. Keeping “the special” a surprise for the next day is important. If you practice the whole ceremony the day before, with the same people, in the same place, we believe some of the magic is lost. So let us focus on the logistics of how the day will work and let the loving words shine the next day.
3. How long will it take?
Once the bridesmaids and groomsmen know where they are standing and grandparents know where they are sitting, the “hard part” is out of the way. Most wedding rehearsals are easy enough that you only have to go through the motions once, maybe twice. When you are planning your rehearsal dinner, it is best to allot an hour for the rehearsal. This should allow for a few minutes buffer at the beginning (for any late comers) and even some extra time if Aunt Suzy wants to practice one more time. As we like to say, “It’s just walkin’, folks. It’s not rocket science.”
4. What about ceremonies with a little “Extra”?
You’ve all heard about ceremonies that have a little extra flare to them, and trust us, we’ve seen them all. You know, the ones with live animals or children involved. OR The ones with guests who read passages or sing songs. OR The ones with a LOT of people involved. These rehearsals may require a little more tender love and care. But rest assured, your planner/coordinator will take the time required to make sure everyone is comfortable with when they are expected to do what.
5. What if a groomsman or grandmother cannot make the rehearsal?
Don’t you worry! We will be sure to find them the next day well before “Go Time” to let them know what they need to know.
6. Should ushers attend the rehearsal?
Nope. An usher’s job is kinda hard to practice without guests. Just make sure your ushers arrive a bit before the wedding and have them meet with your coordinator/planner. We’ll make sure they get the full Ushering 101 then!
Wedding rehearsals may seem daunting or confusing, but to your planner/coordinator, they are another part of the puzzle. We have ways of alleviating the pain or tensions that may arise. The night before your wedding day should be fun and relaxing. So sit back and trust that you are in good hands!
Kirby and Kevin’s Gorgeous Vendor Team
Planning | Infinity Events
Photography | Jon Sharman Photography
Videography | Erwin Media
Venue| Hillwood at Davie’s Manor
Rentals | White Door Events
Linen | Elegant Chair Solutions
Ceiling Decor| Fedex Flower Guy
Catering & Bar | Fascinating Catering
Baker | Cakes by Carolyn
Band | The Soul Shockers
Florist | Holliday Flowers & Events
Makeup & Hair | Beauty by Brady