What Actually Happens at a Wedding Ceremony Rehearsal?

Your wedding ceremony may only last 30 minutes, but there’s a lot that goes into making those moments feel effortless. That’s where the rehearsal comes in. Here are a few commonly asked questions and key elements that make rehearsal to ceremony a success. 

Why have a wedding rehearsal?

We encourage couples to have a rehearsal so that all those involved are more comfortable and less stressed when it comes time for the ceremony. Without a rehearsal, the couple and officiant may know what to expect, but other important people involved in the wedding ceremony are left with a lot of questions. 

Who should attend?

Anyone involved in the ceremony should try to attend the rehearsal. This can include:

• The couple
• The officiant
• The wedding party
• The parents or grandparents who will be in the processional
• Pets that are involved (and their handlers)
• Flower girls and ring bearers
• Readers or those involved in religious elements
• Optional – DJ or person queueing the music

Aim for a day and time where the most people can attend, and have stand-ins for those who can’t make it. 

When to have a rehearsal?

At Barnwood Events, we try to schedule the rehearsal onsite the day before the ceremony. If schedules don’t align due to other weddings or events, we will make accommodations earlier in the week, or the morning of the wedding. 

Where should the rehearsal be?

When possible, it’s great to have the rehearsal right where the ceremony will take place so that those standing up know where they will stand and can have a visual of what the ceremony will really look like. If not available, practicing the processional offsite is helpful too, so that the wedding party has an idea of what will take place at the ceremony. 

Photos by Dave Wood

What will be covered?

The rehearsal typically lasts about half an hour, and though it won’t go through the entire ceremony, the big moments will be covered. 

It starts by lining up those who will be standing near the couple so they understand where they will be standing during the wedding ceremony. This is a good time to show the wedding party how far they should be spaced apart, and where the couple should be centered. 

You will also practice walking in and out so that everyone – including family, flower girls, and pets – know their order and when they should begin walking. This is also when your coordinator will determine when to cue the DJ for song changes and big moments. 

The officiant will likely not read the ceremony word for word, but it’s a good time to iron out some big details. 

• Hugs and greetings with parents at the altar
• Handing off the bouquet
• Retrieving rings
• Unity ceremony logistics
• Other religious elements
• Readings
• Recessing after the pronouncement 

Your group will practice recessing down the aisle, and then final questions and announcements are covered while you have the whole group together. 

Ready for Wedding Day

After a successful rehearsal, the details are ironed out and everyone is feeling ready for a beautiful ceremony. If you’re still looking for the right place for your ceremony and reception, consider Barnwood Events. We’d love to give you a tour.