Submitted by Anna Dukehart, The Oregon Golf Club

Your ceremony site or venue is booked. The bridal party and officiant are chosen. Now you need to make sure that you’re all prepped for the big day! Rehearsing the ceremony ahead of time is a great way to calm nerves and make sure everyone is on the same page. Here are a few FAQs about wedding rehearsals, complete with answers!

Why is a rehearsal important?

A rehearsal is the trial run for the main event, the big show, your wedding day. You wouldn’t act in the opening night of a play or give a speech without working out the kinks beforehand and your wedding ceremony is no different. You don’t want to walk down the aisle before your bridesmaids, or have a groomsman standing next to the Maid of Honor! It’s extremely important that you, your fiancée, and the bridal party know where they should be and at what time.

When should you have the rehearsal?

Typically a rehearsal is the day or night before the actual wedding day. Setting aside about an hour of time to do a few run-throughs with the bridal party and officiant will eliminate any surprises on your big day.

When should you speak to the venue about scheduling it?

I would highly recommend asking to schedule your rehearsal as soon as you book the ceremony site/venue. There is a very good chance that there is another wedding going on that weekend and other couples will be looking to reserve their rehearsal time as well. You don’t want to be stuck rehearsing several days before your wedding or at a time when not all participants can be there. Ask the venue when you can book the rehearsal, and if there are other groups rehearsing before or after you so that you know the timeframe you have to work within.

Who should run the rehearsal?

If you have hired a wedding coordinator, they will typically run most of the rehearsal, along with the officiant. If you do not have a coordinator, most likely the officiant can help guide everyone. Some venues also provide an on-site coordinator to organize the ceremony. Make sure the person running the rehearsal knows everyone in the bridal party and in what order they need to walk down the aisle. If you want any music playing during the ceremony, the timing of music and the bridal party walking down the aisle should be practiced as well.

Who should be present at the rehearsal?

Your entire bridal party, including the bridesmaids, groomsmen, ring bearer, and flower girl should be present at the rehearsal, as well as any parents and grandparents who are walking down the aisle. The officiant should be there as well to help to guide you through the rehearsal.

The most important thing to remember for a successful rehearsal: Relax! Don’t worry if you mess up your vows a few times or you trip walking down the aisle. That's what a rehearsal is for—to get out all of the minor hiccups before the big day. Even if those things happen during the real ceremony, don’t freak out—it’s normal. Just remember before you walk to take several deep breaths and look around! Everyone is there to celebrate you and your fiancée.