Wedding Rehearsal Guide: What You Need to Know Before the Big Day

Planning a wedding comes with a million moving parts, and the rehearsal is one of those little things that can make a big difference.

It’s the perfect chance to smooth out the ceremony flow, get everyone on the same page, and calm those last-minute nerves.

Whether you’re having a small elopement or a full wedding party, this quick guide will help you know what to expect — and how to make it run smoothly.

🕓 When Should You Schedule the Rehearsal?

Most rehearsals happen the day before the wedding, usually in the late afternoon or early evening.

This gives your wedding party a chance to walk through everything while it’s fresh, but not too close to the chaos of wedding morning.

Pro Tip:
If your venue is booked the night before or it’s a weekday ceremony, you might need to be flexible with the timing. Just be sure everyone essential can attend!

💍 Who Should Be at the Rehearsal?

Here’s who typically needs to be there:

  • The couple

  • Officiant (that’s me!)

  • Wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, etc.)

  • Anyone walking down the aisle (parents, flower kids, etc.)

  • Musicians or a DJ (optional but helpful)

  • Ceremony coordinator or planner

This ensures everyone knows where to stand, when to walk, and what happens when, which keeps the real day relaxed and flowing beautifully.

📋 What Happens During the Rehearsal?

Here’s what we’ll typically walk through:

  1. Where and how everyone enters

  2. Where to stand at the altar

  3. What to do with hands, flowers, etc.

  4. How and when to hand off vows or rings

  5. Any special ceremony elements (like unity rituals or readings)

  6. How to exit once you’re married! 🎉

We’ll usually run through it twice — once slowly and once more fluidly. That’s all it takes!

😬 Common Rehearsal Nerves (And Why You Don’t Need to Stress)

It’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed, but rehearsals are quick, casual, and actually pretty fun.

I’ll guide everyone with kindness, clarity, and a little humor so no one feels awkward or unsure.

Even if someone is running late or things feel a bit messy, don’t worry — your actual wedding day will come together beautifully.

💬 Do You Really Need a Rehearsal?

If you’re doing a simple elopement or private ceremony, a formal rehearsal might not be necessary.

But for weddings with multiple moving parts (like readings, a wedding party, or a longer procession), a short rehearsal is incredibly helpful.

Even 20 minutes can take the edge off and make the day feel less overwhelming for you and your crew.

🧡 Want Help Coordinating Your Rehearsal?

I don’t just officiate — I’m happy to help guide your rehearsal, too.
If you’d like me to walk your group through everything, just let me know when we schedule your ceremony.

👉 Contact Me About Your Ceremony
👉 See Wedding Ceremony Packages

📣 Final Tip

The rehearsal is about peace of mind, not perfection.

We’ll laugh, walk it out, and make sure your wedding day starts with confidence and connection.

Let’s make it beautiful.