The Importance Of The Wedding Rehearsal
If you have been wondering why a wedding rehearsal is important, just compare it to putting on a play. In order for the actors to know their parts and where to stand, they have many rehearsals to perfect their performance. Though a wedding isn’t as big a production as a full length play, knowing what is expected of all participants is vital for the wedding itself to go smoothly.
Who to Invite to the Wedding Rehearsal
Who you decide to invite to your wedding rehearsal depends upon how large a gathering you want it to be. Parents of both the bride and groom should attend, as well as the wedding party, the minister performing the ceremony and if you have employed a wedding planner or coordinator, they too should receive an invitation to join the wedding rehearsal and dinner. It is up to you if you want to invite out of town guests and other relatives. Remember, if cost is a concern, you don’t have to invite non-participants.
Who Hosts the Wedding Rehearsal?
Traditionally, it was the responsibility of the groom’s parents to host the wedding rehearsal dinner. Nowadays, many conventions are forgotten and the host of the rehearsal dinner can be anyone involved in the wedding such as the attendants, the bride and groom themselves, or an out of town relative that is planning on attending. There are no longer hard and fast rules as to who pays what in modern weddings.
Is a Wedding Rehearsal Necessary?
Going over the ceremony and learning what is to be expected of each of the participants is important so that the ceremony goes smoothly. Of course a wedding rehearsal dinner is not necessary, but it is a welcome respite from all the planning and work everyone has put into the wedding.
Having your loved ones who helped you plan your wedding in all its different phases is a wonderful way to celebrate the fact that all plans have been finalized and everyone can take a deep breath and relax until the big day.
Where Does the Wedding Rehearsal Take Place?
Generally a wedding rehearsal is held at the venue where you are to be married. This is not always possible as it may be used for something else when you are planning the rehearsal. As long as all parties are present, the minister will lead you through the steps and what will be expected so that all members are well versed in what they will be doing when the big day arrives.
Your wedding rehearsal is a joyful time when gifts are exchanged between bride, groom and their attendants and sometimes between the bride and groom as well. It is a wonderful opportunity for you to thank everyone for their help during the planning phase of your wedding.
