Its not unusual these days to have a small wedding unlike the large traditional ones
, so one question you need to ask yourself before the big day is: do we need to have a wedding rehearsal? Wedding rehearsals are not for everyone, most times it is better to have them but there are many cases where they are not required.
It is recommended to have a wedding rehearsal if you have a large wedding party (or a small one but its not as necessary) or if children are involved in the ceremony. Keep in mind that a rehearsal may not stop any unwanted behaviour; however it will allow things to run as smooth as possible then how it would have run without one.
The first thing to practice is grouping everyone together and telling each attendant where they need to stand (make sure they are facing everyone no one wants to see backs!). It is ok if people are missing, just make sure to leave a space and inform them before the day. Once everyone is aware of their position, practice the recessional. Usually the bride and groom leave first then followed by any children (flower girls then ringbearers). The bridesmaids and groomsmen are the final part of the wedding party to leave (begin with the inside pair and finish with the outside pair). While you are practising all of this, keep in mind that you dont want anyone blocking the view of the bride and groom for their wedding photos.
Here are a few other things to keep in mind about your wedding rehearsal:
If you need to calm your nerves a bit before the big day, having a wedding rehearsal is always a good thing to do.
Never say your vows! You dont want to spoil an intimate moment with your betrothed.
If you are going to have a wedding rehearsal book in advance you need your celebrant available as well as your venue (dont fret though, you can do a rehearsal at home too).
In short, having a wedding rehearsal isnt a must, but if you have a large wedding party it is always better to control the amount of surprises you may have on your special day!