The Wedding Rehearsal - who should attend and why

I’m often asked by my clients who should attend the wedding rehearsal.  The short answer is anyone who has a role in the actual wedding ceremony but I thought I should elaborate a little more.

Bride & Groom:  Of course, you two are a given for attending the rehearsal since you are a key component to the ceremony.  You will need to practice the processional, being given away, when to hand off the bouquet, etc.

Grandparents and Parents of the Bride & Groom:  They will also need to practice their entrance for the ceremony, lighting the unity candle (if applicable), where to sit once down the aisle, etc.

Wedding Party:  Your wedding party consists of maid/matron of honor(s), bridesmaids, best man, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers, etc.  They are your supporting cast and will also need to practice walking down the aisle (together or separately), where to stand, the recessional, etc.

Officiant:  The person who will marry you should attend the rehearsal.  They will need to know how they are walking in and with whom (groom and best man, groom, best man & groomsmen, etc.).  They will be able to explain various points in the ceremony to the bride and groom based on your ceremony program.

Singers & Musicians:  They should attend the rehearsal for a couple of reasons.  You and your wedding party will want to practice walking to the actual music you’ll walk to for the processional.  The soloist or singers will have the opportunity to sing and get comfortable with the musical accompaniment and sound system.

Readers:  While their role may seem smaller in comparison to those listed above, they still should attend the rehearsal.  They will need to get comfortable with the microphone and sound system as well as know where to sit to easily make their way to the front to read a scripture or poem. 

Hostesses & Ushers:  They usually greet your guests, hand out programs, seat guests, etc.  While this probably doesn’t require much direction, it’s nice for them to attend the rehearsal so that they know exactly where to be, what to do and the tasks you’ve chosen for them.