Traditionally wedding rehearsals are held the night before the wedding itself and is a great way for the two families and bridal party to get acquainted if they don’t already know each other. Another benefit to rehearsals is that it can help to alleviate any nerves; and make everyone invited feel comfortable. Whether it’s formal or an informal setting, really depends on the style of the couple, but it’s part of the wedding celebration altogether. However there are some things that need to be accomplished at the rehearsal, here is what you need to make sure happens!

1. Mix and Mingle

If the rehearsal dinner is a larger affair, there should be some time for the families and bridal party to meet and socialize. As previously mentioned, if the families have not yet had the opportunity to get to know each other, the rehearsal dinner is a great occasion to do so. Similarly, it member of the bridal party are not from the same group of friends, it’s nice for them to bond as well. This is also important for the soon to be newlyweds to spend time with everyone since the wedding day/night will be exhausting.

2. The Toast

Wedding etiquette dictates that the host of the rehearsal dinner (usually the father of the groom or both parents) make a toast to the soon to be daughter in law and her family. Afterward, the groom then toasts to the hosts, guests and his bride. However it is quite common now that both the bride and groom decide to do the toast together.

3. The Gift Exchange

Now is a great time for the bride and groom to give the bridal party their gifts. This way it’s not in front of your entire guest list, you can have a few sentimental moments with them. As well, this is another opportune time if the bride and groom would like to give a little something to their parents or one another.

4. The Ceremony Rehearsal

It’s not just about the dinner and wine surprise! This is pretty much the entire point of having the “rehearsal” anything…to rehearse! So at this point, the bridal party should know what order they are walking down the aisle in, which translates to the order they are standing in at the altar. From there, this should also coincide with who they are paired with to walk back up the aisle with and in what order! As well, if there are any cultural traditions to be incorporated into the ceremony, everyone will need to know when that happens, who is involved and what they need to do and where they need to stand. You want the ceremony to be executed flawlessly so…rehearse! Until it’s perfect!

Don’t forget to have a great time, enjoy your dinner and company and then get some sleep since the day after is the BIG day!