Why you should have a wedding rehearsal

Credit: Jaine Briscoe-Price Photography

We spoke to Heather Bartsch from Your Choice Ceremonies and asked for her advice on having a wedding rehersal.

Why a wedding rehearsal is the secret to a stress-free ceremony
Make your big day unforgettable with an Independent Celebrant who plans every detail – right down to the perfect ring exchange.

Is there any point in having a wedding rehearsal?
As an Independent Celebrant, I believe a wedding rehearsal is one of the most valuable parts of your wedding preparation. That’s why it’s included in my package – it ensures everything runs smoothly and feels relaxed.

Here’s why I strongly recommend it:

Calm those nerves
Even though most people have attended a wedding in the past, not everyone has played a key role in one. Standing in front of guests, reading aloud, or walking down the aisle can feel daunting. A rehearsal helps everyone feel confident and prepared.

Everyone knows what to do
From the entrance music to the order of the procession, the kiss, and the presentation, we’ll run through every detail. Is the music long enough? Who walks first? Where will people sit or stand? Families can be complicated, so reserving front-row seats and confirming where immediate family members will be is essential.

Practice makes perfect
Sometimes, the ring bearer can be more nervous than the couple! The pressure is on – no one wants to let you down. Practicing the handover of rings and how to place them on your fingers for that perfect photo makes a big difference. If you’re having a reading or poem, your readers also get their moment to rehearse – knowing where to stand and when their reading happens ensures everything flows beautifully.

Mini ceremonies matter
If you’re including a hand-tying, candle lighting, or another unique ritual, the rehearsal is the time to perfect it. One of my couples chose a whiskey blending ceremony. During the rehearsal, family and friends added their whiskey to the barrel, creating a heartfelt prelude to the main event.

Add excitement before the big day
If you’re setting up at your venue the day before, it’s the perfect opportunity for a rehearsal. It often becomes a relaxed, fun, intimate pre-wedding celebration for those closest to you, and many couples follow it with a family meal. If the venue isn’t available, don’t worry – I’ve held rehearsals in homes, pub car parks, and even via video call. Whatever works for you, we’ll make it happen.

Final thought
A rehearsal isn’t just a run-through; it’s peace of mind. It ensures your ceremony feels effortless and joyful. And because it’s included in my package, there’s no reason to skip it. Let’s make your wedding day as perfect as your love story.

To find out more about Your Choice Ceremonies, visit yourchoiceceremonies.co.uk