Cornerstone Chapel

"The Wedding Officiant"

Weddings

Baptism Baby Dedication

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        Getting married is like anything else --- it takes practice to make it perfect.  We are not born with this innate instinct that tells us when we are supposed to walk down the aisle, but rather we must cultivate this talent through the rehearsal of our roles.

        The traditional wedding rehearsal takes place the day before the wedding.  Everyone involved in the wedding ceremony should attend, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents, the flower girl and ring bearer, wedding officiant, musicians, readers and of course the bride and groom.

        It is smart to have the wedding consultant and videographer attend as well.  The wedding consultant provides a resource in case any discrepancies develop about who should go where, and when.  The videographer will be able to get a better idea of the layout of the church and other details by attending, and can also get some "bloopers" from the rehearsal.

        Go through the entire ceremony a couple of times to make sure that everyone understands their roles and where they are supposed to be.  Give the flower girl and ring bearer time to walk up and down the aisle alone so that they get used to having all eyes on them.  If the musicians can't attend your rehearsal, try to have a recording of the  processional and recessional music so that everyone can become familiar with the songs and learn to recognize their cues.

        With all of that walking up and down the aisle, your guests will have worked up a hearty appetite.  The rehearsal is usually followed by a dinner hosted by the groom's parents.  The dinner is held near the ceremony site, either in a private room or in a restaurant, and should include everyone who attended the rehearsal.

        Book your rehearsal dinner site as soon as possible, especially if you expect a large group.  You may want to use the rehearsal dinner as a "trial" reception, and ask your caterer to cook the dinner.

        You want the rehearsal dinner to be every bit as delicious as your reception, especially because this will be your "last supper" with your family and closest friends as a single woman.  As with your reception hall, sample the food before you hire anybody.  Make sure that the proprietors are working out of a licensed kitchen, and have the proper insurance.  Also find out how many servers will be assigned to your group.

        At the rehearsal dinner, the best man traditionally makes his first toast to the bride and groom.  This is also a good opportunity for the couple to present their appreciation gifts to the bridal party.

        Cherish this dinner as quiet time with your family and friends.  The excitement of the next day will just about wipe out any quiet time that you may want to spend with them, and then you are going to be whisked off to your honeymoon.  Take this time to thank all the major players in your life for their concern and time.

        The tradition of the wedding rehearsal is a very important part of your wedding, because it give you the time to spend with just your family and closest friends.  The practice will help alleve the anxiety you will feel on your wedding day, and the time spent with loved ones will make the process of preparing for your wedding that much more special.