Top 5 Wedding Etiquette Rules You Should Not Skip
With more rules than ever before in our daily – and social – lives, if you are planning your wedding in times of post/current corona, you may be a little overwhelmed dealing with just how many rules there are to a wedding. Why in the world is wedding etiquette so important? What rules do you have to follow, and which ones can you throw to the wayside?
Today, I’m answering your burning questions by going over some ground rules and explaining the reasons behind them. While this is just my opinion and certainly not required, these rules are highly regarded in the wedding industry and beyond as some important ways to show respect to your guests, wedding party and beloved family members.
Facebook First
In our day and age, posting a Facebook #ringselfie may sound like a good idea…until your long-lost aunt calls grandma before you can. Before posting that beautiful ring, be sure to share the good news with close friends and family. That way you can celebrate appropriately and THEN brag about it on social media.
Send an invitation
Whether it’s digital, through a Facebook event, or even tried and true traditional stationery with a candle wax seal, sending an invitation is an absolute necessity. This rule not only helps your guests know to plan ahead, it helps YOU keep track of who will be attending, who they’re bringing along, and whether that $45 plate will be chicken or fish! (Photo by: A+M Photography)
Pre-Wedding Festivities
Although you’d love to invite every one of your old college friends and fresh acquaintances, it’s best to keep the guestlist for those pre-wedding events to those who are actually attending the wedding. Inviting others to the smaller events leading up to the wedding more so implies that you’re inviting them for a gift and should just be avoided due to hurt feelings later on.
Drinks
While your budget may not allow room for a full-service bar, there are MULTIPLE options available to stretch your dollars while also staying polite. Asking your guests to pay for their drinks is considered rude and should be avoided, as should having a tip jar at the bar. Instead, host a beer and wine bar or provide a signature cocktail, or simply skip the alcohol altogether and host a champagne and cider toast during dinner.
Feed Your People: Even Your Wedding Pros
I know this might sound a little self-serving, but feeding your wedding professionals is such a simple way to thank them for a job well done. Your photographer(s), videographer(s), DJ, and wedding planner work hard to make sure your wedding is as perfect as you ever dreamed it would be. Giving them a meal helps them restore their energy to make it to that final exit and goes a long way when it comes to gratitude.
Although it may seem overwhelming with all of the etiquette rules to follow – many of the “rules” may appear dated but can be adapted to fit your big day. By following these simple rules above, you can avoid upsetting your nearest and dearest and instead focus on celebrating how awesome it is to finally be married.
If you need help navigating the tricky process of etiquette, I’ve had lots of practice! Feel free to reach out and set up a free consultation.
Lexi
