Brides & Weddings Magazine
By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher of Brides & Weddings
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Your wedding day is a special and memorable occasion you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. As the wedding couple, you’ll be the center of attention, and it’s important to understand the proper etiquette to ensure that everyone involved has a positive and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips on wedding etiquette for the wedding couple.
Announcing the Engagement
Traditionally, the bride’s parents are the first to be informed of the engagement, followed by the groom’s parents. The couple can then share the news with close family and friends before making a public announcement on social media or in the newspaper.
Choosing the Wedding Party
When choosing your wedding party, it’s important to consider your relationship with each person rather than their social status or how many attendants you want on each side. You should also make sure that everyone involved understands their role and responsibilities.
Sending Invitations
Invitations should be sent out six to eight weeks before the wedding and should include all necessary information, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. You should also include an RSVP date, so that you can finalize your guest list and make any necessary arrangements.
Registering for Gifts
When registering for gifts, it’s important to choose items that you need or want, rather than just selecting the most expensive items. You should also provide a range of options at different price points to accommodate guests with different budgets.
Thank-You Notes
Thank-you notes should be sent to guests within two to three weeks after the wedding, thanking them for attending and for any gifts they gave. You should personalize each note and make it sincere, rather than using a generic template.
Rehearsal Dinner
Traditionally, the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner, which is typically held the night before the wedding. The purpose of the rehearsal dinner is to gather the wedding party and close family members for a relaxed meal before the big day.
Wedding Day
On the wedding day itself, it’s important for the wedding couple to be gracious hosts and make an effort to greet and thank each guest for attending. It’s also important to be punctual and follow the timeline you’ve set for the day.
Thank-You Speech
During the reception, the wedding couple should give a thank-you speech to thank all the guests for attending and for their support. The speech should be sincere, and heartfelt, and should include special thanks to family members and friends who have helped make the wedding day possible.
Following proper wedding etiquette can help ensure your wedding day is a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Remember to be gracious hosts, show gratitude and appreciation to your guests, and personalize each aspect of your wedding to reflect your unique style and personality.
Rebecca Barnes is the publisher of Brides & Weddings, the trusted local wedding planning guide for more than 25 years. Rebecca is passionate about helping couples plan their dream weddings. Schedule a complimentary wedding planning consultation, call with Rebecca today.
