Planning your most important day is certainly no easy feat, especially if you are doing it without a wedding planner. The to-do list keeps growing and stress may occur when you don’t know some of the rules that will help you tailor your event. But not to worry, as always we are here to provide a guiding hand and lessen the burden. That being said, here are 10 of the wedding etiquette rules you need to keep in mind!

1. Wedding Gift Registry

One of the most common mistakes couples make is adding gift registry information to their wedding invitations. This may sound logical but in a way, the invitations are to express how much you’d enjoy the attendance of your favorite people instead of a way to state your gift wishes. If you are looking for a polite way to notify them about the registry, you can do so through a wedding website or the good old word of mouth.

2. Wedding Invitations

When it comes to the invitations, it is best to send them 2-3 months before the day itself with a mandatory RSVP response. The response should be due 2-3 weeks prior to the wedding.

3. Dress Code

If you are planning a themed celebration or maybe a black-tie affair, then you should be clear about the dress code expectations. According to wedding etiquette, you should state your dress code on the invitations.

4. Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party

There is one main rule concerning both of these events and that is – never invite someone that you don’t intend to invite to the big day. If you are wondering who should host them, that is usually the maid of honor, along with the bridesmaids, but can also be the bride’s mother or the mother-in-law.

5. Wedding Party

Nowadays, it is not uncommon for couples to dismiss the idea of having a bridal party, so if you are wondering – both ways are totally fine, it is your day after all. However, if you do have one, then it would be a kind gesture to provide them with gifts. After all, they will commit time and money to support you so gifting them something would be greatly appreciated. That can be a piece of jewelry, or maybe a clutch bag – you can get creative. Furthermore, make sure that on the day of, they have breakfast and a cup of coffee at hand.

6. Wedding Attire

There are many brides who feel conflicted with the idea of wearing a gown for their special day. If you are one of those and are wondering whether wedding etiquette specifically requires a dress, then you can be at ease. There are many jumpsuits or pantsuits that can complete your styling. As for color, you are allowed to wear a gown that isn’t white as well.

7. Walking Down the Aisle

Even though according to traditions, the father walks down the aisle with the bride, this is not a rule. You may have lost a parent, or are close to both your biological and stepfather, thus, you can choose however you see fit. You can do it alone, with your partner, with your mother, even your sibling. As long as you are feeling confident and happy, any person can be your support before you say the iconic “I do”.

8. Singles Table for the Reception

Weddings are great places where singles can meet new people, but it is better to group them with various family and friends instead of making their marital or relationship status known. Trust us, they would appreciate not being singled out.

9. Greeting your Guests

According to wedding etiquette, it would be a lovely gesture to greet your guests and show them your appreciation for attending. If you are hosting a large event, this can be overwhelming, but try to pay your respects when able, and don’t skip this part. Additionally, send your thank you notes 2-3 weeks after the wedding instead of waiting for a longer period of time.

10. Meals for your Vendors

Unfortunately, this is often overlooked. Remember to plan meals for your wedding vendors when doing so for your guests.
We hope we have answered your wedding etiquette questions. For more tips and handy guides, visit our other blogs!