Wedding Etiquette: All Your Questions, Answered
There are so many questions that arise when it comes to wedding etiquette. Whether it is your wedding or one you are attending at a guest, there are certain things that you may be unsure of. Here at Metro Bridal, we have scoured the internet and spoke to our experts to answer every pressing question you may have about wedding etiquette.
How do I get guests to RSVP?
- If you include pre-stamped and pre-addressed envelopes with your invitation and directions, it will make it nearly impossible for guests to forget to RSVP.
- For backyard weddings or smaller gatherings, allow guests to RSVP via email. It is more convenient for guests and, in turn, they will be more likely to do it.
How do I decide who gets to bring a guest?
- A good rule of thumb is to give a plus one to anyone in a committed relationship (married, engaged, live in). Basically, anyone you know will bring a guest.
- Many people also like to allow anyone who is 18 or older to bring a guest since they are no longer included with the kids at the party, but may not fit in with the adults either.
- For guests with children, make it clear on the invitation whether the couple is invited, or the whole family. Make out the invitation to Mr. and Mrs. Smith or The Smith Family.
If someone asks me to be in their wedding, do I have to ask them to be in mine?
- This one is easy…Nope! Everyone family is a different size and you may have more people that you have to have in your bridal party.
- Instead, ask them to be a reader at the ceremony or give them a specific duty at the wedding.
Should the bride be involved with the bridal shower?
- If the shower is not a surprise, it is okay to make suggestions or give your ideas, but do not make demands. Your bridal party is working hard to make your shower unforgettable, don’t make it harder on them.
- Also, your suggestions should never include anything that will add expense to the shower, as the bridesmaids will usually be paying for this out of their own pocket.
Is it okay to register if this is my second marriage?
- Just because this is your second wedding, doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate like it is your first. This is a brand new relationship and it deserves a fresh start.
- This is the perfect opportunity for a honeymoon registry, if you don’t want to register for individual items.
How long after my wedding should I sent out “Thank You” notes?
- Our first answer: ASAP!
- Our second answer: 3 months maximum. Order your thank you cards ahead of time and save a document with all the addresses you used for your wedding invitations to save time. Even address the thank you envelopes beforehand if you’re feeling ambitious…
- A side note: NO EMAILS! Make sure all your thank you notes are handwritten. There is nothing quite like a handwritten thank you to show your gratitude and appreciation.