Wedding Etiquette Questions Answered

Wedding Etiquette, always a major stressor!  Here are some answers to questions that always seem to come up in the planning process!

Who Should Be The First To Know About My Engagement?

Avoid broadcasting the news (pics included) to social networks before sharing your engagement with family and friends. If you have any children from a previous marriage, they should be told first. Parents, family members, godparents, and anyone you are particularly close with should also be told before the news is public knowledge.

What Guests Should Be Able To Bring A Date?

You should extend a plus one to anyone who is in a committed relationship, whether married, engaged, or living with someone—even if you haven’t met the other half. You are not obligated to give single guests and guests who are involved in casual relationships the option to bring a date.

Am I Expected To Invite All Of My Co Workers?

You don’t have to invite everyone you work with, or even anyone you work with, but if you do, try to pick a logical dividing line, like your department only, so people don’t feel excluded.

How Do I Deal With Guests Who Ask to Bring Kids Even After We’ve Made It Clear They’re Not Invited?

Call the guest (even if they’ve contacted you through another medium, like email) and kindly, but firmly explain that the invitation was just for the adults and that you hope they can still attend. Don’t make exceptions—it’s not fair to other guests who respect your wishes.  It’s your day, stick to your guns!

Who Hosts the Bridal Shower?

Anyone from the bridesmaids to the mother of the bride to the mother of the groom can host a bridal shower. In any case, the hostess should consult with the bride about the guest list, because shower guests should also be invited to the wedding.

Who Should Host the Rehearsal Dinner?

Traditionally, the groom’s family hosts (and pays for) the rehearsal dinner and arranges a guest list in conjunction with the bride’s family.

Is It Okay to Use My Phone to Upload Pictures During the Wedding?

When in doubt, it’s better to ask the couple’s permission before posting photos to social media —especially during the ceremony. Uploading photos not only distracts you from participating in the moment, but it also broadcasts details of the event to people who may not have been invited.