From the beginning proposal to the end “I do’s” here are just of few tips for proper wedding etiquette.
1 – Engagement News – So, who should actually be the first people to know about the big news? Our first bit of advice says, do not broadcast it via social media—at least not yet. If you have children, they should be the first to know. Then parents, family members, and close friends fall next in line. After the important people know, then feel free to blast your exciting proposal all over Facebook, Instagram, and wherever else you wish!
2 – Here Comes the Bride and Who? – Tradition says that the bride’s father is supposed to be the one to walk her down the aisle, but that isn’t always possible. So, is it alright to have someone else accompany you? Of course it is! Any person of significance to you is fine to walk you down the aisle.
3 – Invitations – Proper wedding etiquette says to send the invitation to your guests well in advance, at least one month—more if you have guests coming from out of town. The last day for guests to RSVP should be set at 15 days before the wedding. Include a pre-stamped envelope which will encourage guests RSVP. Call those who haven’t responded the week before to follow up as to whether or not they will be attending. A new trend is sending out a “Save the Date” reminder after the engagement happens. Many couples do this as a heads up and then send out the formal invitations closer to the big day. You should also be sure to send invitations to guests, even if you know they cannot attend.
4 – Do I Have to Have a Cake? – Tradition says yes, but 2014 says no. Many weddings use cupcake towers or candy bars in place of the cake. Whatever you decide to use is fine. Just know that the cutting of the cake or serving of dessert is the traditional symbol to let guests know its alright to leave without being rude, so you may want to let everyone know when the festivities are wrapping up.
5 – Who Do I Ask to Be in My Wedding? – This is a tough, tough question–one that has undoubtedly broken a friendship or two. Just remember, regardless of whom you choose to include or not include, you should not feel obligated. In a perfect world, everyone would be able to be a part of your wedding, but we know that isn’t always going to be the case. Ask only those whom you are very close to. It is also a nice gesture to include your fiancé’s siblings or those who you served in their wedding, but you are not required to do so. If in doubt about a person, ask them to be another part of your wedding party like an usher or to oversee the guest book signing.
If you are in the process of planning your big day, The Party Place has the essentials you need to host the perfect wedding. Plates, napkins, centerpieces, invitations, flowers, balloons, cake tiers, decorations, cake cutters, mints and more are available in store. Visit The Party Place at 1200 Waldron Road Suite 126 in Fort Smith, Arkansas right next to FFO and in Rogers, Arkansas at ADDRESS and ADDRESS. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com//partyplacefortsmith on Twitter @partyplace_fs Instagram @yourpartplace and Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/thepartyplace/
