Bridal Etiquette

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Walking Down the Aisle: If it seems too old fashioned to be "given" away, why not have you and soon-to-be husband walk down the aisle together or meet half way? To Have a Receiving Line ...

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Walking Down the Aisle:
If it seems too old fashioned to be "given" away, why not have you and soon-to-be husband walk down the aisle together or meet half way?

To Have a Receiving Line or not:
Many of your guests have traveled a long a way to attend your wedding. It is courteous to have either a receiving line or make your rounds during the meal. You want to make sure you see each person at least once.

The Wedding Dances:
After being announced at the reception for the first time as husband and wife, the bride and groom dance to their song. The MC might then ask the bridal party and guests to join in. This sets the stage for the rest of the occasion. It is proper to have the bride dance with her father and for the groom to dance with his mother. If that is not possible, you can choose to dance with a sibling or close family member in their place.

The Money Dance:
This is your personal call. Some couples find it tacky to expect your guests to give you money to dance, especially since they have already contributed towards your shower and wedding gifts. However, this is a great way to have some extra spending money on your honeymoon.

Thank You Cards:
A personal thank you note is considered necessary in order to convey your sincere appreciation. It must be handwritten, not typed. A separate card should be sent out for the shower and wedding gift. Your bridal party should be included on your list. They should be sent out no longer than four weeks after receipt of gift.

Wedding Tipping:
Many service providers include the tip in the cost of the service. If you feel they have done a wonderful job, you can express your gratitude by giving them more, however, it is not necessary. You can tip the coat room attendant, limousine driver, florist, photographer, videographer, musicians, civil ceremony officials, clergyman, bridal consultants, and whoever you would like to personally thank.

Calling the Wedding Off:
Of course no one likes to think of this happening, but it is better to call it off during the engagement than have a messy divorce, especially if kids are involved. Choosing your life partner is extremely difficult and should not be taken lightly. During the course of the engagement, jitters and nervousness are normal so do not confuse those with real problems. In the sake of this painful event, word can be simply passes around from family to guests or you can formally announce it. Remember you have guests who might have to cancel their travel arrangements so be sure to get word to them in proper time if possible.

Wedding Programs:
If you want to include a deceased parent's name, include it on the bottom with the following wording "In loving memory of..." Your wedding is a happy occasion. It is nice to remember a special loved one, but it should be done tastefully.

Flowers:
It is customary to give corsages to the parents and grandparents of the bride and groom.

Divorced Families:
Hopefully your parents will act mature on your special day and accommodate your needs. Please be sensitive to their feelings and comfort level. They can be seated apart at the ceremony and reception and don't really need to interact except for photographs.

Destination Weddings:
Many couples now a days elope or have a destination wedding with only immediate family. Later on they have a celebration with their friends and extended family. Be sure to send announcement cards to everyone who will be invited to the future festivities.

Emily Post offers an etiquette book that handles many different situations. What ever you decide to do, remember it is your wedding day. Do whatever makes you comfortable and happy!