Are You a Gracious Bride? Wedding Question Wednesday

Question: Am I a Gracious Bride?

Answer: Holly Lefevre from over at Hip Weddings has a FABULOUS list that EVERY bride should carry in her bridal bag. We have all seen the unsightly bride on TV.  She is demanding, pushy, rude, ungrateful, nasty, inconsiderate and above all...a Bridezilla! No one wants to remember themselves, their daughter, friend or sister as, "that bride".  So - READ this list, memorize it, and then go buy Holly's book so you are sure to keep up on everything Wedding Etiquette.

Top 10 Things A Gracious Bride Knows
(list provided by Hip Weddings)

1. Just because others do not know proper etiquette, doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

2. Be humble. You may be a bride now, but soon you will re-enter life as a mere mortal.

3. Respect tradition, but give it your own personal spin.

4. Mind your manners. “Please” and “Thank you” will take you a long way.

5. These people are your friends and family – they do not work for you, but are here to help you…because they love you.

6. Don’t assume anything - ask questions and get the details in writing.

7. These people are your GUESTS! Don’t keep them waiting and don’t ask them to pay for anything.

8. Treat your vendors kindly, and they will do the same for you.

9. Thank you notes are a must. It is never wrong to express your thanks to your parents, your guests, and your vendors.

10. If it doesn’t feel right don’t do it. When in doubt trust yourself.

Holly also has a new book coming out, The Everything Wedding Checklist Book: All you need to remember for a day you'll never forget (Everything Series)- you can check it out at Amazon.

Click here for Holly's Gracious Bride post.  Thanks Holly for being so knowledgeable!

*hugs*
Denice
Photo Credits:
Bride: Photography By Soozie
Book: Amazon

Gifts, Gifts and More Gifts, What Do I Have To Buy? Wedding Question Wednesday

Today's question is from Becca over at barefeet on the dashboard - Thanks Becca =)

Question: Should bridesmaids buy the bride an engagement gift, shower gift,  bachelorette party gift, and wedding gift?

Answer: LOL!! This question never gets old.  We first answered it back in 2008! The truth is, being part of a wedding is EXPENSIVE- so if you sign on to do it, be prepared to shell out some cash. I know, it kind of stinks, but its part of the deal. Some of the financial responsibility the will be required of you is:

1) Your Bridesmaid Dress
2) Your Shoes
3) Necessary accessories (unless gifted by the bride)
4) Contribution to the Shower (usually given by a brides bridesmaids)
5) Contribution to the Bachelorette Party (usually given by a brides bridesmaids and friends)

So, when it comes to the gifts, keep them simple and thoughtful, because YES if you are attending all the festivities, its appropriate to bring a gift of some sort. Here are some ides:

Engagement Party:
It's not totally not necessary to bring a gift, but a nice gesture.  Opt to bring something that celebrates them as a couple. A nice bottle of wine or champagne, or maybe something for them to use while planning their engagement and the upcoming big day.

Bridal Shower:
This is a more intimate of a gift. If the Shower is themed, go along with that. Some are home based others are honeymoon based. Stick to getting a gift that flows along those lines. If there is no theme, buy something they will use in or around the home, or something for the Big Day! Remember the groom too! Garden and tools are nice and always needed. TRY not to give something embarrassing at the shower as many of the brides "mature" family will be there =) Save the fun gifts for the bachlorette party.

Bachelorette Party:
This is a fun gift, usually lingerie or something for the honeymoon ;) While this gift is not totally necessary, but fun!

Wedding:
General rule here...Stick to the registry or give a gift card. If you are invited to a wedding it is appropriate for you to bring a gift.  If you can't make it to the wedding, you still should follow good etiquette and send a gift. Also good etiquette, send the gift to the brides home before the wedding and do not bring it to the reception.  Check out these post out for some wedding gift etiquette: WeddingBasics.com  & HuffingtonPost.com.

Keep this tip in mind:
Give only what you can afford! Be creative. Homemade gifts are always a hit! 

Here are some GREAT DIY sites that have tons of crafty ideas that your bride/groom will love:
http://www.504main.com
http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com
http://thediyclub.com
http://craftychicmommy.blogspot.com
http://www.theidearoom.net 

*hugs*
Denice
Photo Credit: Katie

Financial Support for the Big Day- Who Has a Say? ~ Wedding Question Wednesday

Question: My mom doesn't agree with me on anything, the dress, the venue, the menu, not even the colors! They've threatened to pull their financial support if I don't cave in, but it's my wedding, they already had theirs! What should I do?!


Answer:
From a Mom:
My answer only reflects being the Mom. First off it seems like tempers have flared and there is a standoff going on. They need to sit down as a family and talk. I would like to tell the bride how since the day my daughter was born I realized someday she would marry. Marriage is a great day of celebration for the bride and the groom,but it also is a celebration of her parents giving her away.

I told my daughters that when planning the wedding they didn't have to accept all my suggestions, but they had to respect my requests. We talked about how much we were willing to spend, how many people would attend and what we felt comfortable doing. Our daughters shared their requests and from there we had developed a plan.

I hope the parents realize that they are taking the happiest day of all their lives and clouding it, but I hope also that the bride sits down and listens to what they have to say. It is not all about the BRIDES day, but a true celebration of uniting two families. I told my girls "remember the smile on your face when you got engaged and after the wedding is over and you are leaving the reception, I want to see that same smile". Then I know we have succeeded.

From a Dad:
There has to be some sort of understanding of what a budget means. Nobody wants to feel taken advantage of. So if you want something that takes the wedding way over budget, you need to consider cutting somewhere else, doing without, or paying for it yourself. Respect the people "gifting" you your wedding, and be appreciative of ANY amount that is given. Many parents didn't have any money to offer. If yours do, you're a LUCKY GIRL!!! (from a dad, with no fashion input, just financial)

From the "K" of KDC:
Comprise is key. Maybe bend on the colors if they let you pick venue ... the guy writes the check writes the rules sometimes. Lol!! That is what my dad told me. =)

I hope these different perspectives help! Let us know.
*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Kano Photography (Katie's wedding)

I'm A Mother-in-Law! What's My Role? ~ Wedding Question Wednesday

Today's question comes from Emily, author of Scribbles from Emily

Question: As a mother-in-law, how involved can I be in the wedding planning without overstepping my bounds?

Answer: I believe a Mother-in-law and a Mother can be very involved in the planning of a wedding. It's a good idea to all sit down BEFORE the planning begins and see what everyone's expectations are. Once this is done, you will know where everyone stands. You then can start setting YOUR expectation. The main thing to remember is that everyone has feelings and everyone has been planning and waiting for this moment.

One tip I always follow is to never say NO, and never shut someone down.  The way to handle it with tact is to say something like, "That is a great idea, we will keep it and see how everything comes together, thank you." OR "that is a lovely color, I am just not sure how it will look with everyone's tone and hair color". See you are taking their suggestion into consideration, and not putting them on the defense!

Try to head off confrontations by:

1. Not putting people on the defensive
2. Keeping everyone in on the plans- don't leave out important details, dates and times- keep everyone informed
3. Try incorporating some of the traditions from each side of the family
4. If you give in a little you can take a little =)

Here are some great blog post on the Bride and Mother of the Bride by Holly Lefevre.  I HIGHLY recommend reading them!! Also check out our post on last minute to do lists!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Kano Photography

Maid of Honor Duties ~ Wedding Question Wednesday

Today our question comes from Tina over at (Florida) Girl With A New Life

 

Question: I just got picked to be Maid of Honor. So what are my most important duties?

 

Answer: Tina this is a GREAT question! There are so many opinions on what the Maid of Honors actual duties are. I believe the number 1 duty is to be there for the bride. There will be times through all the planning that there is no one for her to turn to to complain, nag or boss around, and she will turn to you, her #1 gal pal.  Remember to not to take things personally.  Brides put themselves under so much (unnecessary) stress. Be there to help guide her, keep her organize, and most of all help keep her grounded. 

Here is a more accurate list of Modern Day Duties of the Maid (or Matron) of Honor:

Pre-Wedding:

• Plan/help plan the shower, and, if the bride wants one, a bachelorette party. If the bride has an involved mom and/or sister, coordinate with them on dates
• Dress shopping!! Go with the bride to look for her gown, and help shop for the bridesmaids’ dresses
• Be sure all brides maids have scheduled dress fittings, and are all aware of required attire (this includes hair and make up)
•  Be in attendance for all prewedding parties (if you are local to the bride and groom)
• Help arrange hotels if needed for the bridal party
• Let others in the bridal party know where and when pre wedding events are (rehearsal)
• Help address invitations if necessary
• Lend a hand in scouting venues, caters etc. if asked
• Help keep the Mother of the Bride informed as to what current happenings are (this is if the bride is forgetful)
• Help dress the bride
• Be sure to have a bridal day emergency kit on hand
• Help with last minute wedding to do lists

During the Wedding:

• Arrange the bride's train and veil before the ceremony begins and if necessary while at the altar, hold flowers if necessary, and help bustle the brides gown before the reception
• Keeper of the groom's ring during the ceremony (I usually place it on my thumb)
• Carry tissue in case it is needed
• Be an extra set of eyes to be sure all is set up to the brides specifications
• Be sure all attendants receive their flowers

 Reception:

• Sign the marriage license with the best man
• Play hostess (as well as with the other bridesmaids) at the reception by helping seat guests, usher where gifts can be placed, and where they can sign the guest book.
• Toast the new couple
• Help the parents of the couple get the gifts home from the ceremony
• Be sure the cards to the couple are kept safe
• Keep the guest line moving, and collect the money if they are having a money dance

To learn more about wedding etiquette, Check out this great little book by Holly Lefevre, "The Everything Wedding Etiquette Book: From invites to thank you notes - All you need to handle even the stickiest situations with ease" you can visit Holly at her web site.

 

Here are some other sites to check out:

http://www.bridesmaid101.com/maid_of_honor_duties.html
http://www.themaidofhonorguide.com/
RealSimple Check list

*hugs*
Denice
Photo credit: Me & Holly Lefevre

Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Bridesmaid Dress Drama

Our question this week comes from Emily (scribbles from emily):

Question: I let my bridesmaids pick out their dresses, and they can't agree on anything. Well, except that they don't like whatever I suggest. The deadline for ordering dresses is coming up, what should I do?

Answer:  Wow Emily, you are a nice bride! This is actually what a lot of brides are doing in today's weddings. One suggestion might be that YOU choose the color and style (short, long, sleeves or no sleeves) and leave the rest up to the ladies.

Give your bridesmaids simple guidelines, yet freedom at the same time.  By doing this, you will not only let them find a dress that they are comfortable in, but also that they will fee confident in wearing. This helps you to have fantastic photos!

Make sure you have an "alternate" dress chosen, at a reasonable price so that if someone is unable to find something they like, they have to take the alternate to be in the wedding. This ensures that all dresses are ordered on time.

Many bridal stores are even getting in on this idea. They are offering lots of dresses, in lots of styles all in the same color pallet so they match. Check out David's Bridal and Alfred Anglo.  I know they both cater to this since I have recently used both of them!

One of our close friends and recent bride Millie, did this.  She had a Beach wedding in San Diego and a large amount of bridesmaids.  She gave them the specifications of color (black) and style (short).  Millie also let them choose their own shoes as long as they were 1) Fabulous and 2) yellow.  Here is a shot form her wedding:

Also check out our last post on Bridesmaids and Dress shopping.

Hope this helps!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Photography By Soozie

Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Reception on a Budget

Hello all! I am so excited to be back with Wedding Question Wednesday! I alwyas loved how many questions we received, and how much we were able to help all of our fans and readers. We hope this 2011 edition of Wedding Question Wednesday is just what you ordered.

Please feel free to send us your questions and concerns wedding related.  We also would love to help with ALL your event related questions, so send them in!

Our first question of 2011 comes to us from Jill.  She is the author of Strawberry Freckles, super cute blog, check it out.


Q: Is it possible to have a ceremony/reception for less than $1,000. no flowers, no attendants, no frills...just people and food and music.

A: Of course it is Jill! The first thing you are going to have to do is accept the fact that you are not going to have a lavish event. I have helped give MANY wedding/events that are "do it yourself" and on a strict budget. The key is to PLAN AHEAD here are some tips:

1) Utilize your "network of contacts" If you are having a ceremony, get someone you know who will perform it as their gift to you. If you are already legally hitched, there is no need to have someone ordained, just someone who can give a nice ceremonial address.  IF you are not legally hitched already, you can look into having a friend ordained. Either way, getting someone you know to "gift" you the ceremony helps eliminate the cost.

2) Another way to utilize your "network of contacts" is to get your people to help out. Have the event at home or a relatives home (saves the facility rental cost). Ask your family and close friends to help cater your event. Almost potluck style, but better organized!! This is another area you can ask for "gifted" items. If you know someone who makes cakes, ask for their help!

3) DJ your own event by creating a your own music play list. You may need to borrow or rent sound equipment, but that's ok!  Ask an energetic friend or family member to MC the event to keep it rolling.

4) If table rentals are out of the question, start collecting borrowed tables/chairs ahead of time. Sometimes your church will let you use them =) Same goes with table cloths.

5) Make your own giveaways. A great idea for a giveaway is a homemade CD with a personalized photo cover. You can make them yourself and package them really cute.  Here is one we did:

6) Make your own centerpiece.  Keep it simple. Here are ones we did a t a wedding with the flowers from Costco and the vase from the 99 cent store. The photo frames were also home made. Photos printed by the maid of honor and the frame was painted black. Super easy!

7) Put up LOTS of white lights! That makes any event better and sets a great mood. I would steer clear of balloons...those belong at birthday parties, not weddings. Also add your own touch. Tulle is nice touch.  We even made chair bows with ribbon from the 99 cent store and flowers from the dollar tree!

 

 

8) Limit your guest list. The more people, the more moooolah!

9) Ask a friend to take photos.  I know that these are your memories, but it is hard to find a photographer when on a strict budget.  If you know one who is a friend...ask them to gift it! OR try trading for service.  It is also fun to create a "photo op" to keep things fun. Here is one we did at an anniversary party:

and last but not least...
10) HAVE FUN! Make the day about you and your new hubby. The event should reflect YOU two as a couple.



Here are a few website links that are a great resource:
http://hipweddings.blogspot.com/2010/05/lot-of-color-lot-of-spice.html
http://www.budgetawedding.com/2010/08/cheap-chic-wedding-reception-ideas
http://www.budgetawedding.com/2010/08/how-to-successfully-plan-wedding-on/
http://www.budgetawedding.com/2010/10/five-diy-wedding-table-decorations

Good Luck! Let us know how it turnes out =)

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Us

Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Returning!

Yup, I am thinking about the return of Wedding Question Wednesday.  Why you say? Well I have attended a few weddings in the last year and I KNOW there are questions out there...I can see/hear it!

So, tell your friends, SUBMIT your questions and we will answer them.

We are willing to help, for free!

Ask us anything, ideas, questions, thoughts...we are here to help!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Kano Photography

Wedding Question Wednesday...Will Return!

Please, send us your questions! Wedding Question Wednesday will be returning!

*hugs*
Denice

Wedding Question Wednesday- Grooms Gift

Today's question comes from Kacie- "When do you give the grooms gift? At rehearsal with everyone else or on the wedding day? If on the wedding day, how do you get it to him without seeing him?"

Here is what I would do: Give it to your lucky guy at the wedding. When Ryan and I got married we had a special moment, right before the ceremony where in the brides room, alone (well sort of, the photographer was there at first) and we got to chat and exchange gifts before the ceremony. This was nice, we were able to get out all the jitters before hand!

If you want to wait, and do it after the ceremony, do it right after, BEFORE the craziness of the photos, and the reception. Tell everyone you want 15 minutes, after the ceremony... alone! Instruct your maid of honor and best man to guard the room so no one bothers you. It is a nice moment for the two of you. It gives you the chance to savor the day and reflect before you entertain your guest for the remainder of the night.

I hope this helps! Let me know how it goes!



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Wedding Question Wednesday- Gifts

I received this question for my co-worker, Stephanie. She asks, "If you are invited to the engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party and the wedding are you required to get a gift for all there events?"

This is a great question Stephanie! I don't think there is a definite yes or no answer, but here are my thoughts.

If you are invited to the engagement party, all that is required is a card! That's it, unless you are the parents, grandparents or sibling, then a little more may be required.

If you are invited to the shower you definitely need to bring a gift, preferably something for the bride or off the registry. Some showers these days are themed, so you know what type of gift to bring.

If you are invited to the bachelorette party, I don't believe a gift is necessary, but usually a gag gift of some sort, OR you can assist in bringing something necessary for the night (ie: drinks, food, etc.)

For the wedding, it is ok, to again, buy off the registry or simply give a gift card or money.

I guarantee in 10 years (heck, maybe even 2), the bride and groom will not even remember what they received as gifts from the showers or wedding.

Just remember, give only with in your means. Do not go into debt supplying the bride and groom with the top of the line blender. Only buy what you can afford.

I hope this helps! Let me know.

Photo credit: Denice's wedding


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Wedding Question Wednesday- Did you RSVP?

Today's question comes form Charlie P- "Is is appropriate to call people who have not RSVP in the time allotted?"

Well, Mr. P, in today's economic times, I we say...YES! With the cost of weddings going up, we feel that it is absolutely appropriate for you to call those guest who have neglected to RSVP and give their "Yay" or "Nay".

One idea I (Denice) had received while planning my own wedding was to number each response card and then place that corresponding number on my guest list. That way, if a card was returned to me with no name, I knew who it belonged to, and I could weed out the ones who did not RSVP. I did end up calling those individuals who did not RSVP, and believe it or not, there were quite a few who "thought" they sent in the response card or said they did, but it was lost in the mail.

I will say one thing, I ONLY think it is appropriate to call family or very close friends. I do NOT think it is appropriate to call co-workers, acquaintances or other invites that are not close to you. If you did, it may come off as rude or pushy.

If you need etiquette help, I recommend checking out:

http://weddings.about.com/od/invitations/a/replycardwordin.htm
http://www.hitweddings.com/article/roles-for-guests/
http://weddiquetteblog.com/

Since this is such a touchy subject, we would like to know your thoughts... please share!

Photo credit: my wedding!



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Wedding Question Wednesday - Remembering Loved One's

Everyone wants to believe that their loved ones are going to be ever present. Unfortunately, there God has a different agenda and calls on our loved ones before we are ready. It is not a pleasant emotion to deal with on you wedding day, but it is a blessing to be able to do so.

Today’s question is a hard one to deal with, “How do I honor my mother, who recently passed away, at my upcoming wedding?”

I have seen this done many times in a few different ways. You want it to be a subtle, but caring way, of honoring the ones you loved. Whether it is a grandparent, parent, sibling or friend, you want them and your guest to know they are loved and missed.

* One way is a bell chime for each lost loved one with a moment of silence.

* Another way is to have an open seat with a rose or other type of flower noting their place in your ceremony.

* I have even see couples display the photos of the loved ones at the reception by a memory board or the head table.

Any way you choose to remember your loved one, it will truly be up to you. To be able to include their memory in your special day is all that really matters.

I hope I was able to help anyone dealing with the sadness of losing a loved one. If you have witnessed another form of memory, please share.

Photo Credit: Denice's wedding


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Wedding Question Wednesday- Bridesmaid Gifts

Today's questions: "What type of gift, if any should I get my bridesmaids?"

This is a fabulous question! YES, you should get your bridesmaids gifts. They are spending quite a bit of money to participate in your big day. It does not have to be an expensive gift by any means, just something that says, "Thanks for being in my wedding and for being a great friend."

(Denice and her bridesmaids 2001)

We all know how brides can be the closer it gets to there wedding, and our friends are great at acting like we are still the nice, sweet, girl who has been their friend for years, when in actuality they become nasty bridezillas!

So your bridesmaids deserve your thanks and appreciation. Here are a few ideas that are nice:

- Shoes! If you want them all to match for the wedding, you can buy them.
- Jewelry set for the wedding day (try House of Raquel)
- Nice slippers
- Gift certificate for a manicure or pedicure
- Make up (like Bobbi Browns Beautiful Bride Kit)

These are just a few ideas I thought I would like if I were a bridesmaid.

Have any ideas or gifts you have received? Let us know!

Photo Credit: Denice's Wedding 2001 (photographer Stephanie Kano)



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Wedding Question Wednesday- Gift for the Groom?

Today's question is, "What do I get my groom as a gift on our wedding day?"

Well, there are a lot of nice gifts out there, but what you need to do is ask yourself...What would my new hubby really like? The answer...something that reminds him of you. What better way then with a sassy photo of you in your *special* wedding attire.

Our friends over at Beauty Chat just did a fabulous review on this type of photography called Boudoir Photography, it gives the groom a glimpse of your sensual side!

Check out Beauty Chat, Jennifer has listed some great tips on how to pick your photographer. Some wedding photographers will even include this as part of your wedding package, so if you are interested, be sure to check with them.

Is this something you would do? Let us know!

Photo credit: Back of bride/veil


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Wedding Question Wednesday - No Children Please!

Our question today comes form Kacie-

"Is it proper to put no children please in the invites?

This is a fabulous question, one that I am sure causes much stress for many brides! I can also speak from personal experience on this one. I had to include this very message on my invitations due to spacing issues. It is a delicate subject, and you want to be sure you do not offend anyone.

Be sure you state it in a way that is non-offensive. Simply stating NO CHILDREN may offend those who have them. The way I did it was to state that there was an "Adult Reception immediately following the ceremony."

The one exception to my "Adult Reception" was that I let family members bring their children. But that was it!

I think the best thing to do is be honest. Ask yourself, "Why do I not want children at the event?" If you can't come up with a really good reason, then I would leave it off the invites. If you can, then make sure you do it in a way to not offend your guest. Just remember, they will be spending a lot of money on you and to attend your wedding.

Need help finding invitations? Check out this fabulous site:
- Party Invitations Blog

Check out some of these Diva's (courtesy of the divapreneur network)
- Jenny Moore
- Marisa of So Inviting Paper

Have you run in to a sticky situation before regarding "no children?" Let us know!


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Wedding Question Wednesday - Bachlorette Party

So today I am a day late...but it's better than forgetting!

Today our question comes from a long time friend of mine. Kaci and I have know each other since high school (yes that's like 11 years ago). Well, Kacie is getting married and is looking for Bachlorette Party information and ideas, so here we go!

Rather than plan the event for you (that could take days!) we want to supply you with resources that will help build a memorable night for you and your girlfriends!

We have combed the Internet and our friends to come up with these resources:

Over all ideas:
bachelorettepartyguide.com
bachelorettepartyideas.net
Party411.com
bachelorettepartyfun.com
Bridesmaid 101

Supplies:
bachelorette.com

Destinations:
Vegas.com
Bachlorette Destination - Party Weekend
Vegas.BachelorBlowout.com

Remember, the idea is to have an unforgettable night! Have a good bachlorette party idea? Please share it with us!

Photo credit: Denice at Soozies bachlorette party in 2005

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Wedding Question Wednesday - Must read book!

We are question-less this Wednesday! But have no fear, I have a great find for you!

As I was thumbing through the recent People Magazine, I came across a small article on a book called, "The Wedding Book" by Mindy Weiss. Wendy is a favorite with stars such as Eva Longoria-Parker and Heidi Klum.

The book gives tips on making your event unique, letting your finance have some fun, test driving your footwear and remembering that you can't please everyone.

So, if you're stuck and not sure what to do with your special day, I suggest checking out Mindy's web site and book (I sure am!). It is a one-stop-shop for all event related questions. Her blog is fantastic, and her store offers the cutest event must haves!

Check her out, she is amazing!

photo credit: MindyWeiss.com


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Wedding Question Wednesday- Bridal Shower

Dear Wedding Question Wednesday,

I need help!! I have never planned a bridal shower before (only attended). What are the necessities for the event? I don't want to leave anything out!

Thanks!! Leeann (join the gossip)

Hey Leeann! Thanks for the question!

Planning a bridal shower can be so much fun, but a lot of work. Here are some tips we hope help you out!

1) Plan ahead - way in advance (at least 1 month before the wedding)
2) Cater the event towards the brides personality
3) Make it a theme all will enjoy
4) Compile a reasonable guest list for your budget
5) Give all those invited ample time to plan
6) Have fun!!

Here are a couple of interesting and helpful sites:
Bridesmaid.com
Bridalshowertips.com
Allaboutshowers.com
Bridal-shower-ideas-for-you.com
RealSimple.com
Yeahmom.com (shower games)

I hope this helps Leeann! Let us know, and thanks for your question!


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Wedding Question Wednesday - Rehearsal Dinner

Our question today deals with the Rehearsal Dinner. I was recently asked,

"Who should attend the rehearsal dinner? Just the wedding party, or whom ever we want?"

Well, this is an excellent question!

We here at KDC Events feel this one can fall either way. We agree with the more traditional aspect of the rehearsal dinner in the fact that it is for the "Wedding Party". It is customary that the mother and father of the groom pay for the dinner and it include all those with an involved role in the planning, and may possibly include any family members who have traveled from out of town.

BUT, now days the bridal couple is starting to foot the bill. Sometimes the bride and groom want to include a few more friends and family, and show their gratitude for all the help and support they may have received while planning their big day.

I googled Rehearsal Dinner Etiquette and found these interesting articles:
Hit Weddings- The Wedding Rehearsal Dinner
Ezine Articles- Rehearsal Dinner Etiquette
The Knot- Wedding Rehearsals: The Basics

We hope this helps. Just remember, ultimately, it is YOUR day and you should have an event that reflects your personality as a couple. If tradition is not up your alley, then get creative!

If you have been to a creative, non traditional, rehearsal dinner, share it with us!

Photo Credit: Denice-2001 wedding rehearsal

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