It's Wedding Season!

Here comes the bride, all dressed in white, or pink, or maybe even red or yellow! Spring has sprung! And that means the beginning of wedding season and all that comes with it. You’ve finally received your invite; besides feeling oh so special for making the cut, what now?!

Not everyone is familiar with the do’s and don’ts of wedding etiquette so Friends and Family Circle wants to give you a few pointers. Grab a pen and pad! We’ll be covering when you should and shouldn't bring a date, engagement party gift-giving, and actual wedding appropriateness! Let’s get started!

GIFTS FOR ENGAGEMENT PARTIES
Do you or do you not bring a gift to the engagement party? Hmmm. Well the answer to this depends on a couple of things including how close you are to the couple and your budget. As far as engagement party “etiquette” goes, a gift isn’t expected. This is the first of many gift-giving opportunities to follow. However, if you’re, say, the aunt of the bride, giving a simple gift like a bottle of wine to celebrate the occasion is fine. Nothing too over-the-top!


BRINGING A DATE TO THE WEDDING
Make sure to check the invitation! Was it addressed to ‘G. Whiz and Guest’? If so, you’re in the clear for bringing someone with you. Just know that it’s not an obligation! The last thing the happy couple wants is uninvited guests. More than likely, they’re paying by the head, so if you do decide to have someone tag along, RSVP accordingly. As for whom you should bring, make sure it’s someone who’s in good graces with the bridal party, of course. Someone who had a falling out with the groom just months ago would not be the best candidate. It may be water under the bridge for them, but don’t take any chances!


WEDDING ETIQUETTE BASICS

• Répondez s’il vous plait! That’s fancy (or French) for “please respond”. This is probably one of the most important things you MUST do. Whether you are able, or unfortunately unable to attend to the union, let your hosts know.
• Read the invitation! We know you’re excited and all but there is very important information on your invite. This includes the date, time, location, whether you were invited with a guest, if the event is kid-friendly, your deadline for confirming/declining your attendance and possibly much more. Your hosts have enough on their plate so try to avoid calling them to ask questions that may already be answered on your invite.
• Give a little!  Whether you are able to attend or not, send a gift! How much should you spend? There’s no set rule, but in general, the closer you are to the couple, the more you should probably spend. Also, if at all possible, send your gift to the couple BEFORE or AFTER the event. It’s difficult for family members to transport all of their gifts after the wedding.
• HAVE FUN… but not too much! Remember to be respectful. It’s not about you; it’s about the bride and groom, so act accordingly.