Wedding Etiquette Made Simple
If you’re planning a wedding, you’ve probably hit a few etiquette puzzles along the way. Who gets a save‑the‑date? Should you send a thank‑you note after the ceremony? When should you send the invitations? This page gathers the most practical answers so you can stop guessing and start enjoying the planning process.
Invitation & RSVP Basics
First things first: the invite. A clear invitation should include the couple’s names, date, time, venue, dress code, and a way for guests to RSVP. Most experts say you should mail your invites six to eight weeks before the big day, and a reminder goes out two weeks before the RSVP deadline. If you see an “M” on the RSVP card, it simply means “male” – a quick way for the couple to track plus‑ones.
Save‑the‑dates are optional but super helpful, especially for out‑of‑town guests. Send them out as soon as you have a venue and date locked – usually a year in advance for a spring wedding, six months for a summer one. Remember, you only need to send them to people you’re sure you’ll invite.
Gifts, Payments & Pre‑Wedding Traditions
Who pays for the wedding? Traditionally, the bride’s family covered most costs, but today it’s a mix of the couple, both families, and sometimes even friends. Talk openly about budgets early on – it saves a lot of awkward conversations later.
When it comes to gifts, the rules are simple: the groom’s parents often give a gift to the couple, and the bride’s parents may give a larger one or help with specific expenses. For a son’s wedding, parents might contribute to the venue or the honeymoon. If you’re not sure, ask the couple what they need most; many prefer experience gifts like a spa day.
On the night before the wedding, the groom usually hangs out with his best man and the groomsmen. Some couples keep it low‑key with a pizza night, while others go all‑out with a small party. Whatever you choose, make sure it feels relaxed – the goal is to keep nerves in check.
Other etiquette hotspots include bouquet choices and wedding car decorations. Brides often pick bouquets that match the wedding colors and season, and the bride’s family traditionally handles the car décor, though you can delegate it to a trusted friend if you prefer.
All these details can feel overwhelming, but the key is to keep the focus on what matters: celebrating your love. Use the guides on this page to answer specific questions, and don’t be afraid to bend a rule if it makes your day feel more you.
Need a quick checklist? Grab our printable etiquette cheat sheet – it covers invites, RSVP timing, gift ideas, and who should foot the bill. With the right info, you’ll breeze through planning and enjoy every moment leading up to the “I do.”
