Being invited to attend a wedding is a great honor. When a couple asks you to share their special day with them, it means you are a person of importance to their relationship. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who make significant errors when it comes to celebrating a marriage. If you want to be the best guest possible, take a look at these common mistakes and learn how to avoid them at all costs.
TheInvited
Couples put a lot of thought behind who is included on their guest lists. This also means they have been deliberate with which guests will receive a plus-one invite. If you were not given the option to bring a date to the event, then you should simply accept this. One of the most uncomfortable mistakes you can make is to reach out to the couple and request a plus-one. The couple likely is working with a tight budget, and asking to bring someone can put them in a very difficult position.
Another common mistake with invitations is failing to RSVP in a timely manner. The longer you wait, the more complicated you are making matters for the couple. You should also stay true to your word and attend an event that you replied “yes” to. If a conflict comes up and you can no longer make it, let the couple know as early as possible so they can adjust their lists accordingly.
The Invited and The Gift
When you’re invited to a wedding, you are also expected to bring a gift. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who forego giving a present. While it is not mandatory to provide a gift, you can bet that the absence will be noticed. To maintain a strong relationship with the couple, find a present that falls within your budget. If there is a registry attached to the event, try to avoid purchasing an item that is not on the official list. For those who don’t have time to grab something from a store, a cash gift is a suitable fit.
The Ceremony
These days, everyone uses their phones to snap a ton of pictures during a wedding ceremony. Since the couple likely hired a professional to photograph the event, you must remain mindful of how you go about taking your own pics. Getting in the way of the photographer is a huge faux pas, so stay in your seat at all times to avoid blocking a perfect shot. It is also important to remain quiet during the ceremony and to put all of your electronic devices on silent in advance.
The Reception
Most wedding receptions feature an open bar for guests. However, this is not an invitation for you to drink so much that you make a fool of yourself. While you should feel free to indulge in a few beverages and enjoy your experience, you must also remain mindful of your limit. The last thing you want to do is ruin a beautiful day by becoming belligerent. It is also a good idea to be polite to the catering staff and any other vendors present during the event. Treat all guests and staff with the same level of respect.
The Odds and Ends
Finally, be sure to pay attention to all information listed on your invitation or the official wedding website. If there is a dress code, plan your outfit in advance. If you need to mention dietary restrictions, do it immediately. Try to avoid bothering the couple with any questions that can be answered by reviewing the information already given to you.
While being a wedding guest can be a lot of fun, you should be mindful of your behavior throughout the experience. Use your best judgment at all times, and help the couple enjoy this special day to the fullest.
We humans are a strange bunch. There’s no rhyme or reason when it comes to how a song or musical work resonates with large segments of the population. Music is usually an integral part of wedding celebrations. From the processional of a wedding party down the aisle to the song chosen as a first dance at the reception, the song selection is an important and intentional decision when it comes to details on the big day. Surprisingly enough, many of the world’s most popular wedding songs either have nothing to do with marriage or are the complete opposite of a happy love song. Let’s explore some of these popular and enduring classics.
Stalking in Songs
If you’re not listening closely, The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” sounds like devotion to a spouse or lover. Listen again and pay closer attention to the lyrics. These are the thoughts of someone who is really obsessed with someone else. The feelings are so strong that the singer is letting the object of his obsession know that he is continuously tormented that they’re not together, so the consolation prize is constant stalking. A marriage should be built on several things. Obsession isn’t one of them.
Songs Of Letting Go
Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” became a global hit when singer Whitney Houston covered it for 1992’s “The Bodyguard” soundtrack. Couples all over the world made this classic a part of their wedding playlists. A closer inspection of the lyrics shows that the singer is mourning a past relationship and saying goodbye to lost love. Viewed through that lens, the song title becomes less romantic affirmation and more of a stalker’s anthem. That won’t stop its popularity as a love song, even for weddings. For what it’s worth, Dolly Parton wrote the song when she was breaking up with a long-time mentor and business partner to go her own way.
Feeling Bitter
Percy Sledge’s “When a Man Loves a Woman” is an enduring soul classic. Percy offers raw, gritty vocals as he runs down the things that a lovestruck man does for the object of his affections. This slow ballad is a go-to for the first dance between the newlyweds at the reception. Who doesn’t love a man being completely vulnerable about his feelings? Revisiting the lyrics reveals that they’re the thoughts of a man who is bitter about the things he did for love.
Carrying On
Canada’s own songbird Celine Dion has built her career on love songs, several of which are popular choices for weddings. Classics like “The Power of Love” and “Because You Loved Me” were chart-toppers in multiple countries, but “My Heart Will Go On” remains her biggest love song. The main theme from the movie “Titanic,” this song describes a woman pledging her love for a lover separated by distance and time. Yes, this song is an ode to a deceased lover. That might not matter to you, given Celine’s powerful, passionate vocals.
Fighting Boredom
“Marry You” by Bruno Mars is a modern go-to, not only for wedding receptions but proposals as well. This oft-misunderstood song describes the decision to say “I do” on a whim because the singer is bored and looking for something to do. Even the lyrics make room for the proposed to break things up given that this wasn’t a serious desire to marry. This up-tempo banger brings the high energy that Bruno Mars fans love, but the lyrics are incongruous with the idea of a serious, lifelong commitment of marriage. Just so we’re clear.
When it comes to wedding music, you and your partner are free to play songs that hold special meaning or bring to mind important times in your relationship. These could be songs of any theme, genre, or era of music. That said, if words matter, you should probably reconsider making some of these songs part of your wedding soundtrack.
There are quite the unique Canadian foods and you may some if not all of them. Whether you’re a foodie or not, one of the most fun and sometimes stressful parts of wedding planning is coming up with a menu. From the rehearsal dinner to the reception, the options are nearly endless for cuisine. When you’re celebrating upcoming nuptials in the Great White North, you may want to display some national pride when deciding what to eat. If so, here are some Canadian dishes for your consideration.
Canadian Go With a Poutine Routine
When it comes to Canadian cuisine, poutine reigns supreme. This classic comfort food dish combines crisp French fries, cheese curds and a rich savory gravy for a meal or snack that feels like home. This casual meal offers versatility for wedding-day eats. It can be served in classic form for a less formal, more homey celebration, or it can be jazzed up for a special occasion. Consider alternative toppings such as pulled pork, bacon or other types of grilled or smoked meat. French fries are available in various form factors, making poutine a dish that’s easy to rework for your menu.
Serve a Tourtière Premiere
When it comes to soul-affirming eats, you can’t go wrong with tourtière. This classic Canadian meat pie dish originates from Quebec. Traditionally, it’s filled with minced pork, veal or beef and potatoes. It’s a popular dish for the holidays up north. It can be a featured menu item at your rehearsal dinner or wedding reception. Although a classic tourtière is hard to beat, you can modify this dish with other proteins, including salmon and wild game. Individual pies make for a heartwarming second or third course, while pre-cut slices are easily retrieved from a buffet or family-style service.
Offer Donair With Flair
Doner, as in doner kebab, is a staple of various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. This meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie has several descendants, including Arabic shawarma, Mexican al pastor, Greek gyros and Canadian donair. Since the early 1970s, donair has been a staple as street food in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A combination of spiced ground beef and sweet sauce served in Lebanese flatbread, this cousin of the gyro sandwich can be scaled down as a small bite for wedding eats. Guests can add their own toppings to suit their particular tastes with this ultra-casual snack.
Turn Tables With Bagels
While many people associate bagels with New York City, Canadians know that Montreal-style bagels are the culinary champs, especially when served as part of a post-wedding brunch or a wedding breakfast meal. These bagels are generally sweeter, denser and thinner than their New York cousins, but they are just as delicious with your favorite bagel toppings, including salmon, lox, cream cheese, capers, compound butters and fruit spreads. A food station that lets guests create the perfectly topped bagel is a great move.
Canadian bacon Take Stake in Bacon
“Canadian bacon” is an American term for a certain style of smoked bacon and has no origins here in the Great White North. Peameal bacon, on the other hand, is a type of unsmoked back bacon that originates in Southern Ontario. It is made from trimmed center-cut pork loin that is cured in a wet salt and sugar brine and rolled in cornmeal. Closer to fresh ham in taste than traditional bacon, peameal bacon has a mild salty and sweet flavor. This protein can be served any time of the day as individual slices in a charcuterie board or as part of a cooked dish.
Choosing the food for your big day or associated events should be part of the fun in getting married. Just as with other aspects of your wedding, it’s up to you and your partner to decide what everyone will eat. These classic Canadian dishes are comforting and can be worked into just about any menu in any format for fun, memorable eats.
Putting together a guest list tends to be one of the more stressful tasks involved with planning a wedding. Often, couples need to be diligent about who is invited in order to avoid going over their budget. Since you are likely working with limited funds, you may struggle with determining which of your guests should receive a plus-one. In order to make your life a bit easier, review these points and learn more about the custom of giving plus-one invites to your guests.
What Is a Plus-One and What Traditions Surround It?
Plus-ones are traditionally given to guests who are not attending your wedding with a spouse or significant other. The extra invite allows these individuals to bring along someone of their choosing, though the additional guest does not necessarily need to be the guest’s romantic partner. There are no hard rules surrounding the tradition of giving out plus-ones. If you have an unlimited budget, you can afford to give every guest this courtesy. Since this is usually not the case, it can be useful to follow a few general guidelines established by modern couples.
Married Couples
Typically, married guests who are asked to attend a wedding are invited as a couple. However, you might not be personally acquainted with the spouses of all your guests. As a rule of thumb, you should always give a plus-one to guests who are married. Some experts advise extending this beyond official marriage, meaning you should provide a plus-one to anyone who is engaged, living together, or in a long-term relationship. Though it is considered the polite thing to do, some couples will forego giving out plus-ones when they must keep to a strict budget.
Dating Exceptions
Though individuals in long-term relationships should be considered for plus-one invites, there are a few exceptions. A couple who has only been casually dating for a few months does not require this courtesy. Some professionals suggest using the “one-year rule.” If the couple has not been officially together for at least a year, you don’t need to consider them for a plus-one.
Wedding Party Members
The members of your wedding party play a vital part in your big day. Since these friends and family members are doing you the honor of being involved in your nuptials, you should always extend the courtesy of a plus-one to them. This is especially true if you are making any serious demands of your party members, such as asking them to spend their own money on expenses like specific outfits and travel. While there are some people you can overlook when giving out plus-ones, your wedding party should not be forgotten.
Colleagues As A Plus-One
Inviting coworkers to a wedding is fairly common. However, it should be noted that you don’t need to follow the same rules with your work associates. Unlike family and close friends, you may not have coworkers in your life for a long while. This means that you should not feel beholden to them, especially when it comes to giving out plus-ones. Naturally, you can make an exception to this in a scenario where you have known the person for a long while and consider the relationship more a friendship than a work connection.
Final Thoughts
Since there are going to be plenty of people who cannot attend your event or cancel at the last minute, you may want to create a reserve list for plus-ones. When a cancellation occurs, reach out to the individuals on your list and let them know that they can bring a plus-one if desired. This is especially helpful if the cancellations happen after you’ve put down your deposits and are locked into a set number of attendees.
Though it can seem awkward, determining who should receive a plus-one for your wedding is important. Work out the details, and you will have a better idea of how to execute this task with success.
Flowers are a huge part of the average wedding. Whether the event is held outdoors and surrounded by nature’s bounty or it takes place inside and away from the natural elements, there are likely going to be countless bursts of colorful blossoms dotting the space. If you’re stuck on which flowers to select, it can sometimes be useful to think outside the box. Understanding the symbolism behind different popular wedding flowers, for example, can provide you with immediate perspective.
No matter what kind of wedding you envision, make sure you have flowers that add the right energy to the event. Review these choices and see if the meaning behind a particular piece of flora is enough to sell you on the arrangement.
Strong and Proud Flowers
One of the more popular flowers included in wedding bouquets in recent years is amaryllis. This is a blossom with a lot of things going for it. The average couple opts for amaryllis in neutral shades. For example, coral is one of the most popular colors because it is understated and still enhances the rest of the scene with its presence. However, this is not true of all versions of this flower. Amaryllis can be found in bold colors like red, which helps to explain why the flower is symbolically connected to the idea of pride.
If you’re bursting with pride over the love you share with your partner, amaryllis in a strong color could be a perfect fit. Experts state that this flower is also connected to the themes of determination and flashiness. Couples tying the knot in the winter will be happy to learn that this is a winter flower, meaning it is typically easier to obtain and less expensive during the colder months.
Beautiful and Fortunate
For couples planning to marry in the spring, cherry blossoms can make for absolutely spectacular flowers to use as décor. Cherry blossoms are so spectacular that people come from all over to witness the trees changing color when the spring hits, with entire festivals all over the world dedicated to this moment for the blossom. If you’d like to include this type of plant in your wedding, you can guarantee it will enhance your event’s overall visuals.
On a symbolic level, it has been said that cherry blossoms are associated with beauty and hope. It is also common for women in different cultures to include these blossoms in their weddings as a way of encouraging good luck with fertility in particular. If you want to have a child right away after your event, this could be a simple way to rouse some luck in your favor. Whether used for its visual appeal or symbolic meaning, it is hard to deny how beautiful cherry blossoms can be.
Big and Bold
Finally, summertime affairs can benefit from a flower that makes a statement. Few blooms are as captivating in this way as the dahlia. Dahlias are large and colorful in a way that makes them a perfect addition to bouquets, garden ceremonies, and more. Beyond this, the dahlia is said to be the flower associated with gratitude and grace. Since these are traits you likely want to embody during your wedding and beyond, it may be the perfect push you need to pick this flower for your event.
Though there are hundreds upon thousands of different types of flowers to consider when putting together wedding décor, you can easily narrow your search by thinking about the symbolic side of things. Learn more about what flowers mean and see if this can help you figure out the right bouquets for your big day.
There’s no real history for the wedding rehearsal dinner, but The Knot suggests that rehearsal dinners became a thing in the 1950s when weddings became more of a theatrical event. Everyone needed a way to come together to be on the same page for the wedding. Today, the rehearsal dinner can be a way for families to have a low-key evening together before the nuptials. The rehearsal dinner can complement the wedding and kick off the festivities. If you’re looking for a way to really make the evening a grand occasion without upstaging the main event, here are some trends in rehearsal dinners.
Pick a Theme
A theme pulls together any party, and a rehearsal dinner is no different. You don’t need to get very elaborate — just choose something that gives you a planning element, such as a favorite color or location. You’re creating an experience for your guests. Even though the rehearsal dinner is a smaller group of people, it’s usually your closest friends and family members, so this gives you an opportunity to be more personal and make the evening more interactive.
Rent a Special Venue
Because this party is smaller than your reception, you can get creative with the location. Hold the rehearsal in the afternoon to let your guests get to the venue at a reasonable hour and get home to sleep before the big day. Look around your community for interesting places: a riverside cruise, the aquarium, a winery or some local attraction. Get creative with the venue for a completely different rehearsal dinner.
Bring in Entertainment
Hire a local band or some other form of entertainment. This eases the host’s duties to make sure everyone is having a good time and lets everyone relax before the big day. Live performers can really infuse personality and fun into your dinner. It doesn’t even have to be musical. Find a flair bartender who turns the cocktail hour into a circus. Acrobats or belly dancers can be very entertaining. Maybe you could have a palm reader or tarot reader to provide personal readings for your guests.
Get Creative With the RehearsalMenu
Remember all those ideas you had for your wedding reception food that might have been too much for a large party? Use some of those ideas at the rehearsal dinner. Host a chocolate fountain or ice cream sundae bar. Have a fire pit to make s’mores after dinner. Create a large charcuterie board. Develop a couple of special cocktails just for the rehearsal dinner. Indulge in that unique entrée you both loved.
Plan Events for Plus-Ones and Out-of-Town Guests
Every rehearsal dinner has that lull at the beginning when the main party hasn’t arrived but the extras are coming in. Put that time to good use by planning activities for the start of the party. Have a photo booth. The wedding party often doesn’t get a chance to enjoy those amenities at the wedding reception. Have some group games available for guests to play while they’re waiting for the rehearsal to wrap up. Find a way for guests to engage with each other informally to ease any tensions between the dates of the bridal party and family from out of town.
Who Hosts the Rehearsal Dinner?
Traditionally, the groom’s family would host and pay for the rehearsal dinner. As weddings are more diverse, traditions are changing. The one thing you can do to make the rehearsal dinner go a little smoother is determine who is responsible for hosting and planning it. Then turn it over to the host.
Your rehearsal dinner may not be the main event, but it’s okay to make it special. Incorporate these ideas or your own to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
The world of social media has become quite vital to the daily lives of countless people across the world. Whether used as a way of sharing pictures, promoting a business or brand, discussing important topics, or showcasing special milestone moments, there are a plethora of reasons people flock to social sites like Instagram and Facebook. For all of the benefits of this connection, however, there are just as many cons. Plenty of people get too invested in social engagement, allowing negative emotions to dominate them when “doomscrolling” through their feeds.
When it comes to weddings, couples tend to be split on the best way to incorporate social media into their events. Some want their guests to keep their phones out and to record and share everything as they please. Others prefer unplugged events where the usage of devices is asked to be kept to a minimum. To figure out a good course of action for your nuptials, look over this quick overview.
The Social Media Moment
If you’ve been to a wedding in the last decade, you likely were one of many people who snapped photos and videos. That also includes shared hashtags, and tagged friends and relatives in albums on social media. It makes sense to want people to capture and promote your big day. As you will want to focus a majority of your own attention on enjoying the event and not looking at your phone. Instead of just being general about how guests go about sharing, you can consider a “social media moment” as part of your celebrations.
Essentially, a social media moment is a chance for all guests to grab some great photos at the same time. For example, you might have something special planned for your first dance with your spouse. Having the emcee give the crowd a slight advance notice to get their cameras out for a “social media moment” can help everyone be prepared for the most sharable and captivating parts of your nuptials.
The Unplugged Affair
On the flip side of things, there is the unplugged wedding. According to countless studies, social media usage has led to huge increases in the number of people who are suffering from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, feelings of inferiority, feelings of apathy, and a myriad of other horrible things. Though most of these problems come from how social media is being managed by the brands that run them, the effects are still very real and very problematic. This has led plenty of couples to move away from digital devices on their big day.
Taking pictures of a wedding might help to capture it forever but it takes the person shooting the photo out of the moment. When all of your guests are watching the wedding through the cameras on their phones, few are actually connecting to what is happening. Pushing for an unplugged wedding doesn’t mean people need to leave their phones in a basket when they enter the venue; it simply means you’re suggesting guests keep usage to a minimum in order to maximize their enjoyment of the wedding.
The Final Thoughts
You don’t necessarily need to go all-or-nothing when you’re exploring your options with social media and your wedding. For a few couples, the decision to use digital devices is placed entirely on the guests. You can create hashtags and ask guests to snap pics of some specific moments for you to encourage a bit of usage, but you can also let guests know that there’s no need to share anything if they don’t feel inclined. When all is said and done, you should pick whatever makes you feel the most excited about your big day.
Think about how you want your event to unfold before you make final decisions on the social media front. With a little time to ponder what you really want, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect fit.
Many people would describe marriage as one of life’s greatest adventures, and weddings and receptions are symbolic of a great send-off. The reception in particular marks the start of this adventure with a party vibe. Usually a great party has music, and where there’s music, there’s generally dancing. Country recording artist John Michael Montgomery released his single “Life’s a Dance” in 1992, in which he remarked, “Life’s a dance, you learn as you go; sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow.” Appropriately enough, a couple’s first dance is a common tradition at the reception. Here are some things you should know.
Boogie Down
As with any marriage celebration, it’s entirely up to the spouses-to-be to decide what’s on the agenda. You may just want to have an open floor where anyone can cut a rug to the music if they choose. Don’t feel pressured to have an official first dance with your new spouse, especially if dancing isn’t something either of you love to do. That said, it’s also okay to acknowledge that your union is a dance that can be symbolized with a first routine.
Put Together a Plan
You and your partner may be naturals on the floor, and if both of you are fine with rocking out to the beat, pick your favorite jam and let loose. Or you can always go for something slower and more romantic. Whatever you decide to do, having a plan can help reduce your stress on the big day. It’s important to do something that is comfortable for both of you. A first dance doesn’t have to be picture-perfect, but it shouldn’t be an embarrassment either. You want it to be a part of your celebration that you both recall fondly.
Hire a Professional
Just as you would hire experienced professionals to take care of food, attire and music, you can also hire a wedding choreographer. If you want your first dance to be choreographed according to a style, go with a pro. This choreographer can put together a special routine based on your strengths and preferences. It’s crucial that you book early. This allows time for you and your partner to practice. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Work It Out
There are other ways to get into the groove with respect to your nuptials. The first dance isn’t the only tradition of its kind at the reception. Consider these other ideas:
Dance with parents or in-laws: Some couples opt to dance with their parents or in-laws, symbolic of a newlywed joining the family and getting “another” set of parents.
Anniversary dance: This is a special dance that acknowledges married couples who’ve been together for a certain length of time.
Wedding party routine: It might be fun for you and the people in your wedding party to do a specially choreographed routine.
You have many options, but you’ll need to gauge the comfort level and ability of participants. Factor in ease of movement when making choices for wedding attire, especially a bridal gown or suit. Sometimes the most fashionable clothes aren’t conducive to shaking a tail feather.
Dance the Night Away
If a party vibe is what you want for the reception, be sure to set that mood with your choices. Between your wedding planner, the venue, the décor and the music, attendees should feel encouraged to move. Make sure there’s ample space for individual and partner dancing. Line dancing can inspire the biggest wallflowers to hit the floor, so let your DJ or band know to include a couple of these songs on the playlist.
You have many options for making dance a part of your special day. From a choreographed first routine to party anthems that bring everyone to their feet, dancing is a celebration of love and the life ahead. Figure out what you and your partner want to do and plan accordingly.
Whether you had a huge, lavish affair or a smaller, more understated gathering, your wedding was a special day. You tied the knot with the love of your life surrounded by your closest friends and family. Your heart is overflowing with love and excitement about the journey ahead, but you’re also brimming with gratitude. Between wedding participants, guests, gift-givers, well-wishers and even professionals, other people helped to make the day one to cherish. Here’s what you should know about expressing your gratitude to others.
Develop a Plan
When you consider all the people to thank, it can be overwhelming to address everyone. You may be tempted to send an e-mail or a text message to friends, but a thoughtfully written note, thank you card or some other token of appreciation is usually best. Crack open an Excel spreadsheet to make a list of everyone you want to acknowledge. You can organize your lists according to the various parts that people played. A handwritten note to gift-givers might be one approach, while you also include a small gift to the people who were in the wedding party or offered services. Coming up with a plan is the best way to make sure that you don’t forget anyone.
Thank Thee Right Away
Many couples follow up a wedding immediately with a honeymoon that keeps them from working on writing thank you notes. As soon as you are back home, you should get started immediately. Start with your wedding party and anyone who played a role in the planning, marriage ceremony, reception and pre-wedding events, such as a stag-and-doe or engagement party. Proceed with those who sent gifts ahead of and on the big day. You may continue to receive presents in the following months. Make a habit of immediately preparing a thank you note upon receipt of future gifts.
Several To Thank, Don’t Go It Alone
It took two to tango, or in this case, get married. Divide up the work between you and your spouse. Consider splitting the work down the middle or divvying up the task based on your strengths. If you’re the one who has the words to say, take care of the notes and let your partner be responsible for stuffing, stamping and sealing envelopes. Gratitude is something that comes from both of you, so it should be a group thing when it’s time to give thanks.
Personalize Your Note
When writing notes, it’s important to tailor them to the recipients. Be specific about the role they played or the gift they gave when you’re handwriting (yes, handwriting) your note. For gift-givers, consider taking a picture of their present so that you can talk specifically about their contribution and how much the two of you appreciate them, their thoughtfulness and their generosity. If some sent money or gift cards, be sure to mention the amount. No gift is too small to acknowledge!
Develop Templates
Coming up with an individual note for everyone who supported you may not be the best use of your time, energy and creativity. It’s ok to use a template or outline based on the people you’re thanking:
Wedding party: Thank them for supporting the two of you on the big day and acknowledge the time, energy and resources that they invested.
Ceremony participants: Tell them how special it was that they lent their talents in making the ceremony special.
Guests: Mention how much their presence and love honored you and your spouse.
Gift-givers: Acknowledge the gift they gave. Be sure to mention details about the present, including its benefit to your lives moving forward. In the case of gifts from couples and families, make it a point to mention everyone involved.
Expressing gratitude to all the people who helped make your nuptials can be a daunting task. It’s important to be organized, intentional and thorough when you’re showing appreciation. Tailored, handwritten notes or cards are always preferable to digital communications such as emails or texts.
A successful wedding is one that perfectly reflects the personalities of the happy couple. Naturally, this is not always so easy to accomplish. If you and your partner like to make jokes and take playful jabs at each other, then a serious atmosphere at your wedding might not be the right fit. Adding some humor to your nuptials is the perfect way to showcase your own silly dispositions on your special day. Best of all, there are plenty of points where a little bit of humor can lighten the mood and improve the flow of your wedding
The Vows
One of the best places to begin infusing humor into your wedding is during the vows. If you decide to write personalized vows to each other, then you have total control over what you include in this speech. Instead of focusing primarily on the serious and sentimental, try to include a couple of jokes or comments that will get the crowd smiling. Not only will it make this aspect of the ceremony more enjoyable, it will also lighten the mood and make it easier for you to deliver the rest of the vows.
The Speeches
Along the same lines as the vows, the speeches given during the reception can also make for a great place to include some jokes. Usually, the people giving speeches are members of the wedding party, like the parents of the couple, the best man, or the maid of honor. While you don’t want to ruin the surprise and read their speeches in advance, you should discuss the topic of humor with them. Jokes are par for the course with such speeches, but you want to make the experience accessible for all. Avoid inside jokes and other references too specific to be appreciated.
The Entertainment
When the reception begins, the duty of keeping guests focused and entertained falls on the vendors you’ve selected. Whether you have a DJ, a live band, or an emcee, you should talk to the contractor in advance to discuss the tone of the evening. Humor is subjective, so you don’t want to give the entertainer free rein over what he or she can say. Whether you want to keep it tasteful or allow for a bit of bawdiness, be direct about what you are okay with in terms of humor.
If you plan on having a photo booth at your wedding, you can also add a bit of silliness to the affair via the props you select. Ridiculous and oversized props like sunglasses, inflatable microphones, and plastic swords can make for wonderful photos and guests who can’t stop laughing. Some rental companies provide prop options, but you might need to go out and grab a handful yourself to ensure there is enough of a variety for everyone to play around with.
The Cake
Perhaps the easiest place to get a laugh from the audience is when the cake is brought out. The tradition of the couple smashing a piece of cake in each other’s faces is one that is not always incorporated into modern weddings. Still, including this ritual is a way of ensuring all of your guests are smiling and trying to get pictures of the mess. If you like a practical joke, it might even be worthwhile to consider bringing a fake cake to fool guests. Have a waiter drop the false cake and see how the crowd responds!
Though an important day in your life, there is no rule stating your wedding needs to be a dull or serious affair. If you want to add humor to your event, then all you need to do is figure out which methods are best for keeping the mood light. With a little thought, you’ll easily figure out the perfect points to include jokes, pranks, and silliness.
Being invited to attend a wedding is a great honor. When a couple asks you to share their special day with them, it means you are a person of importance to their relationship. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who make significant errors when it comes to celebrating a marriage. If you want to be the best guest possible, take a look at these common mistakes and learn how to avoid them at all costs.
TheInvited
Couples put a lot of thought behind who is included on their guest lists. This also means they have been deliberate with which guests will receive a plus-one invite. If you were not given the option to bring a date to the event, then you should simply accept this. One of the most uncomfortable mistakes you can make is to reach out to the couple and request a plus-one. The couple likely is working with a tight budget, and asking to bring someone can put them in a very difficult position.
Another common mistake with invitations is failing to RSVP in a timely manner. The longer you wait, the more complicated you are making matters for the couple. You should also stay true to your word and attend an event that you replied “yes” to. If a conflict comes up and you can no longer make it, let the couple know as early as possible so they can adjust their lists accordingly.
The Invited and The Gift
When you’re invited to a wedding, you are also expected to bring a gift. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who forego giving a present. While it is not mandatory to provide a gift, you can bet that the absence will be noticed. To maintain a strong relationship with the couple, find a present that falls within your budget. If there is a registry attached to the event, try to avoid purchasing an item that is not on the official list. For those who don’t have time to grab something from a store, a cash gift is a suitable fit.
The Ceremony
These days, everyone uses their phones to snap a ton of pictures during a wedding ceremony. Since the couple likely hired a professional to photograph the event, you must remain mindful of how you go about taking your own pics. Getting in the way of the photographer is a huge faux pas, so stay in your seat at all times to avoid blocking a perfect shot. It is also important to remain quiet during the ceremony and to put all of your electronic devices on silent in advance.
The Reception
Most wedding receptions feature an open bar for guests. However, this is not an invitation for you to drink so much that you make a fool of yourself. While you should feel free to indulge in a few beverages and enjoy your experience, you must also remain mindful of your limit. The last thing you want to do is ruin a beautiful day by becoming belligerent. It is also a good idea to be polite to the catering staff and any other vendors present during the event. Treat all guests and staff with the same level of respect.
The Odds and Ends
Finally, be sure to pay attention to all information listed on your invitation or the official wedding website. If there is a dress code, plan your outfit in advance. If you need to mention dietary restrictions, do it immediately. Try to avoid bothering the couple with any questions that can be answered by reviewing the information already given to you.
While being a wedding guest can be a lot of fun, you should be mindful of your behavior throughout the experience. Use your best judgment at all times, and help the couple enjoy this special day to the fullest.
We humans are a strange bunch. There’s no rhyme or reason when it comes to how a song or musical work resonates with large segments of the population. Music is usually an integral part of wedding celebrations. From the processional of a wedding party down the aisle to the song chosen as a first dance at the reception, the song selection is an important and intentional decision when it comes to details on the big day. Surprisingly enough, many of the world’s most popular wedding songs either have nothing to do with marriage or are the complete opposite of a happy love song. Let’s explore some of these popular and enduring classics.
Stalking in Songs
If you’re not listening closely, The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” sounds like devotion to a spouse or lover. Listen again and pay closer attention to the lyrics. These are the thoughts of someone who is really obsessed with someone else. The feelings are so strong that the singer is letting the object of his obsession know that he is continuously tormented that they’re not together, so the consolation prize is constant stalking. A marriage should be built on several things. Obsession isn’t one of them.
Songs Of Letting Go
Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” became a global hit when singer Whitney Houston covered it for 1992’s “The Bodyguard” soundtrack. Couples all over the world made this classic a part of their wedding playlists. A closer inspection of the lyrics shows that the singer is mourning a past relationship and saying goodbye to lost love. Viewed through that lens, the song title becomes less romantic affirmation and more of a stalker’s anthem. That won’t stop its popularity as a love song, even for weddings. For what it’s worth, Dolly Parton wrote the song when she was breaking up with a long-time mentor and business partner to go her own way.
Feeling Bitter
Percy Sledge’s “When a Man Loves a Woman” is an enduring soul classic. Percy offers raw, gritty vocals as he runs down the things that a lovestruck man does for the object of his affections. This slow ballad is a go-to for the first dance between the newlyweds at the reception. Who doesn’t love a man being completely vulnerable about his feelings? Revisiting the lyrics reveals that they’re the thoughts of a man who is bitter about the things he did for love.
Carrying On
Canada’s own songbird Celine Dion has built her career on love songs, several of which are popular choices for weddings. Classics like “The Power of Love” and “Because You Loved Me” were chart-toppers in multiple countries, but “My Heart Will Go On” remains her biggest love song. The main theme from the movie “Titanic,” this song describes a woman pledging her love for a lover separated by distance and time. Yes, this song is an ode to a deceased lover. That might not matter to you, given Celine’s powerful, passionate vocals.
Fighting Boredom
“Marry You” by Bruno Mars is a modern go-to, not only for wedding receptions but proposals as well. This oft-misunderstood song describes the decision to say “I do” on a whim because the singer is bored and looking for something to do. Even the lyrics make room for the proposed to break things up given that this wasn’t a serious desire to marry. This up-tempo banger brings the high energy that Bruno Mars fans love, but the lyrics are incongruous with the idea of a serious, lifelong commitment of marriage. Just so we’re clear.
When it comes to wedding music, you and your partner are free to play songs that hold special meaning or bring to mind important times in your relationship. These could be songs of any theme, genre, or era of music. That said, if words matter, you should probably reconsider making some of these songs part of your wedding soundtrack.
There are quite the unique Canadian foods and you may some if not all of them. Whether you’re a foodie or not, one of the most fun and sometimes stressful parts of wedding planning is coming up with a menu. From the rehearsal dinner to the reception, the options are nearly endless for cuisine. When you’re celebrating upcoming nuptials in the Great White North, you may want to display some national pride when deciding what to eat. If so, here are some Canadian dishes for your consideration.
Canadian Go With a Poutine Routine
When it comes to Canadian cuisine, poutine reigns supreme. This classic comfort food dish combines crisp French fries, cheese curds and a rich savory gravy for a meal or snack that feels like home. This casual meal offers versatility for wedding-day eats. It can be served in classic form for a less formal, more homey celebration, or it can be jazzed up for a special occasion. Consider alternative toppings such as pulled pork, bacon or other types of grilled or smoked meat. French fries are available in various form factors, making poutine a dish that’s easy to rework for your menu.
Serve a Tourtière Premiere
When it comes to soul-affirming eats, you can’t go wrong with tourtière. This classic Canadian meat pie dish originates from Quebec. Traditionally, it’s filled with minced pork, veal or beef and potatoes. It’s a popular dish for the holidays up north. It can be a featured menu item at your rehearsal dinner or wedding reception. Although a classic tourtière is hard to beat, you can modify this dish with other proteins, including salmon and wild game. Individual pies make for a heartwarming second or third course, while pre-cut slices are easily retrieved from a buffet or family-style service.
Offer Donair With Flair
Doner, as in doner kebab, is a staple of various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. This meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie has several descendants, including Arabic shawarma, Mexican al pastor, Greek gyros and Canadian donair. Since the early 1970s, donair has been a staple as street food in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A combination of spiced ground beef and sweet sauce served in Lebanese flatbread, this cousin of the gyro sandwich can be scaled down as a small bite for wedding eats. Guests can add their own toppings to suit their particular tastes with this ultra-casual snack.
Turn Tables With Bagels
While many people associate bagels with New York City, Canadians know that Montreal-style bagels are the culinary champs, especially when served as part of a post-wedding brunch or a wedding breakfast meal. These bagels are generally sweeter, denser and thinner than their New York cousins, but they are just as delicious with your favorite bagel toppings, including salmon, lox, cream cheese, capers, compound butters and fruit spreads. A food station that lets guests create the perfectly topped bagel is a great move.
Canadian bacon Take Stake in Bacon
“Canadian bacon” is an American term for a certain style of smoked bacon and has no origins here in the Great White North. Peameal bacon, on the other hand, is a type of unsmoked back bacon that originates in Southern Ontario. It is made from trimmed center-cut pork loin that is cured in a wet salt and sugar brine and rolled in cornmeal. Closer to fresh ham in taste than traditional bacon, peameal bacon has a mild salty and sweet flavor. This protein can be served any time of the day as individual slices in a charcuterie board or as part of a cooked dish.
Choosing the food for your big day or associated events should be part of the fun in getting married. Just as with other aspects of your wedding, it’s up to you and your partner to decide what everyone will eat. These classic Canadian dishes are comforting and can be worked into just about any menu in any format for fun, memorable eats.
Putting together a guest list tends to be one of the more stressful tasks involved with planning a wedding. Often, couples need to be diligent about who is invited in order to avoid going over their budget. Since you are likely working with limited funds, you may struggle with determining which of your guests should receive a plus-one. In order to make your life a bit easier, review these points and learn more about the custom of giving plus-one invites to your guests.
What Is a Plus-One and What Traditions Surround It?
Plus-ones are traditionally given to guests who are not attending your wedding with a spouse or significant other. The extra invite allows these individuals to bring along someone of their choosing, though the additional guest does not necessarily need to be the guest’s romantic partner. There are no hard rules surrounding the tradition of giving out plus-ones. If you have an unlimited budget, you can afford to give every guest this courtesy. Since this is usually not the case, it can be useful to follow a few general guidelines established by modern couples.
Married Couples
Typically, married guests who are asked to attend a wedding are invited as a couple. However, you might not be personally acquainted with the spouses of all your guests. As a rule of thumb, you should always give a plus-one to guests who are married. Some experts advise extending this beyond official marriage, meaning you should provide a plus-one to anyone who is engaged, living together, or in a long-term relationship. Though it is considered the polite thing to do, some couples will forego giving out plus-ones when they must keep to a strict budget.
Dating Exceptions
Though individuals in long-term relationships should be considered for plus-one invites, there are a few exceptions. A couple who has only been casually dating for a few months does not require this courtesy. Some professionals suggest using the “one-year rule.” If the couple has not been officially together for at least a year, you don’t need to consider them for a plus-one.
Wedding Party Members
The members of your wedding party play a vital part in your big day. Since these friends and family members are doing you the honor of being involved in your nuptials, you should always extend the courtesy of a plus-one to them. This is especially true if you are making any serious demands of your party members, such as asking them to spend their own money on expenses like specific outfits and travel. While there are some people you can overlook when giving out plus-ones, your wedding party should not be forgotten.
Colleagues As A Plus-One
Inviting coworkers to a wedding is fairly common. However, it should be noted that you don’t need to follow the same rules with your work associates. Unlike family and close friends, you may not have coworkers in your life for a long while. This means that you should not feel beholden to them, especially when it comes to giving out plus-ones. Naturally, you can make an exception to this in a scenario where you have known the person for a long while and consider the relationship more a friendship than a work connection.
Final Thoughts
Since there are going to be plenty of people who cannot attend your event or cancel at the last minute, you may want to create a reserve list for plus-ones. When a cancellation occurs, reach out to the individuals on your list and let them know that they can bring a plus-one if desired. This is especially helpful if the cancellations happen after you’ve put down your deposits and are locked into a set number of attendees.
Though it can seem awkward, determining who should receive a plus-one for your wedding is important. Work out the details, and you will have a better idea of how to execute this task with success.
Flowers are a huge part of the average wedding. Whether the event is held outdoors and surrounded by nature’s bounty or it takes place inside and away from the natural elements, there are likely going to be countless bursts of colorful blossoms dotting the space. If you’re stuck on which flowers to select, it can sometimes be useful to think outside the box. Understanding the symbolism behind different popular wedding flowers, for example, can provide you with immediate perspective.
No matter what kind of wedding you envision, make sure you have flowers that add the right energy to the event. Review these choices and see if the meaning behind a particular piece of flora is enough to sell you on the arrangement.
Strong and Proud Flowers
One of the more popular flowers included in wedding bouquets in recent years is amaryllis. This is a blossom with a lot of things going for it. The average couple opts for amaryllis in neutral shades. For example, coral is one of the most popular colors because it is understated and still enhances the rest of the scene with its presence. However, this is not true of all versions of this flower. Amaryllis can be found in bold colors like red, which helps to explain why the flower is symbolically connected to the idea of pride.
If you’re bursting with pride over the love you share with your partner, amaryllis in a strong color could be a perfect fit. Experts state that this flower is also connected to the themes of determination and flashiness. Couples tying the knot in the winter will be happy to learn that this is a winter flower, meaning it is typically easier to obtain and less expensive during the colder months.
Beautiful and Fortunate
For couples planning to marry in the spring, cherry blossoms can make for absolutely spectacular flowers to use as décor. Cherry blossoms are so spectacular that people come from all over to witness the trees changing color when the spring hits, with entire festivals all over the world dedicated to this moment for the blossom. If you’d like to include this type of plant in your wedding, you can guarantee it will enhance your event’s overall visuals.
On a symbolic level, it has been said that cherry blossoms are associated with beauty and hope. It is also common for women in different cultures to include these blossoms in their weddings as a way of encouraging good luck with fertility in particular. If you want to have a child right away after your event, this could be a simple way to rouse some luck in your favor. Whether used for its visual appeal or symbolic meaning, it is hard to deny how beautiful cherry blossoms can be.
Big and Bold
Finally, summertime affairs can benefit from a flower that makes a statement. Few blooms are as captivating in this way as the dahlia. Dahlias are large and colorful in a way that makes them a perfect addition to bouquets, garden ceremonies, and more. Beyond this, the dahlia is said to be the flower associated with gratitude and grace. Since these are traits you likely want to embody during your wedding and beyond, it may be the perfect push you need to pick this flower for your event.
Though there are hundreds upon thousands of different types of flowers to consider when putting together wedding décor, you can easily narrow your search by thinking about the symbolic side of things. Learn more about what flowers mean and see if this can help you figure out the right bouquets for your big day.
There’s no real history for the wedding rehearsal dinner, but The Knot suggests that rehearsal dinners became a thing in the 1950s when weddings became more of a theatrical event. Everyone needed a way to come together to be on the same page for the wedding. Today, the rehearsal dinner can be a way for families to have a low-key evening together before the nuptials. The rehearsal dinner can complement the wedding and kick off the festivities. If you’re looking for a way to really make the evening a grand occasion without upstaging the main event, here are some trends in rehearsal dinners.
Pick a Theme
A theme pulls together any party, and a rehearsal dinner is no different. You don’t need to get very elaborate — just choose something that gives you a planning element, such as a favorite color or location. You’re creating an experience for your guests. Even though the rehearsal dinner is a smaller group of people, it’s usually your closest friends and family members, so this gives you an opportunity to be more personal and make the evening more interactive.
Rent a Special Venue
Because this party is smaller than your reception, you can get creative with the location. Hold the rehearsal in the afternoon to let your guests get to the venue at a reasonable hour and get home to sleep before the big day. Look around your community for interesting places: a riverside cruise, the aquarium, a winery or some local attraction. Get creative with the venue for a completely different rehearsal dinner.
Bring in Entertainment
Hire a local band or some other form of entertainment. This eases the host’s duties to make sure everyone is having a good time and lets everyone relax before the big day. Live performers can really infuse personality and fun into your dinner. It doesn’t even have to be musical. Find a flair bartender who turns the cocktail hour into a circus. Acrobats or belly dancers can be very entertaining. Maybe you could have a palm reader or tarot reader to provide personal readings for your guests.
Get Creative With the RehearsalMenu
Remember all those ideas you had for your wedding reception food that might have been too much for a large party? Use some of those ideas at the rehearsal dinner. Host a chocolate fountain or ice cream sundae bar. Have a fire pit to make s’mores after dinner. Create a large charcuterie board. Develop a couple of special cocktails just for the rehearsal dinner. Indulge in that unique entrée you both loved.
Plan Events for Plus-Ones and Out-of-Town Guests
Every rehearsal dinner has that lull at the beginning when the main party hasn’t arrived but the extras are coming in. Put that time to good use by planning activities for the start of the party. Have a photo booth. The wedding party often doesn’t get a chance to enjoy those amenities at the wedding reception. Have some group games available for guests to play while they’re waiting for the rehearsal to wrap up. Find a way for guests to engage with each other informally to ease any tensions between the dates of the bridal party and family from out of town.
Who Hosts the Rehearsal Dinner?
Traditionally, the groom’s family would host and pay for the rehearsal dinner. As weddings are more diverse, traditions are changing. The one thing you can do to make the rehearsal dinner go a little smoother is determine who is responsible for hosting and planning it. Then turn it over to the host.
Your rehearsal dinner may not be the main event, but it’s okay to make it special. Incorporate these ideas or your own to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
The world of social media has become quite vital to the daily lives of countless people across the world. Whether used as a way of sharing pictures, promoting a business or brand, discussing important topics, or showcasing special milestone moments, there are a plethora of reasons people flock to social sites like Instagram and Facebook. For all of the benefits of this connection, however, there are just as many cons. Plenty of people get too invested in social engagement, allowing negative emotions to dominate them when “doomscrolling” through their feeds.
When it comes to weddings, couples tend to be split on the best way to incorporate social media into their events. Some want their guests to keep their phones out and to record and share everything as they please. Others prefer unplugged events where the usage of devices is asked to be kept to a minimum. To figure out a good course of action for your nuptials, look over this quick overview.
The Social Media Moment
If you’ve been to a wedding in the last decade, you likely were one of many people who snapped photos and videos. That also includes shared hashtags, and tagged friends and relatives in albums on social media. It makes sense to want people to capture and promote your big day. As you will want to focus a majority of your own attention on enjoying the event and not looking at your phone. Instead of just being general about how guests go about sharing, you can consider a “social media moment” as part of your celebrations.
Essentially, a social media moment is a chance for all guests to grab some great photos at the same time. For example, you might have something special planned for your first dance with your spouse. Having the emcee give the crowd a slight advance notice to get their cameras out for a “social media moment” can help everyone be prepared for the most sharable and captivating parts of your nuptials.
The Unplugged Affair
On the flip side of things, there is the unplugged wedding. According to countless studies, social media usage has led to huge increases in the number of people who are suffering from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, feelings of inferiority, feelings of apathy, and a myriad of other horrible things. Though most of these problems come from how social media is being managed by the brands that run them, the effects are still very real and very problematic. This has led plenty of couples to move away from digital devices on their big day.
Taking pictures of a wedding might help to capture it forever but it takes the person shooting the photo out of the moment. When all of your guests are watching the wedding through the cameras on their phones, few are actually connecting to what is happening. Pushing for an unplugged wedding doesn’t mean people need to leave their phones in a basket when they enter the venue; it simply means you’re suggesting guests keep usage to a minimum in order to maximize their enjoyment of the wedding.
The Final Thoughts
You don’t necessarily need to go all-or-nothing when you’re exploring your options with social media and your wedding. For a few couples, the decision to use digital devices is placed entirely on the guests. You can create hashtags and ask guests to snap pics of some specific moments for you to encourage a bit of usage, but you can also let guests know that there’s no need to share anything if they don’t feel inclined. When all is said and done, you should pick whatever makes you feel the most excited about your big day.
Think about how you want your event to unfold before you make final decisions on the social media front. With a little time to ponder what you really want, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect fit.
Many people would describe marriage as one of life’s greatest adventures, and weddings and receptions are symbolic of a great send-off. The reception in particular marks the start of this adventure with a party vibe. Usually a great party has music, and where there’s music, there’s generally dancing. Country recording artist John Michael Montgomery released his single “Life’s a Dance” in 1992, in which he remarked, “Life’s a dance, you learn as you go; sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow.” Appropriately enough, a couple’s first dance is a common tradition at the reception. Here are some things you should know.
Boogie Down
As with any marriage celebration, it’s entirely up to the spouses-to-be to decide what’s on the agenda. You may just want to have an open floor where anyone can cut a rug to the music if they choose. Don’t feel pressured to have an official first dance with your new spouse, especially if dancing isn’t something either of you love to do. That said, it’s also okay to acknowledge that your union is a dance that can be symbolized with a first routine.
Put Together a Plan
You and your partner may be naturals on the floor, and if both of you are fine with rocking out to the beat, pick your favorite jam and let loose. Or you can always go for something slower and more romantic. Whatever you decide to do, having a plan can help reduce your stress on the big day. It’s important to do something that is comfortable for both of you. A first dance doesn’t have to be picture-perfect, but it shouldn’t be an embarrassment either. You want it to be a part of your celebration that you both recall fondly.
Hire a Professional
Just as you would hire experienced professionals to take care of food, attire and music, you can also hire a wedding choreographer. If you want your first dance to be choreographed according to a style, go with a pro. This choreographer can put together a special routine based on your strengths and preferences. It’s crucial that you book early. This allows time for you and your partner to practice. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Work It Out
There are other ways to get into the groove with respect to your nuptials. The first dance isn’t the only tradition of its kind at the reception. Consider these other ideas:
Dance with parents or in-laws: Some couples opt to dance with their parents or in-laws, symbolic of a newlywed joining the family and getting “another” set of parents.
Anniversary dance: This is a special dance that acknowledges married couples who’ve been together for a certain length of time.
Wedding party routine: It might be fun for you and the people in your wedding party to do a specially choreographed routine.
You have many options, but you’ll need to gauge the comfort level and ability of participants. Factor in ease of movement when making choices for wedding attire, especially a bridal gown or suit. Sometimes the most fashionable clothes aren’t conducive to shaking a tail feather.
Dance the Night Away
If a party vibe is what you want for the reception, be sure to set that mood with your choices. Between your wedding planner, the venue, the décor and the music, attendees should feel encouraged to move. Make sure there’s ample space for individual and partner dancing. Line dancing can inspire the biggest wallflowers to hit the floor, so let your DJ or band know to include a couple of these songs on the playlist.
You have many options for making dance a part of your special day. From a choreographed first routine to party anthems that bring everyone to their feet, dancing is a celebration of love and the life ahead. Figure out what you and your partner want to do and plan accordingly.
Whether you had a huge, lavish affair or a smaller, more understated gathering, your wedding was a special day. You tied the knot with the love of your life surrounded by your closest friends and family. Your heart is overflowing with love and excitement about the journey ahead, but you’re also brimming with gratitude. Between wedding participants, guests, gift-givers, well-wishers and even professionals, other people helped to make the day one to cherish. Here’s what you should know about expressing your gratitude to others.
Develop a Plan
When you consider all the people to thank, it can be overwhelming to address everyone. You may be tempted to send an e-mail or a text message to friends, but a thoughtfully written note, thank you card or some other token of appreciation is usually best. Crack open an Excel spreadsheet to make a list of everyone you want to acknowledge. You can organize your lists according to the various parts that people played. A handwritten note to gift-givers might be one approach, while you also include a small gift to the people who were in the wedding party or offered services. Coming up with a plan is the best way to make sure that you don’t forget anyone.
Thank Thee Right Away
Many couples follow up a wedding immediately with a honeymoon that keeps them from working on writing thank you notes. As soon as you are back home, you should get started immediately. Start with your wedding party and anyone who played a role in the planning, marriage ceremony, reception and pre-wedding events, such as a stag-and-doe or engagement party. Proceed with those who sent gifts ahead of and on the big day. You may continue to receive presents in the following months. Make a habit of immediately preparing a thank you note upon receipt of future gifts.
Several To Thank, Don’t Go It Alone
It took two to tango, or in this case, get married. Divide up the work between you and your spouse. Consider splitting the work down the middle or divvying up the task based on your strengths. If you’re the one who has the words to say, take care of the notes and let your partner be responsible for stuffing, stamping and sealing envelopes. Gratitude is something that comes from both of you, so it should be a group thing when it’s time to give thanks.
Personalize Your Note
When writing notes, it’s important to tailor them to the recipients. Be specific about the role they played or the gift they gave when you’re handwriting (yes, handwriting) your note. For gift-givers, consider taking a picture of their present so that you can talk specifically about their contribution and how much the two of you appreciate them, their thoughtfulness and their generosity. If some sent money or gift cards, be sure to mention the amount. No gift is too small to acknowledge!
Develop Templates
Coming up with an individual note for everyone who supported you may not be the best use of your time, energy and creativity. It’s ok to use a template or outline based on the people you’re thanking:
Wedding party: Thank them for supporting the two of you on the big day and acknowledge the time, energy and resources that they invested.
Ceremony participants: Tell them how special it was that they lent their talents in making the ceremony special.
Guests: Mention how much their presence and love honored you and your spouse.
Gift-givers: Acknowledge the gift they gave. Be sure to mention details about the present, including its benefit to your lives moving forward. In the case of gifts from couples and families, make it a point to mention everyone involved.
Expressing gratitude to all the people who helped make your nuptials can be a daunting task. It’s important to be organized, intentional and thorough when you’re showing appreciation. Tailored, handwritten notes or cards are always preferable to digital communications such as emails or texts.
A successful wedding is one that perfectly reflects the personalities of the happy couple. Naturally, this is not always so easy to accomplish. If you and your partner like to make jokes and take playful jabs at each other, then a serious atmosphere at your wedding might not be the right fit. Adding some humor to your nuptials is the perfect way to showcase your own silly dispositions on your special day. Best of all, there are plenty of points where a little bit of humor can lighten the mood and improve the flow of your wedding
The Vows
One of the best places to begin infusing humor into your wedding is during the vows. If you decide to write personalized vows to each other, then you have total control over what you include in this speech. Instead of focusing primarily on the serious and sentimental, try to include a couple of jokes or comments that will get the crowd smiling. Not only will it make this aspect of the ceremony more enjoyable, it will also lighten the mood and make it easier for you to deliver the rest of the vows.
The Speeches
Along the same lines as the vows, the speeches given during the reception can also make for a great place to include some jokes. Usually, the people giving speeches are members of the wedding party, like the parents of the couple, the best man, or the maid of honor. While you don’t want to ruin the surprise and read their speeches in advance, you should discuss the topic of humor with them. Jokes are par for the course with such speeches, but you want to make the experience accessible for all. Avoid inside jokes and other references too specific to be appreciated.
The Entertainment
When the reception begins, the duty of keeping guests focused and entertained falls on the vendors you’ve selected. Whether you have a DJ, a live band, or an emcee, you should talk to the contractor in advance to discuss the tone of the evening. Humor is subjective, so you don’t want to give the entertainer free rein over what he or she can say. Whether you want to keep it tasteful or allow for a bit of bawdiness, be direct about what you are okay with in terms of humor.
If you plan on having a photo booth at your wedding, you can also add a bit of silliness to the affair via the props you select. Ridiculous and oversized props like sunglasses, inflatable microphones, and plastic swords can make for wonderful photos and guests who can’t stop laughing. Some rental companies provide prop options, but you might need to go out and grab a handful yourself to ensure there is enough of a variety for everyone to play around with.
The Cake
Perhaps the easiest place to get a laugh from the audience is when the cake is brought out. The tradition of the couple smashing a piece of cake in each other’s faces is one that is not always incorporated into modern weddings. Still, including this ritual is a way of ensuring all of your guests are smiling and trying to get pictures of the mess. If you like a practical joke, it might even be worthwhile to consider bringing a fake cake to fool guests. Have a waiter drop the false cake and see how the crowd responds!
Though an important day in your life, there is no rule stating your wedding needs to be a dull or serious affair. If you want to add humor to your event, then all you need to do is figure out which methods are best for keeping the mood light. With a little thought, you’ll easily figure out the perfect points to include jokes, pranks, and silliness.
