20 Non-Negotiable Wedding Rules for a Flawless Celebration

Navigating the complexities of wedding etiquette can be challenging, but certain guidelines remain timeless for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you're a member of the wedding party or a guest, adhering to these fundamental principles demonstrates respect and consideration.

 20 Wedding Etiquettes That Will Save You Stress, Money, and Drama

For the Couple

1. Guest List Protocol: Extend invitations to pre-wedding events, such as a bridal shower or engagement party, only to those who will also be invited to the wedding itself. It means don't invite someone to a pre-wedding party if you don't plan on inviting them to the wedding. Inviting someone to your shower and not the big day? That's a no-no.
2. Registry Information: Never include registry information on the wedding invitation. Instead, provide a link to your wedding website on the stationery, where guests can find all relevant details, including your registry.
3. Formal Communication: Always use formal methods for all wedding-related communication. This includes sending physical invitations and handwritten thank-you notes. Never invite a guest to your wedding via text message or social media platform. A little bit of thought goes a long way. And the same goes for thank-you notes!
4. Save the Dates and Invitations: If a save-the-date is sent, a formal wedding invitation must follow, even if the guest has already indicated they cannot attend.
5. Plus-One Names: If you know the name of a guest's plus one, include it on the invitation to make them feel welcome. If the guest has yet to secure a date, the traditional "and Guest" is fine.
6. Postage for RSVPs: Provide pre-stamped and pre-addressed RSVP envelopes for your guests' convenience, so guests don't need to purchase postage.
7. Marriage License: Obtain your marriage license well in advance of the wedding date, while also being mindful of your state's specific regulations and validity window.
8. Vendor Meals: Plan to provide meals for all wedding vendors who will be working throughout the event, such as your planner, photographer, and band. Everyone is working hard for you all day long. Make sure to speak to your caterer about supplying them with meals.
9. Thank-You Notes: A thoughtful, handwritten thank-you note is mandatory for every gift received. No ifs, ands, or buts! A thoughtful, handwritten note is always best.

Order: formal acrylic wedding invitations

For the Guest

1. RSVP with Certainty: Do not RSVP "yes" if your attendance is uncertain. Communicate any hesitations with the couple directly to avoid issues with the final headcount.
2. RSVP with Plus-One's Name: If you are bringing a guest, provide their full name on the RSVP card so the couple can include it on the guest list, escort cards, and any printed materials.
3. Timely RSVP: Submit your RSVP by the deadline specified on the invitation.
4. Children and Invitations: Respect the couple's wishes regarding children. If the invitation states "no children," do not ask for an exception. If the policy is unclear, a polite inquiry is appropriate. Feel free to reach out to the couple about local babysitters or other childcare options.
5. Respecting the Plus-One Policy: If your invitation is addressed only to you, do not assume you can bring a guest. Likewise, if a specific person is named as your plus one and they cannot attend, do not bring a substitute without first consulting the couple. Unless the bride or groom has given you the green light, the only people invited to the wedding are those addressed on the envelope.
6. If you don't get a plus one, don't bring a plus one. If you're invitation doesn't say "and Guest," then it's safe to assume that you've been invited solo. Your best off not asking the couple to make exceptions.
7. Punctuality: Arrive at all wedding events on time as a sign of respect for the couple and the schedule they have planned.
8. Attend the Ceremony: The ceremony is the most important part of the day. Do not skip it in favor of arriving only for the reception. Your presence at the actual "I do's" is a must.
9. Phone Etiquette: Ensure your phone is silenced during all wedding events to avoid disruptions. While some couples may be okay with smartphone photos, turn off the flash sound, ringer, alarms, vibration, and any other disruptive alert. 
10. Dress Code: Do not wear a white, cream, or ivory dress unless the couple has explicitly requested it. This color is traditionally reserved for the bride. At promboutiqueonline.com, it is easy and affordable to get a custom-tailored right fitting wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride and groom dresses. 
11. Don't get too drunk: Enjoy the open bar, but be mindful of your consumption to avoid causing a scene and to ensure you can travel home safely.