Proper Wedding Etiquette for a Great Ceremony
Jul 4th, 2008 by Resa Heart
For a wonderful wedding day to commence for a couple there has to be some organization and precision to the events leading up to and during the ceremony. This includes knowing what the proper wedding etiquette for certain aspects of the big day should be not only for the bride and groom, but also the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and the guests. Failure to follow good etiquette may not necessarily ruin a ceremony, but can certainly hurt feelings and possibly the tradition that was the main goal of decorum for the ceremony.
On the part of the groomsmen and bridesmaids, the wedding should be a place of celebration but also support for the bride. Many ceremonies have bridesmaids who try to be the center of attention at a ceremony or reception - this is certainly poor behavior. The day is about the couple being married, and as such should focus on their happenings. Upstaging the bride or groom is something that is all too common, and should be avoided particularly by the groomsmen and bridesmaids.
In the ceremony stage of the wedding, it is important for the guests of the nuptials to be respectful of the sanctity of the ceremony. Many guests act at a wedding as though they are in another public forum where certain behaviors are allowed or encouraged. Guests should be sure that they remain quiet through the ceremony unless asked to speak or pray, and should also refrain from getting up to use the restroom or be so unkind as to fall asleep or make unnecessary noise throughout the ceremony.
It is quite important for the bride and groom’s parents to follow these basic rules because they are more likely to have attention focused on them as well. If a parent is crying out in happiness during the wedding, this will most certainly cause a distraction that can interrupt the vows and ultimately create a terrible spectacle.
The bridal couple should also keep in mind certain wedding etiquette on the special day. Some tradition should be followed; not only will this keep the ceremony more organized, but it will also ensure that family traditions will be followed as well. Furthermore, the groom and bride should really try to make each guest feel welcomed and comfortable throughout the entire wedding ceremony and reception. Remember, a reception is very similar to a large dinner party, so every effort should be made to make sure guests are comfortable at the event.
Which brings me to the gift giving. Generally, the bride and groom have registered at a store for gifts that they feel would be beneficial to their new life and new home together. When shopping for gifts, guests should do their best to stick to the registry as best they can. Most couples understand that not everything they want will be in everyone’s price range, and so will put a few smaller items on the list. If you are unable to find something on the gift registry, then a gift of cash is always acceptable. Just don’t go overboard.