A few weeks ago, I was chatting about etiquette rules with some friends, and I thought it might be helpful to share some things NOT to do when you're planning to say, "I DO"! We don't need Emily Post rolling in her grave, now do we? ;-) And yes, these have all actually happened, so even if you'd never think of doing any of these travesties, hopefully you'll get a chuckle that someone actually did!!
*Shower Thank You Notes: it is NOT okay to hand your guests envelopes to address their own thank you notes at your shower AND/OR write what they gave you on a card and put it in that envelope!
*Cash Bar at Your Reception: if your budget is squeezed, opt for a smaller bar package, just beer and wine, or even just a specialty cocktail. Cash bars are tacky, and chances are good that most of your guests won't have cash on them! Better to have NO bar than a cash bar!!
*Opening Gifts: Sure, open your gifts in front of your guests at your showers if you choose to, BUT NO ONE wants to watch you open presents at your reception. Seriously.
*Asking for Cash: If cash is really what you want, this is something that should be communicated verbally from your loved ones to your guests, NEVER printed on an invitation. Keep in mind also that you're going to have guests who want to actually get you something, so don't get upset. After all, it IS a gift!
*Different Entrees than Your Guests: Unless you have dietary restrictions, don't upgrade your own meal so that you're eating something different than your guests. I was a guest at a wedding recently, and the bride and groom chose to have filet and lobster tails when the guests were served stuffed chicken (which was delicious, but it wasn't surf and turf).
If you ever have etiquette questions, don't be afraid to ask your planner! We won't lead you astray, and we'd rather you ask! The only dumb question is the one that remains unasked!!
As always, Happy Planning!
~Melissa
