Wedding Etiquette: The Rules to Follow for an Unforgettable Day

Organizing a wedding does not only mean taking care of aesthetic and logistical details, but also respecting some rules of etiquette that guarantee elegance and harmony during the event. Here is a guide to follow wedding etiquette and ensure a flawless ceremony.

Giulia Restuccia

3/14/2025

1. Invitations and Guest List

Invitations must be sent at least 3 months before the wedding date.

They must be written clearly and formally, including all essential information (date, location, time and dress code if applicable).

It is good practice to confirm attendance within the deadline indicated by the spouses.

2. Arrival and Place of Guests

• Guests should arrive at least 15-30 minutes before the ceremony to avoid delays.

• In the church or ceremony venue, the traditional seating arrangement is for the bride’s guests to sit on the left and the groom’s guests to sit on the right.

• During the ceremony, it is important to maintain respectful and quiet behavior.

3. The Perfect Dress Code

• Guests must respect the dress code indicated on the invitation. In the absence of indications, etiquette suggests elegant and sober clothes.

• Avoid white, reserved exclusively for the bride.

• For evening weddings, men should opt for a dark suit, while women can choose long or refined cocktail dresses.

4. The Role of the Spouses and Witnesses

• The groom and bride must welcome guests with cordiality and a smile.

• Witnesses have an important role and should support the bride and groom at every moment of the day, from official signatures to speeches.

• It is good practice for the parents of the bride and groom to take care of welcoming the most important guests.

5. The Rite and the Reception

• During the ceremony, phones should be kept silent or turned off.

• At the reception, it is important to wait until the bride and groom have started eating before starting the meal.

• The toast to the bride and groom should be done elegantly, avoiding excessively long or inappropriate speeches.

6. Gift Etiquette

• Guests should follow the wedding registry, if available, to make it easier to choose a gift.

• If you opt for an envelope with a financial contribution, it is recommended to present it in a well-packaged envelope.

• A personalized letter or greeting card is always appreciated.

7. The Rules for the Bouquet Toss

• Tradition dictates that the bouquet toss is reserved for unmarried guests.

• If the bride and groom opt for a more modern version, they can choose to give the bouquet to a special person instead of tossing it.

8. The Cutting of the Cake and the Conclusion of the Party

• The cutting of the cake marks one of the most important moments of the ceremony and should be done by the bride and groom together.

• It is good practice for guests to wait for the cutting of the cake before leaving the reception.

• At the end of the party, the bride and groom should personally greet the guests and thank them for their participation.

Following wedding etiquette does not mean giving up spontaneity, but ensuring that every moment is lived with class and elegance. By respecting these simple rules, the wedding will be a harmonious and unforgettable event for everyone.

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