The Vibe Guide to Wedding Season

Wedding season is upon us! From open bars to dancing under the stars, weddings can be a blast if done correctly. Here are some need-to-know tips for rolling up to someone’s big day.

Are your Instagram feeds clogged with photos of engagement rings? Are you already dreading the bachelorette party hangover? With wedding season just around the corner, it’s time to start strategically planning your survival route. We’ve put together a cheat sheet to get you through wedding season, from attire to gifts to day-of etiquette.

Gifts

There are three main points in the festivities where you give gifts – the actual wedding, the engagement party and the bridal shower. Bridal showers are to ‘shower’ the bride with gifts, so think appropriately. If you’re invited to the bridal shower, you’re probably in the bride’s inner circle, so get personal with your presents!

How much should you spend on a gift? The general rule of thumb is the more you know the couple, the more you spend. You should, however, take into account how much the wedding will cost you. Heading on a destination wedding? Since you’re forking out more on flights, you can skimp a little on the gift. If you don’t have a larger budget, make sure the gift includes a handmade card or a personal touch.

Dress Codes

Has a wedding invitation left you with big question marks above your head? Being underdressed or overdressed at a wedding can be the ultimate awkward occurrence, and figuring out all the terms can be an absolute nightmare. Obviously, never wear white to a wedding (unless otherwise stated) and follow our CliffsNotes guide to the most common dress codes: 

White Tie

This is the most formal dress code. Think floor length gowns for ladies and tuxedos (not suits!) for men. Since this is the most proper of dress codes, slinky floor length gowns are a serious no-go. Think Oscars red carpet.

Black Tie

This is a common dress code for evening weddings. For women, a floor length gown is recommended but you can totally get away with cocktail length. For lads, a tuxedo is the standard, with a vest or cummerbund to match.

Formal or Black Tie Optional

Ladies, cocktail length is a go, but floor length is still an acceptable option.

Semiformal

Also known as dressy casual, cocktail dresses are the best option for women. Men can opt for a regular suit with a coloured tie.

Casual

For the bohemian folks, you’ll run into this dress code if you’re heading to a beach wedding. Leave the heels at home and opt for a sundress. For boys, dress pants and a button up shirt are fine.

S.O.S.! A THEME WEDDING!

You’re bound to run into one of these festivities eventually. Maybe it’s bohemian, cowboy, or God-forbid, Harry Potter. Whatever it is, theme weddings are more popular than ever. Since it’s the happy couple’s big day, not yours, it’s your job and step up and find something festive. Don’t feel obligated to purchase a head-to-toe outfit, a pair of cowboy boots or a witches hat will do just fine!

Etiquette

As much of a hoot weddings can be, there are some formalities that need to be taken care of. Here are some quick etiquette tips to keep in mind so you can be the perfect quest.

RSVP-ing

• Address the invitation. Dress appropriately and respond on time.
• Let the couple know of any food restrictions. But don’t be that person
• If you have to cancel last minute, let the couple know ASAP! A minimum of three months advance is ideal, as that’s when the bride and groom-to-be will be deciding on menus.
• Don’t assume you can bring a guest unless it explicitly says.
• If you have children, inquire if the reception is adults-only.

The Day Of

• There is no such thing as fashionably late. Arrive 30 minutes early than the specified time.
• If the ceremony is a different religion than you practice, it’s alright if you quietly stay in your seat during any religious portions of the ceremony.
• Participate in the receiving line – it may be your only chance to chat with the couple if it’s a larger wedding!
• Sneaking out? Wait until the cake has been cut! Try and say goodbye to an immediate family member if you can’t make it to the couple.

RELATED LINK: The Do’s and Don’ts of Wedding Planning 

Do you have any other tips on appropriate wedding etiquette? Let Vv Magazine know in the comments below or tweet us@ViewTheVibe.