Congratulations on your engagement! As you start the wedding planning process, it’s important to keep in mind the proper etiquette for engaged couples. Here are some do’s and don’ts to follow:

DO:

1. Send out “save the date” cards. These cards let your guests know that you’ve set a date for your wedding and gives them plenty of notice to mark their calendars. This is also a great chance to shoot with the photographer you may want to photograph your wedding!

2. Address invitations properly. Make sure to address your invitations with the proper titles and names for each guest. If you’re not sure how to address someone, it’s better to be overly formal than to make a mistake.

3. Follow traditional wedding attire guidelines. There are certain guidelines to follow when it comes to wedding attire, such as the color of the bridesmaids’ dresses and the type of tuxedo the groomsmen should wear. If your wedding is more formal, ensure to let guests know the dress code. If you’re not much for formalities, let guests know that as well! I’ve seen it all, from couples asking their guests to arrive casual, to asking everyone to wear all black. Whatever you decide, make sure to inform your guests well in advance.

4. Thank your guests for their gifts. It’s important to show your gratitude to your guests for the gifts they’ve given you. Write personalized thank-you notes and send them out within three months of your wedding.

DON’T:

1. Invite guests to your wedding without consulting with your partner. It’s important to make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to your guest list.

2. Leave your guests hanging. If you have a wedding website or a wedding app, make sure to keep it updated with the latest information about your big day. This will help your guests stay informed and know what to expect. Some really important and helpful tips to include are nearby hotels and parking lots/rules for out of town guests.

3. Forget to thank your vendors. Your vendors are a crucial part of your wedding, so make sure to thank them for their hard work. This could be a simple thank-you note or a small gift. While we never expect a physical gift or tip, a thank goes such a long way!

4. Forget to have fun. Above all, your wedding day should be a joyous occasion. Don’t get so caught up in the details that you forget to have fun and enjoy the day with your partner and loved ones. I always encourage my couples to set aside 10-15 minutes to sneak away and enjoy some alone time without family, friends or their photographer.

By following these wedding etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect wedding and making sure everyone has an amazing time!