Wedding Etiquette Questions You Were Afraid to Ask (Answered!)
Let’s be real—wedding etiquette can feel like one big minefield. And if you’re quietly Googling “how much to spend on bridesmaid gifts” at midnight or stressing about how to word your invitations without offending Aunt Linda… you're not alone.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you're planning a black-tie affair or a backyard bash, here are some of the most common (and awkward!) wedding etiquette questions—completely demystified.
So, deep breath. Let’s talk it out 💁♀️
5 Common Wedding Questions That Most Couples Are Afraid To Ask (+ The Answers)
Can I invite some people to the ceremony but not the reception?
Technically… yes. But emotionally? Be careful here. Inviting guests to your ceremony only can make some people feel like “second-tier” guests. If you’re doing a super intimate dinner or elopement celebration later, it helps to explain that clearly in your wording. Try something like:
“We’re celebrating with a small family dinner afterward, but your presence at the ceremony would mean the world to us!”
Clarity and kindness go a long way.
Do I really have to give my vendors a tip?
This one’s a biggie! The short answer: not always required, but always appreciated.
Some vendors (like caterers or venues) might include gratuity in their contract – double-check that fine print. For others, like your hair stylist, makeup artist, planner, or photographer, tips are optional but thoughtful. A sweet thank-you card and a glowing review go a long way too.
Pro tip: If tipping feels awkward, have your wedding planner handle envelopes on the day-of.
Speaking of vendors, here are my top recs for Georgia and Florida weddings!
Do my bridesmaids have to wear the same dress?
Not at all! Uniform dresses are totally out if that’s not your vibe. Mix-and-match bridesmaid looks are not only trendy, but they also let your girls feel comfortable and confident.
Give them a color palette and general style guidance (think “floor-length in dusty blue, chiffon or satin”) and let them choose a dress that fits their body and budget.
Bonus: You’ll avoid group text drama and “I’m never wearing this again” side-eyes.
Is it rude to say “no kids allowed”?
Nope! Your wedding = your rules. But how you say it matters.
Avoid writing “no kids” on the invitation. Instead, address invites only to the adults and include a line on your website like:
“As much as we love your little ones, we’re keeping this celebration adults-only. Thank you for understanding!”
Want to soften it even more? Offer to help connect guests with a local sitter or host a kids’ party separately.
Is it okay to have a registry and a honeymoon fund?
Totally okay. Most modern couples do both! Just make sure your registry site combines all your options in one place, so guests aren’t confused.
And never, ever ask for cash outright on your invitation! Keep that for your wedding website where you can say something like:
“We’re so lucky to already have a cozy home full of things. If you’d like to contribute to our honeymoon adventure, we’d be so grateful!”
Overall, planning a wedding comes with a lot of opinions – some helpful, some... not so much. But here’s the truth: wedding etiquette isn’t about doing things “by the book.” It’s about being thoughtful, clear, and kind.
If you ever feel unsure, ask yourself: Will this make someone feel included, respected, or loved? If yes, you're already on the right path.
And if you’re ever in doubt? You’ve got a wedding planner bestie (hi! 👋) ready to guide you through it all.
If you’re in the thick of wedding planning (or know someone who is) save this post to come back to later or share it to help ease some of the stress! And if you have a question you’re too afraid to ask? Slide into my DMs – I love being your go-to for the sticky stuff.
