Rules of etiquette help you interact in the right way with others. Stated simply, etiquette is the fine art of getting along with people, improving every aspect of your life and the lives of people around you. eniGma’s Ezz Al-Turkey sought the advice of etiquette consultant and founder of Urban Business Institute, Dina El Selmy, for a few etiquette tips for couples planning their wedding.
What is Etiquette?
Etiquette is the guideline that allows us to interact with one another safely and comfortably. In our mixed multi-cultural, multi-generational, global society, we rebound etiquette to be “social synchronicity.” We are naturally attracted to people who come to us and are friendly, kind and confident. We are responsible for the energy that we bring to every setting. Choosing social synchronisation while keeping your principles makes each moment that you have with another person more meaningful and more memorable. Etiquette helps you feel comfortable and confident in any social or business setting. It also helps you understand and execute the correct behavior in different situations, as well as to gain the trust of people in your community & to maintain solid relationships. Simply, etiquette is the fine art of getting along with people and it improves every aspect of your life and the lives of people around you.
Avoid Wedding Dress Stress
Whether it’s simple, sequined or classic, the main thing to consider when picking your wedding dress is what will make you happy on your very special day. But besides making sure that you will feel comfortable in your chosen dress you may also want to imagine yourself in your wedding pictures the day after your wedding, and even 10 years later. The thought of the pictures many years later should give you a heartwarming smile.
Choose Who Gets a +1 Invite
Couples who need to keep their guest list limited should establish general guidelines to follow when deciding which guests should receive +1 invitations to the wedding. According to general rules, anyone engaged or married should be invited as a couple, with both names appearing on the wedding invitation. It’s also courteous to extend a +1 invitation to visitors from other countries.
Should Guests Leave Kids at Home
Children can be adorable and can have a great time dressed up in party dresses and suits at the wedding. But will their parents have as much fun? Most likely not. You should decide whether or not to invite children to your wedding – or just limit children at the wedding to nieces and nephews. If you choose not to invite children, explain to parents that this is because you want to make sure they have a good time. You can say, “While we love your little ones, this is an adult-only wedding and reception.”
Dealing with a Late RSVP
Guests are typically given three to four weeks before the wedding date to RSVP. Once that date has passed, the couple can contact people by phone or text, stating in a friendly manner that you’re just checking in and hoping that they will be able to attend. If you can’t reach them directly, you’ll have to decide how long you’re going to hold the spot for them at some point. Approximately one week before the numbers are due to vendors, make follow-up calls to guests who have yet to reply. Remember that this would be a great time to ask your wedding party or family for some help.
Destination Weddings & Cost Responsibility
The couple is not responsible for the travel expenses of their guests. However, arranging for wedding guests to receive a discounted rate at a hotel or two is a thoughtful gesture. You can work with a travel agent coordinating flights, room reservations, and ground transportation to make travel planning even easier for guests. You can also hire a travel concierge to help plan daily activities, including transportation to and from different locations.