Got Wedding Etiquette?

  It seems that when a couple decides to marry it is just one joyous party after another until the final bash, better known as the wedding reception.   Scenes from the Wedding Crashers are now dancing in my head.   Sorry for the detour; moving on... Each party comes with its own set of etiquette rules and traditions.   For example, some pre-wedding parties are typically gift-giving events, such as the wedding shower, while the bachelor, bachelorette, and engagement parties are not.   And what about the wedding reception?   What if the couple decides to marry out of state and most close friends and relatives cannot attend?   Is it proper to host a belated reception?   And, if it is proper, how long after a wedding is it appropriate to host a reception?   So many questions. Perhaps a bit of Q & A can guide us toward being better, more polite, guests and hosts, while answering all those pesky questions.   Do I attend my friend'...

  Dear Polite One, The bride asked a few friends to plan her Vegas bachelorette party, for which we will pay our travel and lodging costs, for the bride’s spa, and all entertainment costs (clubs, drinks, food).  Do we also pay for her travel and lodging costs? Empty wallets Dear Empty Wallets, She shouldn't have requested this.  It's not polite or good manners .  She just doesn’t pay for the night of the party.  So, she can pick up the tab for her travel and lodging expenses.   Sincerely, The Polite One More from The Polite One How to Plan a Perfect Bachelorette and Bachelor Party Excluded from the Engagement Party May we host an engagement party?

Special Note Since planning the bachelorette and bachelor party can be a challenge – the only parties provided by the guests – it is most fair to try to find something that will entertain everyone that doesn't cost much. This could be a girls-night in watching chic flicks, miniature golf, or wine tasting tour for the ladies.  Perhaps high tea!? Gents?  Well, most men I know entertain themselves quite easily with just about anything that includes "male bonding."  Many add beer to that mix.    Just make sure all can afford the activities and you will all talk about that night for years to come.   Please Read These Posts May we combine the bachelorette and bridal shower? Four-Day Vegas Trip How to Plan a Perfect Bachelorette and Bachelor Party

  Dear Polite One: Would it be appropriate for us to host the bridal shower and bachelorette party on the same day?  Should we charge the attendees to ride in the limo? Thank you, MOH Dear MOH, Although not incorrect to host both on the same day, combining them is awkward and not fair for the guests.  The shower is a gift-giving event (if not gift-less), so these guests don't pay for anything besides the gifts.   Alternately, the bachelorette party is not a gift-giving event for which the guests treat the bride.  Thus, guests must know all costs upfront.  When a limo is involved, guests may opt to share the cost, but should not be coerced into paying.  So, as you see, combining these two events would be difficult.  All shower guests would also have to be bachelorette guests. The bride should never be involved in the planning of either party and may not ask for it—it’s not polite .  These are ...