-
If you receive an invitation to a wedding, respond as soon as possible and make sure only the people to whom the invitation is addressed are attending. Do not ask to invite your children or your partner. Weddings can be very expensive and the bride and groom have created a guest list based on what they can afford. If your kids are invited, but you aren't sure if they'll behave, do not bring them.
Some weddings may have a special table for gifts at the reception, but typically guests should send gifts directly to the bride before the big day. Please respect the hosts; if they ask for no gifts, or for charitable donations in lieu of gifts, do so accordingly. -
In preparation of the wedding, you must choose bridesmaid gowns. Unless you are willing to foot the bill, or your bridesmaids agree to the pricing, do not choose costly dresses out of respect for your friends' finances. If money is tight, they may choose to opt out of the wedding.
If you do not want your guests to bring their children, it is rude to specifically say "no children" on the invitation. Opt for saying that the event is an "adults-only affair."
Many guests will scoff at the idea of a cash bar, and open, full bars come with immense costs. A less expensive choice is to opt for beer and wine only. Guests have gone out of their way to attend the wedding and purchase you a gift; it is impolite to have them pay for anything at the wedding. If you cannot afford alcohol, simply have no bar. Only allow what you can afford. -
Traditionally, the groom's parents should host the rehearsal dinner. But first, the mother of the groom is responsible for contacting the bride's parents. She may phone them for congratulations, invite them for dinner, etc.
The bride's mother is responsible for helping her daughter choose a wedding dress, as well as helping the bride and groom create a budget. She also helps take care of the guest list, but if this is your responsibility, make sure you are not taking over, adding and subtracting guests to your liking.
Remember that this is not your wedding. While your help is greatly appreciated by the bride, allow her to explore her own tastes and style for her big day. - When parents are paying the bill for the wedding, it is difficult to avoid including guests they want invited or ideas they want to see happen. Compromising is key. The bride and groom should understand that the parents are doing them a great thing, but parents should also understand that this day is a very personal event to plan. If it is your wedding, and parents seem to be butting in, you may have to give in to a few of their suggestions to show your appreciation of their financial support.
