Wedding etiquette can be quite tricky to perfect and is catered to each individual wedding. It’s entirely easy to overlook these less than common, but still important guidelines. Don't make these mistakes when planning your wedding.

save the date

Not including the location on save the dates

A couple may not have booked the venue for their wedding yet, but not including the location that is one of the most annoying mistakes for guests. Don’t assume guests will just know the location in which you will marry, even if you think your hometown goes without saying. Some guests may need to travel and book overnight accommodation so at least provide the general location on your save-the-dates, even if the venue is to-be-confirmed.

Picking a difficult date

Ideally, Saturday is the day to wed, as guests can let their hair down and enjoy the festivities without having to worry about work the next day. Hence, Saturdays are far more expensive. Choosing a Thursday or a Sunday for the wedding is far more financially savvy, yet not practical for those who may have to book a day off work, or leave early to rest up for the beginning of their working week. Keep this in mind when inviting guests. You should also bear in mind other difficult days in the year.

Boho flower crown

The false start mistake

Putting an earlier time on the invite than you’re actually planning on walking down the aisle just so people can watch you make your grand entrance is another one of those mistakes you don't think you're making. Some guests are fail-safe early-arrivers to every event and so could potentially be waiting for up to an hour on the day. It’s every bride’s prerogative to arrive a little late but there’s a massive difference between 15 minutes and an hour! This type of tardiness is sure to annoy restless guests and could possible affect the party vibe at the afters.

Skimping on your guests

Guests are sure to have made a big effort and paid quite an expense to be there for your big day and wouldn’t it be nice to provide an open bar for them? Unfortunately, doesn’t tend to be a viable option financially, especially at an Irish wedding. However, not providing a single drop of complimentary alcohol on the day is a wedding etiquette no-no. Make sure when you book your venue that there will be a glass of prosecco upon guests’ arrival. You should also include free wine or similar beverages with dinner, and don’t forget to consider an extra drink to toast with.

drinks

Cutting down on costs

Don’t assume you can cut down on wedding costs by not providing food and refreshments for the band and photographer, who will most certainly be hanging around for a large portion of the day. Some vendors even include this charge in their contract so deciding to ignore this is just rude. Work out a deal with your caterers for a ‘vendor meal,’ which is the same main course that will be served to your wedding party but without the added cost of a starter and dessert.

- Michelle Storey

Image credits: Save the date: Le Hai Linh Photogrpahy | Bride: Stephanie Sunderland Photography | Drinks: KT Merry Photography