Wedding Terminology from A-Z
Planning a wedding can be an exciting, yet overwhelming experience, especially when you come across unfamiliar terms and jargon. Whether you're a bride-to-be, a wedding enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of weddings, this post aims to define the terms commonly used in the wedding industry. From champagne wall to nuptials and everything in between, we've got you covered from A-Z. Let's dive right in!
Anniversary Dance:
An anniversary dance is a traditional wedding reception activity where married couples are invited to the dance floor to celebrate their own marriages. Typically the DJ or emcee will start by inviting all married couples to join the dance floor. As the song progresses, couples will be asked to leave the dance floor based on the number of years they have been married. The last couple remaining on the dance floor is often the couple who has been married the longest, and they are recognized and celebrated by the guests.
Arbor/Arch:
An arbor or arch is a decorative structure often used in weddings as a focal point or backdrop for ceremonies. It is typically made of wood, metal, or other materials and is designed to create a visually appealing frame for the couple exchanging their vows. The arbor or arch is often adorned with flowers, greenery, fabric, or other decorative elements that complement the wedding theme or color scheme. It serves as a symbol of unity and provides a picturesque setting for the couple and their guests. The arbor or arch can be customized to reflect the couple's personal style and can be placed indoors or outdoors, depending on the wedding venue.
Aisle:
A wedding aisle refers to the designated pathway or walkway leading to the ceremonial area where the wedding ceremony occurs. It is typically a central element of the wedding venue, providing a clear and defined path for the wedding party, including the couple, their attendants, and sometimes the officiant, to walk down. The wedding aisle is often decorated with flower petals, candles, or aisle runners to enhance the ambiance and create a visually appealing atmosphere.
Bridal Party:
The bridal party refers to a group of individuals who play a special role in a wedding ceremony and support and assist the couple in getting married. The bridal party typically consists of the maid/matron of honor, bridesmaids, best man, groomsmen, and sometimes additional roles such as flower girls and ring bearers. The maid/matron of honor is usually the bride's closest friend or family member and acts as her main support throughout the wedding planning process. Bridesmaids are close friends or family members who assist the bride with various tasks and participate in pre-wedding events. The best man is the groom's leading support and often takes on responsibilities such as organizing the bachelor party. Groomsmen are close friends or family members who assist the groom and participate in pre-wedding events. The bridal party is integral to the wedding celebration, providing emotional support, helping with wedding preparations, and standing by the couple's side on their special day!
Bridesmaids:
Bridesmaids are individuals, usually close friends or family members of the bride, who are chosen to support and assist the bride throughout the wedding planning process and on the wedding day itself. They play a significant role in the wedding party and are typically responsible for various tasks, such as helping the bride with dress shopping, attending bridal showers and bachelorette parties, and providing emotional support during the wedding preparations. On the wedding day, bridesmaids often participate in the processional, standing alongside the bride during the ceremony, and may assist with tasks such as arranging the bride's train, holding her bouquet, or giving a toast at the reception. Bridesmaids are chosen by the bride based on their close relationship and their willingness to be actively involved in the wedding festivities.
Batched Bach:
A combined bachelor/bachelorette party that includes the Jacks and the Jills. By celebrating together beforehand, friends and family from both sides build meaningful bonds, setting the stage for a unified wedding.
Bachelor party:
A bachelor party is a celebration typically organized for a groom-to-be before his wedding. It is a social gathering where the groom and his close male friends and family members come together to enjoy a night or weekend of festivities. The purpose of a bachelor party is to commemorate the groom's upcoming marriage and to provide him with a memorable and enjoyable experience before entering married life.
Bachelorette party:
A bachelorette party is a celebration held for a bride-to-be before her wedding day. It is typically organized by the bride's close friends or bridesmaids and is a chance for the bride and her female friends to enjoy a fun and memorable night or weekend together. The bachelorette party often involves various activities and entertainment, such as going out to bars or clubs, having a spa day, playing games, or going on a trip.
Bustle:
A bustle refers to a method of securing and lifting the train of a wedding gown or dress to keep it off the ground during the reception or after the ceremony. A bustle is created by fastening or attaching the train to the back of the dress, typically using buttons, hooks, or ribbons. This allows the train to be lifted and secured, transforming the gown into a more manageable length for ease of movement and dancing.
Best man:
The best man is a key role in a wedding ceremony and is typically chosen by the groom. The best man is considered the groom's closest male friend or family member and holds a position of honor and responsibility. Their primary role is to support the groom throughout the wedding planning process and on the wedding day itself. The best man's duties often include organizing the bachelor party, assisting with wedding preparations, and providing emotional support to the groom. During the wedding ceremony, the best man traditionally stands beside the groom at the altar and may hold the rings until they are exchanged. They may also give a speech or toast during the reception, offering well wishes and anecdotes about the couple.
Budget:
A wedding budget refers to the financial plan or allocation of funds for all the expenses associated with planning and executing a wedding. It is a comprehensive outline that helps couples determine how much they are willing and able to spend on various aspects of their wedding, such as venue, catering, attire, decorations, photography, entertainment, and more. The wedding budget serves as a guideline to ensure that expenses are managed effectively and that the couple stays within their financial means. It involves estimating costs, setting priorities, and making informed decisions about where to allocate funds to create the desired wedding experience.
Bouquet toss:
The bouquet toss is a traditional wedding activity where the bride tosses her bouquet of flowers into a group of unmarried female guests. It is typically done towards the end of the reception, after the formalities and dances have taken place. The belief is that the woman who catches the bouquet will be the next to get married.
Bridal shower:
A bridal shower is a pre-wedding celebration held in honor of the bride-to-be. It is typically organized by the maid of honor, bridesmaids, or close friends and family members. The purpose of a bridal shower is to shower the bride with love, well wishes, and gifts as she prepares for her upcoming wedding. The event often includes games, activities, and socializing, providing an opportunity for the bride's loved ones to come together and celebrate her upcoming marriage.
Brunch Wedding:
A brunch wedding is a wedding ceremony and reception held in the morning or early afternoon, usually between 10 am and 2 pm. It's a unique twist on the traditional evening wedding with several charming characteristics, such as a unique and lighter fare like breakfast casseroles, pastries, quiche, salads, and brunch cocktails. Mimosas and coffee are often offered, and the overall atmosphere is more casual and informal compared to a formal dinner reception.
Booked (vendor):
A "booked vendor" refers to a business or individual you have secured to provide their services for your wedding day. This means you have entered into a contractual agreement with them, outlining the specific services they will provide, the cost, and the terms of engagement.
Bouquet - bridal:
A bridal bouquet is a floral arrangement specifically designed for a bride to carry on her wedding day. The bouquet is often coordinated with the wedding's overall theme and color scheme, as well as the bride's dress. Bridal bouquets come in various styles and shapes, including round, cascade, and hand-tied bouquets. The selection of flowers in the bouquet can hold symbolic significance or personal meaning to the couple.
Bouquet - bridesmaids:
A bridesmaid bouquet is a smaller floral arrangement carried by bridesmaids during a wedding ceremony. Similar to the bridal bouquet, the bridesmaid bouquet is carefully designed to complement the overall theme and color scheme of the wedding. It often consists of a selection of flowers, greenery, and sometimes additional decorative elements.
Boutonniere:
A boutonnière is a small, decorative floral arrangement worn by men, typically attached to the lapel of a suit or tuxedo. Boutonnières are often worn by the groom, groomsmen, fathers of the bride and groom, and other male members of the wedding party.
Buffet vs plated meals:
Buffet: In a buffet-style meal, the food is arranged on tables or stations, and guests can serve themselves. Guests move along the buffet line, selecting the dishes they want. Buffets often offer a variety of options, allowing guests to choose from different dishes and customize their plates.
Plated: In a plated meal, each guest is served an individual pre-portioned meal at their table.The meal is typically composed of courses, such as an appetizer, main course, and dessert, which are brought to each guest in a specific order. Plated meals are generally considered more formal and are associated with sit-down dinners.
Champagne wall:
A champagne wall at a wedding refers to a creative and visually striking display where glasses of champagne are arranged in an artistic manner. This display is typically set up for guests to easily access and serve themselves during the celebration, often as a part of the reception or cocktail hour.
Champagne tower:
A champagne tower is a grand and visually impressive arrangement of stacked champagne glasses, typically arranged in a pyramid shape. Champagne flutes are carefully stacked in a pyramid shape, with each tier having a specific number of glasses. As part of a celebratory moment, champagne is then poured into the top glass, allowing it to overflow and cascade down the tiers, filling the glasses below. Guests are then invited to take a glass from the tower, and a collective toast is made to celebrate the occasion.
Coordinator:
A coordinator is a professional who assists couples in planning and organizing various aspects of their wedding day. The role of a wedding coordinator can vary based on the couple's needs and preferences, but it generally involves providing support and guidance throughout the wedding planning process.
Chargers:
Chargers refer to decorative plates that are placed beneath the dinner plates during the formal meal. Chargers are also known as service plates, underplates, or presentation plates. These plates are not meant to be used for serving food but rather serve as an elegant base for the dinner plates.
Chuppah:
A traditional Jewish wedding canopy or structure that holds significant symbolic and religious meaning. The Chuppah is an integral part of a Jewish wedding ceremony and serves as a sacred space where the couple stands together during their marriage vows and blessings.
Catering:
Wedding catering refers to the provision of food and beverage services for a wedding ceremony and reception. Catering is a crucial aspect of wedding planning, ensuring that the couple and their guests have a delightful dining experience.
Ceremony:
A wedding ceremony is a formal and ritualistic event that marks the union of two individuals in marriage. It is a significant and celebratory occasion where the couple publicly expresses their commitment to each other, often in the presence of family and friends. The wedding ceremony typically includes various traditions, customs, and religious or cultural rituals, depending on the beliefs and preferences of the couple.
Clinking glasses:
Clinking glasses at a wedding is a tradition where guests tap their utensils against their glassware to create a clinking sound. This action is often done to prompt the newlyweds to share a kiss. The clinking of glasses is a light-hearted and festive way for guests to express their joy and excitement for the couple.
Cocktail hour:
A cocktail hour in a wedding is a designated period of time, typically following the wedding ceremony and preceding the main reception, during which guests are invited to enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. It serves as a transitional and socializing time for the wedding party and guests before the more formal aspects of the reception begin.
Centerpiece:
A wedding centerpiece is a decorative arrangement or display positioned at the center of each dining table during a wedding reception. Centerpieces serve as a focal point and contribute to the overall aesthetic and theme of the wedding decor. They come in various styles, shapes, and sizes, and they can be designed to complement the couple's chosen colors, flowers, or theme.
Cake Cutting:
This ceremony typically occurs after the main meal has been served, and it serves as a moment of celebration, joy, and ritual for the newly married couple. The cake cutting usually takes place at a designated spot within the reception venue, often near the dance floor or in a central area where all guests can witness the moment.
DJ:
A wedding DJ, short for disc jockey, is a professional who specializes in providing music and entertainment services for weddings. The role of a wedding DJ goes beyond simply playing music; they are responsible for creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the event.
Destination Wedding:
A destination wedding is a type of wedding in which the couple chooses to get married in a location away from their hometown or usual place of residence. Instead of having the wedding in a familiar local venue, destination weddings take place in a location that is often chosen for its scenic beauty, cultural significance, or sentimental value. The chosen destination may be a different city, country, or even a remote island.
Engagement Party:
An engagement party is a celebratory event held to commemorate and announce a couple's recent engagement. The engagement party serves as a formal or informal announcement of the couple's decision to get married. It is an opportunity for the couple to share their excitement with loved ones.
Escort Cards:
Escort cards are a type of wedding or event stationery that are used to inform guests about their assigned seating arrangements. These cards serve as a guide for guests to locate their assigned tables at the reception venue. Escort cards are typically displayed in a designated area near the entrance to the reception space, and guests pick up their individual cards before finding their assigned table.
Elopement:
An elopement traditionally refers to a secret or spontaneous marriage ceremony that is often done without the knowledge or consent of the couple's families. Couples might plan an intentional, small, and intimate wedding in a destination of their choice, often with a small number of close friends and family or sometimes with just the couple themselves.
First dance:
The first dance at a wedding is a traditional and symbolic moment when the newly married couple takes to the dance floor for their inaugural dance as spouses. This dance typically occurs during the wedding reception. The couple selects a specific song for their first dance. This song is often meaningful to them, representing their relationship or a special moment in their journey together.
Florist:
A florist plays a crucial role in weddings by providing floral arrangements and decorative elements that enhance the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the event. Florists create bridal bouquets, bridesmaid bouquets, and sometimes flower girl bouquets. They also create boutonnieres for the groom, groomsmen, and other male members of the wedding party.
First look:
This is a modern and increasingly popular tradition where the soon-to-be-married couple sees each other in their wedding attire before the actual ceremony. Instead of waiting until the bride walks down the aisle to reveal her dress to the groom, they arrange a private moment to see each other for the first time on their wedding day.
First touch:
A wedding first touch is a special and intimate moment between the bride and groom before the wedding ceremony, where they have physical contact without actually seeing each other. Instead of having a traditional first look where the couple sees each other in their wedding attire, a first touch allows them to share a moment of connection and calm nerves while maintaining the element of surprise for the ceremony.
Favors:
Wedding favors are small gifts or tokens of appreciation given to guests as a gesture of thanks for attending the wedding and celebrating the couple's special day. These favors are typically distributed during the wedding reception and are a way for the couple to express gratitude to their guests for sharing in the joyous occasion.
Guest book:
A wedding guest book is a keepsake book that is set out at a wedding for guests to sign and leave messages, well-wishes, or advice for the newly married couple. It serves as a tangible and lasting record of the guests who attended the wedding and provides a collection of sentiments that the couple can cherish for years to come.
Guest list:
A wedding guest list is a comprehensive list of individuals or groups invited to attend a wedding ceremony and/or reception. Creating a guest list is one of the early and crucial steps in the wedding planning process, as it directly impacts various aspects of the event, including the choice of venue, catering, and overall logistics. The guest list includes the names of all the people the couple wishes to invite to share in their celebration.
Garter toss:
The garter toss is a traditional and playful element of many wedding receptions. It involves the groom removing the garter worn by the bride and tossing it to a group of single male guests. Similar to the bouquet toss, which involves the bride throwing her bouquet to single female guests, the garter toss is believed to bring good luck to the person who catches it.
Head table:
A head table at a wedding is a special table typically reserved for the bride, groom, and members of the bridal party. It is often set up at a prominent location within the reception venue, offering a central and focal point for the wedding party during the celebratory meal. The arrangement may vary, with the couple seated in the center and the bridal party members on either side. The head table is often decorated more elaborately than the other tables in the reception area.
Groomsmen:
Groomsmen are individuals chosen by the groom to be part of the wedding party, typically consisting of close friends, relatives, or important individuals in the groom's life. The role of groomsmen is to support and assist the groom in various wedding-related tasks and to stand by his side during the wedding ceremony.
Handfasting:
Handfasting is a traditional Celtic ritual that involves the tying or binding together of the hands of a couple, symbolizing their commitment to one another. During a handfasting ceremony, the couple's hands are bound or tied together with a cord or ribbon.
Hair/Makeup Artist:
A wedding hair and makeup artist is a professional who specializes in creating the desired hair and makeup looks for brides and members of the bridal party on the wedding day. On the wedding day, the artist is responsible for creating the bride's makeup look. The artist is skilled in creating a variety of hairstyles, whether it's an updo, down hairstyle, braids, or other styles that complement the bride's preferences and dress.
Introductions:
Wedding introductions refer to the formal announcement of the wedding party as they are introduced to the guests during the reception. This typically occurs at the beginning of the reception when everyone is gathered, and it sets the stage for the festivities that will follow. The master of ceremonies or the wedding DJ often takes charge of making these introductions.
Invitations:
Wedding invitations are formal written requests sent to individuals inviting them to attend a wedding ceremony and/or reception. These invitations provide essential details about the wedding, including the date, time, and location of the event, as well as information about the hosts, dress code, and RSVP instructions. Wedding invitations serve as both practical communication tools and important elements of wedding stationery.
Itinerary:
A wedding itinerary is a detailed schedule or plan that outlines the chronological order of events and activities planned for a wedding day. It serves as a guide for the couple, their wedding party, vendors, and guests, ensuring that everyone is aware of the timing and sequence of various elements throughout the day. A well-organized wedding itinerary helps to streamline the day's events and contributes to a smooth and enjoyable celebration.
Junior bridesmaids:
Junior bridesmaids are young members of the bridal party in a wedding who is typically older than a flower girl but not yet a full-fledged bridesmaid. The role is designed for girls who are in the pre-teen or early teenage years. The specific age range for a junior bridesmaid can vary, and the role is adapted to accommodate the individual's age and capabilities. While a junior bridesmaid may not have the same level of responsibilities as adult bridesmaids, she may still be involved in some aspects of the wedding. This can include attending pre-wedding events, participating in the processional, standing with the bridal party during the ceremony, and possibly joining in on some of the post-ceremony activities.
Jumpin’ the broom:
The tradition involves the couple jumping over a broom, often decorated or specially prepared for the occasion, either during the wedding ceremony or immediately afterward. The act of jumping the broom is seen as a representation of sweeping away the old and welcoming the new, as well as a symbol of the couple's commitment to each other.
Linens:
Linens at a wedding typically refer to the fabric items used for table settings and decor during the reception. Tablecloths, napkins, chair covers, table runners, chair sashes or ties, table skirts and overlays are all examples of linens that can be used during a wedding.
Lighting designer:
A lighting designer is a professional who specializes in creating and implementing lighting designs for wedding events. The role of a lighting designer goes beyond basic illumination; it involves using lighting creatively to enhance the overall aesthetic, ambiance, and atmosphere of the wedding venue. Wedding lighting designers work closely with couples, wedding planners, and other vendors to achieve the desired visual impact for the celebration.
Last dance:
The last dance is the final dance that concludes the reception festivities. It typically takes place towards the end of the evening, signaling that the celebration is coming to a close. The last dance is a sentimental and often emotional moment, providing an opportunity for the couple and their guests to share a final dance before the newlyweds make their exit.
Late-night snacks:
Late-night snacks at a wedding are additional food offerings served later in the evening, typically after the main dinner reception and before the end of the celebration. These snacks are a fun and practical way to keep guests energized and satisfied as they continue to enjoy the festivities. Late-night snacks are often designed to be easy to eat while dancing or socializing.
Marriage license:
A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to marry. It is a prerequisite for a legal marriage in many jurisdictions. Obtaining a marriage license is typically one of the initial steps a couple must take before their wedding ceremony. The marriage license serves as proof that the couple meets the legal requirements for marriage in a specific location.
Maid of honor:
The maid of honor is a key member of the bridal party in a wedding. This role is typically assigned to a close female friend or family member chosen by the bride. The maid of honor is often someone the bride trusts and considers to be one of her closest confidantes.
Matron of honor:
A matron of honor is a key member of the bridal party in a wedding, similar to the role of the maid of honor. The primary distinction is that a matron of honor is a married woman, while a maid of honor is typically unmarried. The term "matron" traditionally refers to a married woman, and "maid" refers to an unmarried woman.
Money dance:
The money dance, also known as the dollar dance, is a wedding tradition where guests pin or attach money onto the clothing of the bride and groom as a way to wish them good fortune and help start their new life together. It's a customary dance often performed at wedding receptions in various cultures around the world, though its prevalence can differ depending on regional customs and traditions.
Memory Table:
A memory table at a wedding is a special display that honors and remembers loved ones who are no longer physically present but hold a significant place in the hearts of the couple and their families. The memory table is a thoughtful and sentimental addition to the wedding decor, providing a space to pay tribute to those who have passed away.
Menu:
A wedding menu is a detailed list of food and beverage offerings that will be served to guests during the wedding reception. It provides information about the culinary choices available, helping guests know what to expect and allowing them to make selections based on their preferences. The wedding menu is an essential element of the overall wedding planning process and contributes to the overall dining experience.
Nuptials:
An adjective that relates to marriage or weddings. It is often used to describe things associated with the marriage ceremony or the state of being married. The "nuptial ceremony" refers to the formal and ceremonial aspects of a wedding, including the exchange of vows and rings. The "nuptial blessing is a religious blessing bestowed upon a
married couple, often as part of a wedding ceremony. The "nuptial attire" refers to the clothing and accessories worn by the bride and groom during their wedding ceremony.
Officiant:
An officiant is an individual who is authorized to perform and solemnize a marriage ceremony. The role of the officiant is to lead the wedding ceremony, guide the couple through their vows, and legally pronounce them married. The authority to officiate weddings is typically granted by a recognized legal or religious body.
Processional:
The processional is the part of the wedding ceremony where the bridal party, including the bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and sometimes other significant individuals like parents or grandparents, enters and proceeds down the aisle to take their positions for the ceremony. The order and participants in the processional can vary based on cultural, religious, and personal preferences.
Photographer:
A wedding photographer is a professional photographer who specializes in capturing images and documenting moments during wedding events. The role of a wedding photographer is crucial in preserving the memories of a couple's special day, and their work often involves a combination of artistic, technical, and interpersonal skills.
Portraits:
Wedding portraits refer to the formal and posed photographs taken during a wedding, typically featuring the bride, groom, and other key individuals, such as the bridal party, family members, and close friends. These images are carefully composed and often capture the subjects in a more traditional and posed manner compared to candid or documentary-style shots.
Planner:
A wedding planner is a professional who assists couples in planning and coordinating their wedding. Wedding planners offer a range of services to help couples organize and execute a memorable and smoothly run wedding celebration. The level of involvement of a wedding planner can vary, from providing full-service planning to day-of coordination.
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Place cards:
Place cards are small cards or markers to designate and indicate the assigned seating arrangements for guests. These cards are typically placed at each guest's assigned seat to help guide them to their places at the table.
Programs:
Wedding programs are printed or digital documents that outline the order of events and provide information about the participants in a wedding ceremony. They serve as a guide for guests, offering details about the ceremony and introducing the key individuals involved. Wedding programs are typically distributed to guests as they arrive at the ceremony venue.
Photo backdrop:
A photo backdrop is a specially designed background that's used for photography purposes. It is a decorative element that provides an aesthetically pleasing and often thematic setting for photographs. They create a designated area for capturing memorable and stylish photos.
Parent dance:
A parent dance at a wedding is a special moment during the reception when the newly married couple shares a dance with one or both of their parents. Common parent dances include the father-daugther dance and the mother-son dance.
Registry:
A wedding registry is a curated list of desired gifts created by an engaged couple and made available to their wedding guests. The purpose of a wedding registry is to assist guests in selecting gifts that the couple would appreciate and to help avoid duplicate or unwanted items. Registries are commonly used by couples to communicate their preferences, needs, and tastes to their wedding guests.
Rehearsal dinner:
A rehearsal dinner is a pre-wedding event held the night before the wedding ceremony. It typically involves a dinner or some form of meal and is an opportunity for the key participants in the wedding, such as the couple, their families, the wedding party, and sometimes close friends, to come together in a more relaxed and informal setting.
Reception:
A wedding reception is a celebratory event that takes place after the wedding ceremony. It is a time for the newly married couple to gather with their family and friends to celebrate their union. The reception often includes various elements such as dining, dancing, toasts, and entertainment.
Recessional:
A wedding recessional is a ceremonial and celebratory exit of the newly married couple, along with the wedding party, from the ceremony venue. It typically occurs immediately after the marriage vows have been exchanged and the officiant has pronounced the couple as officially married. The recessional marks the conclusion of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of the post-ceremony festivities.
Save the dates:
Save the dates are notifications sent to prospective wedding guests to inform them of the upcoming wedding date and location. They serve as an advance notice, allowing guests to reserve the date on their calendars well in advance of receiving the formal wedding invitation. Save the dates are particularly useful for guests who may need to make travel arrangements or plan ahead to attend the wedding.
Seating chart:
A seating chart for a wedding is a visual representation of the assigned seating arrangement for guests at the reception venue. It helps guests easily locate their assigned tables, ensuring a smooth and organized seating process. Seating charts are typically displayed at the entrance of the reception area, providing guests with clear guidance on where to find their designated seats.
Speeches:
Verbal expressions given during a wedding ceremony or reception that convey sentiments, well-wishes, and reflections on the occasion. These speeches are typically delivered by key individuals such as the best man, maid/matron of honor, parents, and occasionally other close friends or family members. Wedding speeches add a personal and heartfelt touch to the celebration, allowing speakers to share their thoughts and experiences related to the couple.
Signature cocktail:
A specially crafted drink that is uniquely created or chosen by the couple to be featured at their wedding reception. It is a personalized and often thematic beverage that reflects the couple's tastes, preferences, or the overall theme of the wedding. Signature cocktails add a creative and fun element to the bar menu and can be named after the couple or tied to the wedding's theme or location.
Stationary:
Stationary refers to printed materials and paper goods that are used for various purposes related to the wedding. Common stationary includes save the dates, wedding invitations, RSVP cards, programs, menus, table numbers, escort cards and ceremony and reception decor.
Sweetheart table:
A special seating arrangement at the reception where the newly married couple sits together. Instead of sitting at a traditional head table with the entire bridal party, the sweetheart table is an intimate setting exclusively for the bride and groom. This allows the couple to have a private and romantic space during the reception, providing an opportunity for them to share moments together amidst the celebration.
Signage:
Wedding signage refers to the use of signs or displays at a wedding event to convey information, guide guests, and add decorative elements to the overall ambiance. Wedding signs serve practical purposes, such as directing guests to different areas of the venue, providing information about the ceremony or reception, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the celebration. They can be both functional and decorative, contributing to the overall theme and style of the wedding.
Shoe game:
The wedding shoe game is a fun and entertaining activity often included in wedding receptions. It involves the bride and groom sitting back-to-back, each holding one of the other's shoes and one of their own. The couple is then asked a series of questions, and their responses are indicated by raising the corresponding shoe.
Toasts:
Wedding toasts are speeches given during a wedding celebration to honor and celebrate the newlywed couple. Typically delivered by selected individuals, such as family members, close friends, or members of the wedding party, these toasts are a heartfelt and often lighthearted way to share well-wishes, express love and support, and celebrate the joyous occasion.
Table Numbers:
Wedding table numbers are numerical indicators placed on tables at a wedding reception to help guests easily locate their assigned seating. These numbers are part of the overall table design and decor and serve a practical purpose in organizing the seating arrangement. Table numbers are particularly important for seated dinner receptions where guests have assigned seats.
Tablescape:
A wedding tablescape refers to the artful arrangement and decoration of a dining table during a wedding reception. It involves the thoughtful placement of various elements to create a visually appealing and cohesive design that complements the overall theme and style of the wedding.
Timeline:
A wedding timeline is a detailed schedule or plan that outlines the chronological order of events and activities throughout the entire wedding day. It serves as a guide for the couple, their wedding party, vendors, and other participants to ensure that everything runs smoothly and according to plan. A well-organized wedding timeline helps manage the various aspects of the day, from getting ready in the morning to the end of the reception.
Unity ceremony:
A unity ceremony is a symbolic ritual performed during a wedding ceremony to represent the joining of two individuals and their families into a new, unified entity. It is a meaningful and visual representation of the couple's commitment to each other and the blending of their lives.
There are various types of unity ceremonies, each with its unique symbolism.
Usher:
A wedding usher is an individual who assists with the seating of guests at a wedding ceremony. Ushers play a vital role in creating a welcoming and organized atmosphere for attendees as they arrive at the ceremony venue.
Unplugged wedding:
An unplugged wedding refers to a ceremony or celebration where the couple requests that guests refrain from using electronic devices, such as smartphones, cameras, and tablets, during the event. The purpose of an unplugged wedding is to encourage guests to be fully present and engaged in the moment without the distraction of technology.
Vows:
Wedding vows are promises or commitments made by a couple to each other during the marriage ceremony. These spoken words express the couple's mutual love, dedication, and intentions for their marriage. The exchange of vows is a deeply significant and traditional part of many wedding ceremonies, symbolizing the couple's commitment to each other.
Veil:
A veil is a piece of fabric worn by a bride that covers her face or extends behind her head and shoulders. It is a traditional bridal accessory and holds cultural and symbolic significance in many wedding ceremonies. The veil is often worn during the ceremony and is lifted or removed at specific moments, such as when the couple is pronounced married or during a special ritual.
Venetian hour:
This is a traditional Italian wedding custom that involves serving an elaborate array of sweets, desserts, and coffee. This decadent dessert reception typically takes place late in the evening, following the main dinner and before the end of the wedding celebration.
Wedding party:
The group of individuals chosen by the bride and groom to participate in various roles during the wedding ceremony and celebration.
Wedding fragrance:
A wedding fragrance refers to a special perfume or scent that a bride or groom chooses to wear on their wedding day. The chosen fragrance is intended to evoke memories and emotions associated with the wedding, creating a unique olfactory experience that is linked to the couple's special day.
We know that this comprehensive list of terms and definitions will have you feeling confident as you tackle your wedding planning!
Happy planning!
The Wedding Talk Team
