Guide Note
Wedding etiquette is the traditional behavior that gives everyone the appropriate thanks and opportunities during weddings. Wedding attendants have duties to help the bride and groom before and during the wedding. WeddingChannel.com suggests that the bride or groom be sensitive to each attendant's specific situation.1
Fast Facts
- Traditionally, thank you notes are written within two months from the honeymoon2
- Usually there are between four and six bridesmaids3
- In some cultures money is given instead of gifts
Choosing Bride's Maids
Bridesmaids were once chosen for protection from thieves or to confuse evil spirits. These days, bridesmaids are a source of moral support and to help organize the wedding party. Traditionally the closest sister is chosen as the maid of honor. Usually bride's maids are chosen based on their close relationship with the bride. It is traditional to have the number of bride's maids match the number of grooms attendants.3
The Receiving Line
A receiving line is an organized greeting ritual in which all the guest line up to greet and congratulate the new couple. This ritual is usually held at the end of the ceremony or at the beginning of the reception. It helps give everyone a chance to talk with the new couple and frees up the evening from greeting-related interruptions.4
