Wedding planning 101

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Advice to make your wedding day go smoothly from start to finish. From ceremony timelines to wedding favor ideas to writing your vows, our experts help you plan the perfect wedding day.

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Arizona Wedding Planning Tips
Wedding planning 101

Arizona Wedding Planning Tips

Zola’s Arizona wedding planning tips and tricks will ensure a fabulous affair. Read on to learn more!

Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest
Wedding planning 101

Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest?

How to determine whether you need to give wedding favors to every guest at your wedding.

Should You Buy Extra Wedding Favors
Wedding planning 101

Should You Buy Extra Wedding Favors?

How to determine whether you need to invest in extra wedding favors for your big day.

A wedding photographer crouches in a field to capture a shot of a husband and wife, potentially guiding them toward how to pose for wedding photos.
Wedding planning 101

How to Pose for Wedding Photos + 30 Wedding Picture Poses to Try

Many couples worry about whether or not their wedding portraits will look natural. Our guide on how to pose for wedding photos will help boost your confidence.

stepparents at wedding
Wedding planning 101

Navigating How to Include Stepparents in Your Wedding

Whether you're close or not, your stepparents are part of your family. Find out how to navigate difficult conversations, if necessary, and include your stepparents in your wedding.

When Does the Bouquet Toss Happen
Wedding planning 101

When Does the Bouquet Toss Happen?

Plan the bouquet toss to happen at the right time during your wedding.

happy Groom At Reception
Wedding planning 101

Top 10 Wedding Reception Ideas to Surprise Your Groom

Surprise your groom with thoughtful inclusions at the reception. To get you inspired, we’ve got 10 groom-approved wedding reception ideas that will knock the fancy socks off of your partner and make your wedding day even more memorable.

father gives wedding speech
Wedding planning 101

How to Stop a Rambling Wedding Speech

Wedding speeches have a tendency to go off the rails. Get your reception back on track with our advice on how to stop a wedding speech that's gone on inappropriate, on a tangent, or worse.

Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas
Wedding planning 101

Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas

A rehearsal dinner should be about excitement and anticipation—not the costs. Here are cheap rehearsal dinner ideas from Zola.

Integrating Culture into Their Weddings in 2022
Wedding planning 101

42 Unique Wedding Traditions Around the World

More and more, couples are opting to include specific cultural traditions on their wedding day. Here’s a look at some wedding customs couples are incorporating into their bid day.

Garter Toss Alternatives
Wedding planning 101

Garter Toss Alternatives

Here are some ideas to consider for alternatives to the garter toss.

How to Package Wedding Favors
Wedding planning 101

How to Package Wedding Favors: A Complete Guide

Once you’ve decided on what wedding favors you want to give guests, you need to figure out the best way to package them. Here’s a complete guide on how to package wedding favors.

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\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n ","subtopicPage":{"articles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"arizona-wedding-planning-tips","title":"Arizona Wedding Planning Tips","excerpt":"Zola’s Arizona wedding planning tips and tricks will ensure a fabulous affair. Read on to learn more!","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-11-28T01:26:15.437Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7KOgY7yxXqIzF9CyRrp3rD/fae54e120223f10a62eb242d2b5c185a/Hero_VibrantRockandRollWeddinginSedona_LoveMyLifePhotography.jpg","altText":"Arizona Wedding Planning Tips"},"heroCredit":"Love My Life Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Arizona offers wedding locales from urban hotspots to gorgeous desert scenery. From ranches to Japanese gardens, you may be surprised at how many options you have in the Grand Canyon State.\n- Consider extreme temperatures in your destination wedding planning. Keep guests hydrated with a large water supply.\n- Heat-resistant flowers are a must when putting together bouquets for an Arizona wedding. \n- For some local flair, cater your big day with traditional Arizona eats such as Navajo tacos, Piki bread, red chile stew, and Sonoran hot dogs.\n- Make sure to consider the legal details of your union. Arizona marriage licenses will cost $74, require two witnesses, and must be turned in within 30 days of the ceremony.","body":"From the unique Southwestern architecture to the year-round sunshine, Arizona is an exceptional place to hold a wedding. With unique themes, interesting venues, and gorgeous scenery, you won’t have much trouble planning your perfect wedding or elopement in this state.\n\nWhile the Grand Canyon State has plenty of charm, it never hurts to have a wedding planner or expert by your side to help you make the most of your time and budget. Fortunately, Zola is here to help you put together the best Arizona wedding possible. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Arizona [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning).\n\n## Benefits and Challenges of Planning an Arizona Wedding \nFrom transportation to weather, every location has its advantages—along with a few quirks you’ll need to fully understand so that you can plan accordingly.\n\nArizona is a wonderful place to celebrate your love, but it pays to know its particulars before you start booking vendors. To that end, we’ll cover the pros and cons of Arizona weddings.\n\n### Benefits of Arizona Weddings\nWith year-round sun and plenty of scenic vistas, Arizona has plenty to offer.\n\nThe benefits of planning an Arizona wedding include:\n\n- __A diverse assortment of cities –__ Arizona is a large state with many different cities to choose from. This gives the couple plenty of options when deciding on the best location and venues for their special day. If you’re planning a city wedding, with urban convenience and an upscale venue, Arizona has a number of large cities to choose from, including:\n\n - Tucson\n - Phoenix\n - Scottsdale\n - Sedona\n - Flagstaff\n - Tempe\n - Mesa\n\n- __Beautiful desert scenery –__ Despite its many cities, Arizona also offers 120,000 square miles of beautiful desert landscape. That means that couples who want to opt for a rural, desert ceremony will have a near-endless array of options. The scenery in Arizona also makes for a great backdrop when taking wedding and engagement photos. Some options for natural landmarks in Arizona include:\n\n - The Grand Canyon\n - Saguaro National Park\n - Monument Valley\n - Havasu Falls\n - Petrified Forest National Park\n - Horseshoe Bend\n - Hoover Dam\n - Organ Pipe Cactus National Park\n - Oak Creek Canyon\n - Slide Rock State Park\n - Meteor Crater\n\n- __Affordability –__ While Arizona isn’t the cheapest place in the US, it certainly offers a much lower cost of living than many other major wedding hotspots such as New York, California, or Hawaii. With this lower cost of living comes a wide array of affordable wedding venues and vendors. \n\n### Challenges of Arizona Weddings \nOn the other hand, you’ll need to consider the potential challenges of your Arizona nuptials:\n\n- __The heat –__ When you’re all dolled up and rocking formal attire, the Arizona heat can quickly become overbearing. That’s why it’s crucial to keep the weather in mind when planning your Arizona wedding. Cool clothing, shaded areas, and water are going to be your best friends, especially if you’re planning a wedding during the summer months. \n\n- __The cold –__ Once the sun goes down, the famous Arizona heat quickly drops to below-freezing temperatures. These weather extremes can make dressing for the occasion a little trickier (but don’t worry, we’ll provide you with a few tips and tricks for this later on).\n\n- __Transportation –__ If you’re getting hitched in Arizona, somebody needs to drive. Even in the state’s larger cities, public transportation is less than reliable. Couples will need to either drive or find accommodations to transport themselves and their guests from place to place. This will be particularly important if visitors are staying in a hotel or if your ceremony and reception take place at two different venues. Fortunately, [Zola’s hotel planner](https://zola.hotelplanner.com/Group-Rate/?kw=guestnav) makes it easy to find nearby accommodations for your out-of-town guests.\n\n## Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Arizona Wedding\nAfter spending months planning your special day, it makes sense that you’ll want everything to go according to said plan. In Arizona, that means keeping a few unique considerations in mind in order to keep everything running smoothly. \n\nDespite the challenges you may face with an Arizona wedding, if you follow these Arizona wedding tips, you should get by with flying colors and have a wonderful experience.\n\n- __Hydration is key –__ Look, it’s no secret that Arizona weather can be hot. Combine this extreme heat with standing, dancing, and moving around all day, and you may be in for a dire hydration situation. This is why it’s crucial to keep ample amounts of fluids on deck for you, your wedding party, and your guests.\n\nSet up a hydration station with large containers of water, both at the ceremony and the reception venue. Of course, just because you’re staying hydrated doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style. You can make this element of your setup a bit more decorative with elegant glass pitchers, rustic water jugs, or glass water dispensers. Bonus points if you add flavors such as lemon or cucumber. If you want to branch out past water, opt for a snow cone station to keep people extra cool (plus, who doesn’t love a good snow cone on a hot day?).\n\n- __Timing –__ If you’re looking to cash in on those stunning desert views, it’s important to account for the timing of your ceremony and reception. For the perfect ceremony shot, you’ll want to plan this portion of the day about an hour before sunset. This is when you’ll get that golden, pink hue in the sky that makes the perfect backdrop to say “I do.” Furthermore, planning your ceremony and reception later in the day will help you beat the heat from the Arizona sun. \n\n- __Shade –__ Speaking of the Arizona sun, outdoor weddings are going to be a little tricky. If your reception takes place at an outdoor location, provide some relief from the sun so your guests can remain comfortable. Opt for venues with shaded areas, or even search for a hybrid indoor-outdoor location with [Zola’s list of pre-screened venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors). \n\n- __Makeup and hair –__ Keeping your hair and makeup in flawless condition can be a little tricky if you’re planning a hot desert wedding. Airbrush makeup, setting powder, and hair spray are VIPs (in this case, very important products) that can keep you looking your best in the heat. It also may be helpful to keep some dry shampoo or baby powder on hand in order to soak up any sweat in your hair.\n\n- __Heat-resistant flowers –__ Every climate calls for different kinds of flowers, and Arizona is no different. During the planning process, talk to your florist about which blossoms work best in the dry desert heat. Examples of flowers that can withstand the Arizona climate include:\n\n - Zinnias \n - Purple coneflower\n - Madagascar periwinkle\n - Roses\n\nIf you’re already in love with succulents, opt for a botanical cactus vibe to match your surroundings. They also make great wedding favors!\n\n- __Prepare for the cold –__ Deserts are actually known for getting particularly chilly when the sun goes down. Plan accordingly for these extreme temperature changes. Advise guests to bring layers, and maybe even consider a wardrobe change for the evening portion of the wedding. \n\n- __Time of year –__ While peak wedding season typically lasts from June to September, the summer months may be too hot for a comfortable Arizona wedding. We recommend opting for a date during the spring or fall, or even shaking things up with a winter wedding to keep guests cool. (Here’s a little insider secret: wedding venues and vendors are often a lot cheaper in the winter months).\n\n## How to Get a Marriage License in Arizona \nIf you’re looking to make things official in the state of Arizona, it’s important to understand the marriage laws that are unique to this state.\n\nFortunately, obtaining your Arizona marriage license won’t be too complicated if you follow these steps:\n\n- __Apply for your license –__ First, submit an application for an Arizona marriage license. This can be done at your local courthouse during regular business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both parties must be physically present while submitting the application, and minors aged 16 and 17 will need parental consent to obtain a marriage license. \n\n- __Bring the necessary identification –__ Both parties must bring a valid form of government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. \n\n- __Pay the fee –__ An Arizona marriage license costs $76, which can be paid in cash or with a credit card at the time of the application. Certified copies of your marriage license will cost $34 each, but these can be obtained later on. \n\n- __No blood test required –__ While some states require a blood test or physical examination in order to obtain a marriage license, Arizona won’t intrude on your health or privacy before giving you the green light to wed.\n\n- __No waiting period –__ There is also no waiting period for an Arizona marriage license. Couples can obtain their license and get married on the same day (although this is usually not recommended as delays or errors could occur during the process).\n\n- __Get witnesses and sign your license –__ You’ll need to bring at least two witnesses to your ceremony in order to properly sign the marriage license. You and your spouse can sign the marriage license either during or shortly after the wedding ceremony. \n\n- __File your license with the court –__ Within 30 days of the ceremony, you’ll need to file your signed marriage license with an Arizona courthouse. It’s important to note that your marriage license will expire after a year if no ceremony is performed. \n\n## Unique Arizona Wedding Venues\nIf you’re planning to make things official in The Grand Canyon State, you’ll want to find a venue that perfectly fits your personal style. Fortunately, Arizona is full of unique and beautiful wedding venues to complete your special day. \n\nDepending on your location, here are some of the best wedding venues that Arizona has to offer, city-by-city.\n\n### Phoenix\nFirst up, we have the capital of Arizona and the state’s largest city: Phoenix. This bustling metropolitan hotspot is the perfect place for a chic, urban wedding—but don’t let the bright lights of Phoenix fool you. This city still provides all the desert charm you’re looking for in wedding venues like the following:\n\n- __[Japanese Friendship Garden –](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/japanese-friendship-garden--2?from=srp)__ Filled with lush greenery, authentic Japanese decor, and an overall sense of serenity, the Japanese Friendship Garden is the perfect place for a calm, cultured, and captivating wedding ceremony. This tranquil venue can host small weddings of up to 50 seated guests. Stunning water features and gentle string lights adorn this quaint garden and add to its overall charm. If you’re looking to transport yourself from Phoenix to Kyoto, this is the venue for you. \n\n- [__The Croft Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-croft-downtown)__ – This unique venue perfectly embodies the urban appeal of a Phoenix wedding. With industrial architecture, crystal chandeliers, and a spacious dancefloor, the Croft is perfect for a trendy, downtown affair. This massive venue can accommodate up to 350 seated guests.\n\n### Mesa\nEast of Phoenix is the artsy city of Mesa. Home to gorgeous natural landmarks and a unique Southwestern history, Mesa certainly does not disappoint when it comes to interesting wedding venues:\n\n- __[The Views at Superstition](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-views-at-superstition) –__ Just east of Mesa, this venue is nestled in the heart of Gold Canyon, AZ. The keyword in this venue is views—once you’ve visited, its name will make perfect sense. This gorgeous venue uses the picturesque Superstition mountains to create a stunning backdrop. You and your [wedding photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-photographers) won’t have to venture off to get the perfect wedding photos, because the mountains will sit directly behind you as you recite your vows. \n\n- __[Antique Wedding House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/antique-wedding-house) –__ If you’re looking for an intimate ceremony with an old-school glamour vibe, The Antique Wedding House in Mesa AZ is a perfect choice. This stunning venue can seat 160 guests in its romantic pavilion or 30 seated guests in the cozy retreat chapel. Its glass chandeliers and soft mood lighting will give you the fairytale wedding you’ve always dreamed of.\n\n### Sedona\nSouth of Flagstaff, Sedona is a stunning desert city that’s surrounded by red buttes. If you’re looking to have the ultimate Arizona experience, check out these unique Sedona wedding venues:\n\n- __[Red Agave Resort](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/red-agave-resort?from=srp) –__ Red Agave Resorts certainly isn’t lying with its name. This stunning outdoor venue is surrounded by the rich, red hues found in the nearby buttes. The courtyard offers stunning views of the Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, as well as the spacious Arizona sky—making it perfect for a sunset ceremony. The venue also allows couples to fully customize their decor, table settings, and musical setup. The space can accommodate up to 100 seated guests and 110 standing guests. \n\n- __[Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/tlaquepaque-arts-crafts-village) –__ Looking to capture that old-world charm with your Arizona wedding venue? Then the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is the place to be. Surrounded by gorgeous stucco walls and arched entryways, this spacious plaza will feel like your own little city of love. This venue is perfect for small weddings of 45 seated guests. \n\n### Tucson\nLocated on the south side of Arizona, Tucson is the state’s second-largest city. This sprawling metropolitan area offers a number of unique wedding venues, including:\n\n- __[Oasis at Wild Horse Ranch](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/oasis-at-wild-horse-ranch?from=srp) –__ If you’re looking for a venue with a balance of desert views, Southwestern architecture, and a lively dance floor, look no further than Oasis at Wild Horse Ranch. Built in the 1890s, this venue has withstood the test of time. While the historical buildings retain their classic charm, the interior is decked out with neon lights and modern table settings. The venue offers two main rooms: Oasis and Sunset. While the Oasis can accommodate up to 400 seated guests, the sprawling Sunset is even larger with 11,000 square feet of space, making this the ideal venue for a long guest list.\n\n- __[Kingan Gardens](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/kingan-gardens?from=srp) –__ This historic location is one of the oldest and most interesting venues in Tucson. From the 19th-century carriage house to the romantic garden, each area of Kingan Gardens is rich with Southwestern history and vintage beauty. While the Garden can accommodate up to 200 seated guests (and 350 standing), the Kingan house is the perfect place to get ready for special events. \n\n## Arizona Wedding Themes \n \nOnce you’ve found the right venue for your style and budget, the next step is decking it out in custom decor.\n\nIf you’re in need of a little wedding planning inspiration, try pulling from the state of Arizona itself! Here are some fun ideas to add that Southwestern flair to your special day:\n\n- __Arizona state flower –__ Add a floral element to your theme or wedding design by incorporating the Arizona state flower into the decor. The saguaro is actually a tree-like cactus that can grow up to 40 feet tall. However, this doesn’t mean that you’ll need to fit the entire plant into your bouquets. The saguaro blossom is a delicate white flower with a baby-yellow center, making it the perfect choice for a gentle wedding color palette. \n\n- __Signature Arizona foods –__ What better way to incorporate Arizona into your wedding day than with some delicious foods? Cater the cocktail hour or dinner portion of your evening with Arizona staples, such as:\n\n - Chimichangas\n - Navajo tacos\n - Piki bread (a traditional corn-based Hopi bread)\n - Red chile stew\n - Sonoran hotdogs (a chile-flavored, bacon-wrapped hotdog)\n\nBotanical-themed invitations – [Zola’s stylish botanical invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop/greenery?offset=0) will make a great addition to your desert-themed wedding. Add warm, vibrant shades such as rust or amber to the background to further tie in your Arizona theme.\n\n## Plan Your Dream Arizona Wedding at Zola\nIn 2021, wedding planning has never been easier thanks to Zola. Whether you’re putting together a downtown reception in Phoenix or a rural ceremony in the Sonoran Desert, Zola is here to help you every step of the way. \n\nOur list of [pre-screened vendors and venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) can help you find local wedding resources that fit your style and budget. In addition to vendors, our [stylish invitation and save-the-date designs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper) are the perfect way to inform your guests about what’s to come. Once you’ve figured out your guest list, Zola makes the planning process even easier with a [digital seating chart](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) and [gift registry services](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry). \n\nStop stressing and jump straight to the celebration. Plan your wedding the modern way with the experts at Zola by your side.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Plan your ideal honeymoon with our curated destinations list. From breathtaking beaches to charming cities, discover the perfect romantic escape.","title":"34 Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024","slug":"best-honeymoon-destinations","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/xMfB590ouqVlhSF5M5gmO/3e7b6ada89c87837e1c9eca1c7e686c4/best-honeymoon-destinations-hero.jpeg","altText":"Couple holding hands walking on a beach"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’re gathering all the details you need to pull off your August wedding.","title":"August Wedding? Here's Everything You Need to Know","slug":"august-wedding-heres-everything-you-need-to-know","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7r4Hujbz7veh1By0dKBnEC/2dacf4c82d4fa9bdcab79a46d704ec4b/Hero_CoastalSummerElopementatSmathersBeach_LivingWaterImages.jpg","altText":"August Wedding? Here's Everything You Need to Know"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Headed to the altar in AZ? Zola has your guide to Arizona marriage laws and how to get your Arizona marriage license.","title":"Arizona Marriage Laws","slug":"arizona-marriage-laws","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2BUuY6abX3ZzM536V7s0hS/5414300e91206c81bf3350dd314176e6/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Arizona Marriage Laws"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Plan your ideal honeymoon with our curated destinations list. From breathtaking beaches to charming cities, discover the perfect romantic escape.","title":"34 Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024","slug":"best-honeymoon-destinations","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/xMfB590ouqVlhSF5M5gmO/3e7b6ada89c87837e1c9eca1c7e686c4/best-honeymoon-destinations-hero.jpeg","altText":"Couple holding hands walking on a beach"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Check out our list of some of the best fall honeymoon destinations, and find the perfect spot for your getaway.","title":"Fall Honeymoon Destinations ","slug":"fall-honeymoon-destinations","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6ZbWN1YeWuSoiFeL4fFCTd/7c5d99f3041af20431ad84eea5c3a398/hero_stocksy2.jpg","altText":"Couple taking selfie"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Getting married in a special place guarantees spectacular memories. See the best destination wedding locations around the globe to find your special place.","title":"Best Wedding Destinations in the U.S. and Abroad","slug":"what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3JyyfK4TYb7znx1R7IPm5k/404773d01587da2b2225d4293f7a1b69/Hero_Zola__17_.jpg","altText":"Graphic image of a passport cover with passport pages sticking out"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"A road trip honeymoon can be romantic and memorable. Our complete guide to planning a memorable RV honeymoon will help you plan. ","title":"How to Plan a Memorable RV Honeymoon","slug":"how-to-plan-a-memorable-rv-honeymoon","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1grPl5D3dvu4W8CG2vxNnB/cd30ce316f1b31e4627bb92e1e45d024/Hero_Unsplash_DinoReichmuth.jpg","altText":"RV Honeymoon"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for the perfect atmosphere for your wedding? Take your special day to another level with our guide to planning a hot air balloon wedding ceremony.","title":"Hot Air Balloon Weddings: A Guide","slug":"hot-air-balloon-weddings-a-guide","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/gXtRoOfYFJ65TNIAq3izu/d5fbdee1da2b39d1ed14c1f882e8fcff/Hero_Zola__6_.jpg","altText":"Hot Air Balloon Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:52.393Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"do-you-give-wedding-favors-to-each-guest","title":"Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest?","excerpt":"How to determine whether you need to give wedding favors to every guest at your wedding.","author":"Deanna deBara","publishedAt":"2021-02-16T16:15:15.737Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1Ku5W4ofaXyHnGAp3DcXP7/ef3ae745d5de3fc2957cdb38b1292552/Hero_NaturalOutdoorWeddingatMerryHill_AandAWeddings.jpg","altText":"Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest"},"heroCredit":"A and A Weddings","body":"There are a lot of [details involved in the wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)—including making plans for your [wedding guests](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/dos-and-donts-for-wedding-guests). You need to [create your seating chart](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-create-a-wedding-seating-chart) to figure out where your guests are going to sit during the wedding reception, figure out what kind of [signature cocktails](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail) you’re going to serve your guests during [cocktail hour](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-tips-for-successful-cocktail-hour), and figure out what wedding favors you’re going to send your guests home with at the end of your big day.\n\nBut choosing your wedding favors is only the first part of the equation; once you’ve settled on your personalized wedding favors, you also need to figure out how many of those favors you need to purchase for the special day.\n\nSo, the question is—do you need to buy a wedding favor for every guest at your wedding? Or can you save some of your [wedding budgets](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) and give out favors more sparingly—for example, one wedding favor per household?\n\nHere are a few things to consider when determining if you need to give wedding favors to each guest at your wedding:\n\n## How Many Guests You’re Having at Your Wedding\n\n![ Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest? ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h5l7tBxhpwbUI1LGzcgB/37def19fe0541ac0bd190010b70c29a6/inline_Annemolnarphotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Annemolnar Photography\n\nWhen deciding whether to buy a wedding favor for every guest at your wedding, the first thing to consider is how many guests are going to be in attendance.\n\nIf you’re hosting a small, intimate wedding—for example, 15 to 20 people—that’s not a huge number of wedding favors to have to purchase. So, if you have the budget for it, buying a wedding favor for each guest would be a nice gesture—and a great way to say “thanks” to your close-knit group of guests.\n\nOn the other hand, if your guest list is currently at 200 people (and growing every day!), that’s a lot of wedding favors—and buying a party favor for each of your 200+ guests can easily eat up a good chunk of your budget.\n\nCan you buy a wedding favor for each guest if you’re having a big wedding? Of course. But just make sure to keep an eye on your budget—and make sure that you’re not spending a disproportionate amount on [[custom wedding favors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-favor-ideas)] (especially if that budget could be more effectively spent elsewhere, such as investing in an amazing [wedding photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer) to capture all the love in the air or [booking the wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue) of your dreams).\n\n## What Kind of Wedding Favors You’re Giving Your Guests...\n\nAnother factor to consider when figuring out how many wedding favors to buy—and whether you need to buy one for each guest—is the kind of favors that you’re planning on gifting on your wedding day.\n\nFor example, if you’re giving your guests a household item as a wedding favor—such as a personalized drink coaster, wine glass, or candle holder—you probably don’t need to give out those favors in a one-favor-per-guest ratio; one per household is probably fine.\n\nOn the flip side, if you’re giving out more[ affordable wedding favors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-favor-ideas) that you expect your guests to enjoy while at your wedding—such as bubble wands for your [big send-off](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-send-off-ideas), fans to keep cool during the ceremony, or candy boxes to fill at your dessert candy bar—then one wedding favor per guest is probably appropriate.\n\n## ...And the Cost Per Wedding Favor\n\nThe biggest thing you’ll want to keep in mind when deciding whether to give a wedding favor to every guest at your wedding is how much those wedding favors are going to cost. Depending on your wedding size, the price can vary. Keeping that in mind, [how much should you spend on wedding favors, realistically](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-to-spend-on-a-wedding-gift)?\n\nIf you’re buying more expensive wedding favors, the cost per favor is going to be high—and buying one wedding favor per guest can drain a significant amount of your budget. If you’re going with a less expensive wedding favor (or taking the DIY route), then gifting every guest at your wedding with a unique party favor is going to be more affordable—and, depending on your budget, could be do-able.\n\n![ Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest? ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5CuBwvAAV7H1iyEX5ZKzvX/6cb50527522a10ec1a3fe4449a693633/inline_RobertNormanPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Robert Norman Photography\n\nUnless you’re working with an unlimited budget, you need to factor in how much each wedding favor is going to cost—and, from there, figure out if you have enough budget to give every wedding guest a wedding favor.\n\nUltimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question “do you give wedding favors to each guest?” For some weddings, gifting every guest in attendance with a wedding favor makes total sense, while for other weddings, the cost of giving every guest a wedding favor can push things over budget. Just remember, whether you give every guest a wedding favor, gift one favor per household, or skip wedding favors altogether, it’s totally fine! Your guests will be happy to be there celebrating your big day, regardless of the wedding favor situation.","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:51.599Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"should-you-buy-extra-wedding-favors","title":"Should You Buy Extra Wedding Favors?","excerpt":"How to determine whether you need to invest in extra wedding favors for your big day.\n","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-02-19T15:55:55.329Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1WcWUQrOoZ0pvmDM5MZfUz/de5ffe94266dacd8a94c9d2190e18c4d/Hero_Zola__57_.jpg","altText":"Should You Buy Extra Wedding Favors"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- First, determine how many wedding favors you need for your wedding day—whether that’s one per person, one per couple, or one per household. \n- Once you know who gets wedding favors and how many you need, you can move on to whether you need extra.\n- If your wedding favors are pricey, you may not want to spend on extras—but, if your favors are on the affordable side, it may be worth it.","body":"When you’re [planning a wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding), your [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) will play a big role in the details of the big day, from your [venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue) to your [dress](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what's-your-wedding-dress-style) to your [cake](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs).\n\nAnd, another thing that your budget will dictate is what kind of wedding favors you get for your [wedding guests](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/dos-and-donts-for-wedding-guests).\n\nChoosing what type of wedding party favor to buy is the first part of the equation. But, from there, you have to determine how many of those favors to buy. Do you buy one per person, one per couple, or one per family? And, once you know how many to buy, should you grab some extra wedding favors—just in case a few get lost, damaged, or broken before your guests have a chance to bring them home?\n\n![Extra Wedding Favors](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1lrNygONTY7AvLk1w8amEn/fdee95457685a437ff730bd76f2b0dd5/inline_ashleymintzphotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Ashley Mintz Photography\n\n## Determining How Many Wedding Favors to Buy \n\nFirst things first, before you can determine whether you should buy extra wedding favors, you need to figure out how many wedding favors you’re going to initially need based on your guest list.\n\nThere are a few different options when it comes to buying wedding favors. You could buy one wedding favor for every wedding guest who RSVPs “Yes” to your wedding, which means that every guest will take home a favor to remember your big day.\n\nBut, depending on your budget (and the cost per party favor) that can get expensive quickly. So, some couples opt to buy one wedding favor per “unit,” whether that’s a couple or a family—so, even though each guest won’t walk away with a wedding favor, each household will have a keepsake to take home after celebrating your special day.\n\nAs a general rule of thumb, if you’re going with wedding favors that fall on the more affordable end of the spectrum (such as a personalized matchbook, bubble wand, or sweet treat), you may want to consider buying one for each wedding guest. The same rule applies to any DIY favors; if you’re making the personalized wedding favors yourself, it’s probably worth it to invest the extra time and budget into crafting wedding favors for all of your wedding guests.\n\nOn the other hand, if you’re investing in a more expensive wedding party favor (such as a picture frame or personalized wedding coaster), it’s appropriate to stick to one wedding favor per household.\n\n## To Buy Extra or Not to Buy Extra—That Is the Question \n\nOnce you’ve settled on the perfect wedding favor strategy—one wedding favor per person or one wedding favor per unit/household—and your RSVPs roll in, you’ll have a good idea of how many wedding favors you’ll need to cover your bases.\n\nBut, the question is, should you order extra?\n\nThere’s an argument to be made for ordering extra wedding favors. Having extra wedding favors can come in handy if some of the favors are damaged, broken, or get lost during the shipping process. This is especially applicable for destination weddings where you may not have enough time to get a new shipment before the big day. Having extra wedding favors is also clutch if you have any last-minute additions to your guest list.\n\nBut, unless you are buying [bulk wedding favors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/where-to-buy-bulk-wedding-favors), purchasing a bunch of extra individual wedding favors can get expensive—especially if the price tag for your favors is on the higher side.\n\nUltimately, you have to decide whether the convenience of having extra wedding favors on hand “just in case” outweighs the additional cost. Here are a few points that you may want to keep in mind when making that decision:\n\n- __Price per wedding favor.__ If you’re investing in pricey [custom wedding favors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-favor-ideas), you may not want to spend the extra budget only to have extras on hand. On the flip side, if your wedding favors are $1 apiece, having an extra 10 on hand isn’t much of additional investment—and it may be worth it for the peace of mind.\n- __The likelihood of needing extra favors.__ If you’re ordering something fragile that’s likely to break—or you have a sneaking suspicion that some of those “No” RSVPs are going to change to “Yes” the day before your wedding—it may be worthwhile to have extras on hand.\n- __Your comfort level with not having enough wedding favors on your special day.__ If you don’t buy extra wedding favors, there is a chance that a few of your guests might not go home with a favor. If you’re ok with that (chances are, they won’t even notice!), you’re good to go—but if that thought gives you major anxiety, do yourself a favor and keep some extras on hand.\n\n## Buy the Amount That Is Comfortable for You and Your Budget \n\n![Extra Wedding Favors](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/17C9O4KnulRWhJx7t8H7Dx/7e721761117124b6a7add14aebb872be/inline_blueweddingphotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Blue Wedding Photography\n\nUltimately, you should keep the number of wedding favors on hand that you—and your budget—are comfortable with. Now that you know the tips to keep in mind as you’re deciding how many wedding favors to buy—and whether to invest in extra—you have everything you need to make the right decision for you, your wedding, and your budget.\n","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Our guide to funny wedding favors that will have your guests giggling in no time. ","title":"Funny Wedding Favors Guaranteed to Make Your Guests Chuckle","slug":"funny-wedding-favors-guaranteed-to-make-your-guests-chuckle","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/mVGLuqtgmsNgp0VJ4aPya/5308d5a18f3d2d03a76a4ffc76f1c207/Hero_Zola__54_.jpg","altText":"Funny Wedding Favor"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover the best trends in wedding favors for 2024. Explore unique, thoughtful and personalizable gifts to say thank you to your guests.\n","title":"57 Best Wedding Favor Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"wedding-favor-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4htHvgMQ2kudreHw1fqB8n/d78a19bfafdcf0518d029991930d3aa8/close-up-of-wedding-party-favors.jpg","altText":"Wedding favor gift boxes laid out on a white table."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Once you’ve decided on what wedding favors you want to give guests, you need to figure out the best way to package them. Here’s a complete guide on how to package wedding favors. ","title":"How to Package Wedding Favors: A Complete Guide","slug":"how-to-package-wedding-favors-a-complete-guide","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2DrspxRRsim3B98Zey57dy/62493798ce8418f86e11e1e9350f2b48/Hero_Zola__53_.jpg","altText":"How to Package Wedding Favors"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:50.874Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"how-to-pose-for-wedding-photos","title":"How to Pose for Wedding Photos + 30 Wedding Picture Poses to Try","excerpt":"Many couples worry about whether or not their wedding portraits will look natural. Our guide on how to pose for wedding photos will help boost your confidence.","publishedAt":"2022-08-26T15:30:57.137Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/62mxiT4UznsfiZpqvEq5Vp/df9db5c700fa4889cf1e3dda120dd1ec/how-to-pose-for-wedding-photos-hero.jpg","altText":"A wedding photographer crouches in a field to capture a shot of a husband and wife, potentially guiding them toward how to pose for wedding photos."},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","body":"You finally [found the right photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer) to capture your special day, but now the thought of stepping in front of the camera has your stomach in knots. You’re not alone! Many couples worry about how their wedding photos will turn out and whether they’ll appear natural.\n\nSince you’ll be looking back on your [wedding album](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-a-personalized-wedding-photo-album) for years to come, of course you want it to be filled with images you’re in love with. To make sure you look and feel great in your portraits, we’ve put together some tips on how to pose for wedding photos, mistakes to avoid, and wedding picture poses to inspire you.\n\n## Find Your Best Side\nLet’s face it: Most of us don’t have perfectly symmetrical faces or bodies. Chances are you have one side that tends to photograph better than the other. You may already know which side you consider your best, but if not, recruit a friend to help you figure it out.\n\nSnap a few test shots to see which side you feel is most flattering, then communicate this preference to your photographer to help you feel more confident in your photos.\n\n## Relax Your Body\nMany people have a tendency to stiffen up when taking photos, especially if they’re nervous. If you focus too hard on creating a specific pose, it could end up looking forced and unnatural.\n\nTo make sure you’re getting the most flattering shots, make it a point to relax your face and body. If you’re trying to recreate a certain pose, don’t focus too much on replicating it exactly and instead do what feels most natural, as this energy will translate into the final photo.\n\n## Straighten Your Posture\nYou might be surprised at just how much your posture affects the look of your wedding photos. Not only that, but standing up straight and tall is an excellent confidence booster.\n\nMake a mental note to correct your posture when possible. Keep your shoulders back, your chest forward, and your neck straight. However, be careful not to take it too far or you may end up looking stiff in your images.\n\n## Make Slow Movements\nFor shots that involve movement, like walking together while holding hands, make an effort to slow your pace and interact with your partner.\n\nIt might feel strange if it seems like you’re moving in slow motion, but that’s exactly what your photographer needs! Taking your time gives them more opportunities to capture shots and also reduces blurriness in the final product.\n\n## Make Use of Angles\nWhen it comes to looking natural in photos, angles are your best friend! Rather than standing side by side with your partner, angle your bodies slightly toward each other. You can also incorporate angles by bending a leg or an arm while posing. This can help loosen your frame and prevent you from looking too stiff.\n\n## Have Fun With Props\nIf you’re camera shy or worried about looking unnatural while posing, try incorporating props into your wedding portraits. This can be a fun way to shift some of the attention off yourself. Depending on your [wedding theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-themes) and personal preference, you might include:\n\n- Neon signs\n- Felt letter boards\n- Balloons\n- Smoke bombs\n- Parasols\n\nSince props give you something else to focus on, you’ll be less likely to overthink your posing and less self-conscious about how you look.\n\n## Don’t Over-Practice\nGenerally, practicing poses ahead of time isn’t necessary since a professional photographer will be able to direct you to get the most flattering and natural-looking shots. While it can feel tempting to practice ahead of time, this can lead to photos that look forced.\n\nSimilarly, while preparing a list of shots you want is a great idea, you shouldn’t focus too much on recreating those specific images exactly.\n\n## Just Be Yourself\nAt the end of the day, your wedding photos should show off your personalities and unique chemistry as a couple. If a certain pose feels awkward or unnatural, feel free to skip over it! Rather than forcing photos that just aren’t you, pose in whatever way feels most comfortable.\n\n## Communicate With Your Photographer\nIt’s important to trust your photographer’s expertise on how to pose for wedding photos, but don’t be afraid to communicate if you’re uncomfortable or just not feeling a certain pose.\n\nThis is why it’s a good idea to make sure your personalities gel before [hiring a photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer). A consultation is a great opportunity to get to know a potential photographer and discuss any concerns you may have. Be sure to put together a list of [questions to ask your photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer) before meeting with them.\n\n__Team-Z Tip:__ Book an engagement session with your photographer before the wedding. This gives you a chance to get more comfortable in front of the camera. Plus, you’ll get a glimpse of their shooting style and personality before the big day!\n\n## Plus: Posing Mistakes to Avoid\nNow that you know how to pose for wedding photos, what should you avoid? These are some common mistakes couples make in their wedding picture poses:\n\n- __Too much PDA:__ Of course you want to feel the love in your photos, but a full-on make-out sesh probably isn’t what you’re going for.\n- __Pressing your arms against your torso:__ This is a simple mistake that makes for a not-so-flattering look. Instead, slightly lift your arms away from your body.\n- __Tensing your shoulders:__ If you notice yourself tensing up out of nervousness, take a few deep breaths to relax the tension in your body.\n- __Not communicating your preferences:__ If you have certain preferences or hang-ups, let your photographer know. Remember that their job is to make you look and feel great!\n- __Not allocating enough time:__ If your photos are rushed, they aren’t going to turn out as you’d hoped. Make sure to set aside enough time for individual portraits as well as group photos with the rest of the wedding party.\n\n![wedding-portrait-dos-and-donts](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Kh0Q09OyaOqbyDFxgAmn8/5cf4d463261eb5426acfceff3da5f029/wedding-portrait-dos-and-donts.png)\n\n## 30 Natural Wedding Picture Poses\nFor many couples, taking wedding portraits can be a nerve-wracking experience. You might worry about your appearance or think you’ll look unnatural. To help ease your mind, we’ve compiled a list of natural wedding \npicture poses for you to try.\n\n### 1. First Look\n![first-look (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/oft4trytbA0krmOQV4isd/f3663d2304f4dbc246e5e22fd39f8fd6/first-look__1_.jpg)\n\nIf you’re doing a first look before the ceremony, photographing it is an absolute must! Rather than posing for a specific shot, just focus on savoring the moment with your partner. Letting things naturally unfold will create a more memorable photo.\n\n### 2. Candid Laughter\n![candid-laughter](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1fd1hSzp0zMdIfs1CtFs1f/5c69ed1698110ad9c97e895c6d15990b/candid-laughter.jpg)\n\nLuckily, this isn’t a photo you need to plan ahead of time! Photographers often have tricks up their sleeves to get you and your partner laughing naturally. These candid moments make for truly unique shots that can’t be replicated.\n\n### 3. Leaning in for a Kiss\n![leaning-in-for-a-kiss](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/35wFXNeenDpwjWDDoXaUic/9ac9fe2647ea73d8b94ec37e70d48727/leaning-in-for-a-kiss.jpg)\n\nThis pose is exactly what it sounds like—lean in for a kiss and let your photographer work their magic! This is a great pose for a close-up photo that shows off your hair and makeup.\n\n### 4. Temple Kiss\n![temple-kiss](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1NN9tBQkYWCyXk7nzsTszo/06f85418496cdaadba89c8c2beaf5707/temple-kiss.jpg)\n\nThis sweet wedding portrait is one we can’t resist mentioning! A soft kiss on the temple is the perfect way to showcase your love—and it can also be a great opportunity for your photographer to get a shot of your bridal bouquet.\n\n### 5. Dress Twirling\n![A woman is captured in a field while twirling in her wedding dress. ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3ru9Omoi1mLjpTcXcBb4Pw/4a442daaea65fb226fa899da149646fc/dress-twirling.jpg)\n\nShow off your wedding dress and bring it to life with a twirl. This is one of those fun wedding picture poses that will have you looking and feeling like a princess! It’s especially magical when captured in an outdoor setting like a field or forest.\n\n### 6. Strolling Together\n![A bride and groom are shown strolling together in a forest while holding hands.](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1vfki4nWTEEVF2fwBqYxlx/537639aeb2bd873e02aef4ce354bf849/strolling-together.jpg)\n\nMoving shots are often the best way to capture the natural chemistry between you and your partner. The photographer will likely instruct you to walk together and talk as if they’re not even there. For a stunning final result, take your time and move slowly. The goal is to give your photographer plenty of time to capture all the right shots!\n\n### 7. Hidden Kiss\n![hidden-kiss](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6N04tCIKLKGF4CA9sw5Og8/7c4768fefc59887a1dce0dcff75efce6/hidden-kiss.jpg)\n\nIf you’re not really into public displays of affection, you’ll love this wedding pose idea! Simply use your bouquet (or another prop) to hide your kiss from the view of the camera. This is another great pose for showing off those seasonal wedding flowers.\n\n### 8. Bouquet in the Air\n![A bride is shown lifting her bouquet into the air and smiling at her new husband as wedding guests clap and cheer in the background.](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6mskFxmaz02bTOdSOEWTIg/53ad8152af7f4603d9b020a6fb78bf18/bouquet-in-the-air.jpg)\n\nCelebrate with your bouquet in the air after becoming newlyweds. This pose can take on many different forms and can be more playful or serious depending on how it’s captured.\n\n### 9. At the Altar\n![at-the-altar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3wSDJ3XlkDKszXkKour8WP/9bb25a98e69225cfc977bae43716b62d/at-the-altar.jpg)\n\nThis pose is the perfect opportunity to showcase an outdoor venue. Stand in front of your wedding altar and exchange a simple forehead kiss.\n\n### 10. Wind-Blown Veil\n![wind-blown-veil](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4jtDaxS8STCvW4NzlDBtVj/c3ea1d08068d1d55276c3c2082bfe49b/wind-blown-veil.jpg)\n\nIf you choose to wear a veil, don’t let that photo opportunity go to waste! Even if it’s not a windy day, you can still recreate this pose. Simply recruit a friend to lift and drop the veil while the photographer snaps the photo.\n\n### 11. Furry Friend Photobomb\n![furry-friend-photobomb](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7A5z0hzm8ZNBDZx5s51Q9t/79a9461dd2299fd8efaa32bbe930a56a/furry-friend-photobomb.jpg)\n\nThis isn’t among typical wedding poses for couples, but we just had to mention it! If you have a pet that you consider a family member, incorporating them into your wedding portraits can be a special touch.\n\n### 12. Side Embrace\n![side-embrace](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4ANemjJQBGEQaE3QzOjP73/e988586038fe8c6d01089872074deaa8/side-embrace.jpg)\n\nFor a simple yet sweet photo, stand side by side while embracing your spouse. To avoid looking stiff, angle your bodies toward each other and touch faces for an even more intimate pose.\n\n### 13. Touching Foreheads\n![touching-foreheads](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/40EntssjSqMkDl1CxlSl2L/c48e329fef7493fcd277babd660b6143/touching-foreheads.jpg)\n\nThe basic forehead touch is a must-have photo for every couple. It’s a beautiful way to show off your chemistry and can also be an opportunity to subtly display your ring or manicure.\n\n### 14. Carefree Dancing\n![carefree-dancing](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/CU0DAGFqqYe6rMNcXqz8h/c00122817e6560313e59c841daef3944/carefree-dancing.jpg)\n\nIncorporating lots of movement into your wedding portrait poses is a fun way to breathe some life into your images. If you and your partner are comfortable with it, dance like there’s not even a photographer there. It might feel awkward at first, but the photos captured will be so worth it!\n\n### 15. Holding Hands\n![holding-hands](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/15MaUpvQqPP01bKjKEEkDh/370c5da26010eebd58ebf63ecb7580c0/holding-hands.jpg) \n\nIf you’re a couple that isn’t too fond of PDA, this one’s for you! Holding hands while facing each other or the photographer is a simple yet surprisingly intimate pose.\n\n### 16. Forehead Kiss\n![forehead-kiss](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6AGDTX7RqWJRjELUmI2aOz/b4f768c10e0e5bb5f76473b0f21252a4/forehead-kiss.jpg)\n\nSimilar to the temple kiss, this sentimental pose is a must-have for any [wedding album](https://www.zola.com/wedding-albums/shop). It can also double as an avenue for capturing details in a hairpiece or bouquet.\n\n### 17. Getting Ready\n![getting-ready](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2hn3lpsZ6FCsGtSPKUokAF/08ecfea28092c967c4c99d2fbf659957/getting-ready.jpg) \n\nDocumenting the prep before the ceremony, like getting ready, can really tell a story in your wedding album. If your photographer is up for it, ask if they’ll arrive early to capture these special moments.\n\n### 18. Romantic Whisper\n![romantic-whisper](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VbErlwxlqzBR4cHzUQGBO/2832e528bd07b5472cf4321bb914df4b/romantic-whisper.jpg)\n\nThis is another one that might feel a little awkward at first, but it almost always results in a beautiful candid shot. Whisper something sweet, silly, or even spicy in your partner’s ear and let your photographer capture their reaction.\n\n### 19. Looking into Each Other’s Eyes\n![looking-into-each-others-eyes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3cOTzEGXCDS54o2HVFBVwD/16fa4750191fbd9838a93ce29f84a0ab/looking-into-each-others-eyes.jpg)\n\nNeed we say more? You can get creative with this pose and take it a million different directions depending on your style, whether it’s walking together, embracing, or even dancing together.\n\n### 20. Admiring Glance\n![admiring-glance](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/30SSk48DOCewm1zG6qvmPh/f8ed7060cb66619fabcd344d20d8b235/admiring-glance.jpg)\n\nThis is one of our all-time favorite wedding photography poses for couples. Standing together, look into the camera while your partner gazes at you admiringly. Then switch roles.\n\n### 21. Playful Kisses\n![playful-kisses](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5SJClBE7bTVI7kaNRXMPAN/3ff3e0f5bcbcfa08c761285fcc0d7a0b/playful-kisses.jpg) \n\nIf you’re a couple that doesn’t feel comfortable sharing super intimate kisses on camera, opt for playful kisses instead! This could mean a simple kiss on the cheek or even a peck on the nose.\n\n### 22. Admiring the Bouquet\n![admiring-the-bouquet](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/358YP452Aw6UuZ2inzeijq/3b2a44743f5aeb0a354df0f90511b197/admiring-the-bouquet.jpg)\n\nShow off your makeup, hairpiece, and flowers all in one pose. Hold your bouquet at waist-level and look down as if you’re admiring it. You can smile or take on a more serious expression—whatever feels most natural to you.\n\n### 23. Adjusting the Boutonniere\n![adjusting-the-boutonniere](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/79TYK0QKPnVylV8JsbLnE5/79443a6eb76632a1e2793f9d6b31d6ba/adjusting-the-boutonniere.jpg)\n\nThis getting ready shot is a subtle way to show off a boutonniere. If you’re not wearing a boutonniere, you could also adjust your tie, watch, or another focal point of your attire.\n\n### 24. Back-to-Back\n![back-to-back](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1DA9yTzu9ihb6C6VLPlcyv/89af5ccb3ef3f6049ca3109406ca276c/back-to-back.jpg)\n\nWhen it comes to wedding day photo poses, most will involve interacting with your partner on some level. For a unique and elegant photograph, switch it up and stand back-to-back. This shot looks especially great when it’s zoomed out to showcase the venue.\n\n### 25. Embrace from Behind\n![embrace-from-behind](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Y9SaOPYPUZQVDc5lvdLd5/683a3fbc17f044f63d45e35d15413169/embrace-from-behind.jpg)\n\nIf you ever attended prom, you’re probably already familiar with this pose! One partner stands behind the other and embraces them around the waist or shoulders.\n\n### 26. Dip and Kiss\n![dip-and-kiss](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1oqHgbgFB79iZdNyJdq4gv/ccdb2ea410f92303b02ded2d05cf49e7/dip-and-kiss.jpg)\n\nThis is a classic, romantic shot that almost always looks stunning! Have your partner spin you around and then tip you back for a peck on the lips. Full-body shots like these are perfect for showing off your wedding attire.\n\n### 27. Spinning Around\n![spinning-around](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6MLtsQNTVB7NoRnq2R7JbL/708cea343b80b0687f7996c5a8544e95/spinning-around.jpg)\n\nIf the dip and kiss isn’t really your thing—or you just don’t want to risk falling on the floor!—skip that part and just do the spin instead.\n\n### 28. Piggyback Ride\n![piggyback-ride](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/rMrSV4wOrhpBLDNExXoxH/a3c310fb18b7f0fd341e8f068cbfc3b9/piggyback-ride.jpg)\n\nHop on your partner’s back for a short piggyback ride! If you’re kids at heart, this is one of the best candid wedding couple poses to try. Plus, it’ll add the perfect playful touch to your wedding gallery.\n\n### 29. Under the Veil\n![under-the-veil](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4U642DKZTads8h2wQfcnwn/efbbbd004f48263b5684c31af0c736be/under-the-veil.jpg)\n\nIf you’re wearing a veil on your wedding day, this is a pose you won’t want to miss out on! Drape the veil over both of your heads and share a kiss. Or, for something equally as intimate, stare longingly into each other’s eyes.\n\n### 30. Ring Shot\n![ring-shot](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/73Q0lUbcJnzPnXIPBQgYD9/2c0ad73b2e7814058c3911bdecf92cd9/ring-shot.jpg)\n\nYour wedding gallery just wouldn’t be complete without showing off your new rings! An easy way to achieve this is by placing your hand on the back of your partner’s neck or holding their cheek while locking eyes.\n\nIf you’re unsure about how to pose for wedding photos, stepping in front of the camera can be a nerve-wracking experience. You can boost your confidence by communicating with your photographer, avoiding common posing mistakes, and preparing a [photo shot list](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-photo-list) ahead of time.\n\nStill haven’t found the perfect photographer to capture your big day? Now’s the time to head over to our [vendor page](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-photographers) to find someone near you!\n","tag":"List","updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:50.139Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"including-stepparents-in-wedding","title":"Navigating How to Include Stepparents in Your Wedding","excerpt":"Whether you're close or not, your stepparents are part of your family. Find out how to navigate difficult conversations, if necessary, and include your stepparents in your wedding.","author":"Elizabeth Blasi","publishedAt":"2019-11-29T22:04:21.997Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7K5f5EMl6aZQF3BHo1HCVm/3e0c23078b1eeb7eab5ce90c9ea7e5c0/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_Step-parents-tati-and-roman-photo_1080x720.jpg","altText":"stepparents at wedding"},"heroCredit":"Tati And Roman","body":"Every family dynamic is different. Whether your parents are still together, [divorced](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/divorced-parents-wedding-planning), or remarried, including them and their potential new spouses in your wedding may be on your mind. There are a lot of circumstances to consider—namely your relationship with your stepparent(s). As with so many wedding planning topics, communication is key. There are right and wrong ways to lay out expectations and manage feelings. Here’s how to tackle including your step parent or parents in your wedding. \n\n![INLINE EmilieFarrisPhotography 1080x720 Austin&Lizzy](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/20Uqk2Mk6nI9a4KSdMDpAT/0750c36693ccfffd65db276599b9175a/INLINE_EmilieFarrisPhotography_1080x720_Austin_Lizzy.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Emilie Farris Photography\n\n## Consider the relationship.\nAs we said, communication is key and that communication will largely depend on your relationship with your step-parent(s). You may be close to them—they could have helped raise you—you may be just getting to know them, or you may not know them at all or simply not care for them. Your dynamic can also rely heavily on your relationship (and theirs) with your biological parents. There are these situations and many in between. Here’s a little on how to navigate these more common scenarios:\n- __Your stepparent helped raise you.__ If your stepparent took on the responsibility of a biological parent, you may feel as if they deserve the same attention and acknowledgment. Express this to them. Depending on how close you are, it may be [assumed that they’ll be included](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/in-laws-expectations-for-wedding). That’s great. Still, let them know you want them to take on the traditional mother or father role in your wedding. See how they feel and edit the role as necessary to make you both comfortable.\n- __Your stepparent and biological parent get along.__ If your stepparent and parents get along well then that’s great. However, it could also raise some issues when it comes to designating roles. Assuming your biological parents are still involved in your life, as well as any stepparent(s), you’ll have to figure out who will do what. Gather everyone together (preferably in person), and discuss the best ways to move forward with incorporating one another into the wedding day activities. Whether it’s splitting traditional responsibilities or adding more, it’s your wedding day, so you’re allowed to make up the rules. \n- __Your stepparent and biological parent don’t get along.__ It’s important to see how everyone’s feeling. Sit with each parent individually and feel out the vibe. Share how you ideally would like to include (or not include) each person. Again, depending on your relationships, your stepparent or your biological parent may be expecting to be included or excluded. So, you may not have to set too many boundaries. If you do, however, communicate them early and firmly. You can’t please everyone.\n\n## How To Deal With Hard Conversations\nFor some, stepparents fit naturally into wedding planning. For others, that’s not the case. Manage relationships and expectations without losing your cool or hurting feelings by taking each scenario case by case.\n- __You don’t want to include your stepparent in the wedding.__ This isn’t an easy topic, especially if the stepparent in question doesn’t already assume they won’t be included. But don’t let that stop you. Sit with your stepparent (and your biological parent if you’d prefer) and talk it out. Address the topic up front and early on. Lay out your reasons, be kind, and move on. \n- __Your stepparent doesn’t want to be included in the wedding.__ For any number of reasons, your stepparent may decline involvement in your wedding. If this doesn’t bother you, great! If it does, talk to them. You may find out they’re worried about overstepping and backed out to avoid conflict. A conversation can usually lead to a solution and less confusion. \n- __You don’t really know your stepparent.__ If one (or both) of your parents remarried later in life and you haven’t gotten the chance to know their new spouse, take this opportunity to do so. You don’t need to give them a role in the wedding, but finding time to bond a bit before the wedding will help make everyone more comfortable—which will cut any tension on your day. \n\n![INLINE UedaPhotography 1080x720 Melissa&Matthew](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5FrpRxMOVtcUnKQQfJhwlP/38cdb331216a757cf20f831e3863dbb5/INLINE_UedaPhotography_1080x720_Melissa_Matthew.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Ueda Photography\n\n## How To Involve Stepparents In Your Wedding\nBeyond just standard wedding roles, there are a lot of ways to include your stepparents in your ceremony and at your reception. Plus, there are a handful of things to consider to maximize comfort for all parties and dissipate any discomfort.\n- __Make the appropriate seating arrangements.__ Being a plus-one to either the father or the mother of a bride or groom has it’s set of perks—like prime seating, for example. Be calculated and respectful when putting together the seating chart for your reception, though. As always, assess the relationships. If your parent’s new spouse gets along with your other parent, they can sit together. Alternatively, if they don’t, keep them separate. Consider giving your parents each their own table and filling it with appropriate friends and family to ease any tension. \n- __Include them in the procession.__ If you want to include your stepparents in the actual ceremony, have them process down the aisle at the beginning of the ceremony. They can walk with their spouse ahead of the wedding party, they can escort the bride or groom, or you can find another way to alter the order to include them. \n- __Let them make a toast.__ If you’re close to your stepparent but not close enough to, say, do a stepfather-daughter dance, assign them a reception toast. They can say grace or a few words about your relationship along with any [other speeches lined up](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/give-wedding-speech-hate-public-speaking) for the evening.\n- __Mentioned them on the invitations.__ If your stepparent is contributing to hosting the ceremony or reception, it’s customary to include his or her name on the [invitation and programs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop). It’s in good taste and also lets your guests know he or she played a role in creating your day. \n\nAt the end of the day, those in your family who care and love you will accept the decisions you make when it comes to your wedding day. ","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Weddings are celebrations and things can get out of hand. Here's exactly how to deal with drunk wedding guests (and even prevent too much over-drinking).","title":"How to Handle a Super Drunk Wedding Guest","slug":"drunk-wedding-guest","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/rYISVmCrOfIIgAmkT3uFy/9765708ee6387e13b1da83eb0163a74f/pexels-cottonbro-3171736.jpg","altText":"drunk wedding guests"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Late RSVPs are a part of every wedding. Don't stress. Instead, follow our guide to kindly reminding your guests to please RSVP for your wedding.","title":"How to Politely Remind Guests to RSVP","slug":"how-to-politely-remind-guests-to-rsvp","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/cyEtVw7w3FQ3LQmZyderX/645ab8ea730694fc8ea75c72a3d828f4/How-to-Politely-Remind-Guests-to-RSVP.jpg","altText":"rsvp cards and reminders"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wedding speeches have a tendency to go off the rails. Get your reception back on track with our advice on how to stop a wedding speech that's gone on inappropriate, on a tangent, or worse.","title":"How to Stop a Rambling Wedding Speech","slug":"stop-rambling-wedding-speech","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6nTAaesG9kPfw08kV9hipl/30a8f230b32756b1531f3ad6efcf9317/How-to-Stop-a-Rambling-Wedding-Speech.jpg","altText":"father gives wedding speech"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You can't invite everyone to your wedding—for a number of reasons. Read on to learn how to talk to \nfriends who aren't invited to your wedding, tactfully.","title":"How to Talk to Friends Who Weren't Invited to Your Wedding","slug":"how-to-talk-to-friends-werent-invited-to-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ShpgpD8f4LDnIkGSIbmLl/bc3ebf05efe4de156cf9ae2b8f25db91/How-to-Talk-to-Friends-Who-Werent-Invited-to-Your-Wedding.jpg","altText":"friends talking about wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"What's the difference between a wedding party & a bridal party? Learn more & get expert planning tips to help you prepare for the big day.","title":"Bridal Party vs. Wedding Party: What's the Difference? ","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-party-and-do-you-need-one","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/68X8glzRII6myuoYsI6E0S/f9b9a7d44f481f5628e374b6b0c1e744/Hero_New_GildedGlamWeddingatSkyRoomatCrownePlazaMidtown_LoveInMotionLLC.jpg","altText":"formal portrait of wedding party. Bride and bride maids with bouquet are sitting on stair in the front , Groom and groom men are standing at the back"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wedding toasts are tricky. We’ve got some helpful tips to guide you towards a great wedding toast that you and your favorite couple will remember fondly for years, so grab your notepads and get ready for some key(note) advice.\n","title":"How to Write a Wedding Toast: The Ultimate Guide","slug":"how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/x9jCrc9cdiEKCCISOo0Yq/a0e027d2c2668c23cc22b4d5d22f577c/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Graphic of two clinking champagne glasses"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You can't invite everyone to be part of your wedding party even if some friends expect it. Talk to them with tact with our guide to telling friends they aren't in the wedding party.","title":"How to Tell Friends They Aren't In the Wedding Party","slug":"tell-friends-they-arent-in-wedding-party","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5F4odoTJpLrAnOwFq64p5g/499bf574bd3f594424310a0257fea2cd/How-to-Tell-Friends-They-Aren-t-In-the-Wedding-Party_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"couple celebrates wedding with wedding party"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Your wedding website provides your wedding guests with all the necessary info about your wedding. Here's exactly what to include and what to skip on your wedding website.","title":"11 Dos and Don'ts for Your Wedding Website","slug":"dos-and-donts-wedding-website","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6IftHAsGNVhNIVybKGWqoc/c77aacc7e75e08ce7472ee66b2624c47/hero_11_Dos_and_Don_ts_for_Your_Wedding_Website.jpg","altText":"zola wedding website"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:49.298Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"when-does-the-bouquet-toss-happen","title":"When Does the Bouquet Toss Happen?","excerpt":"Plan the bouquet toss to happen at the right time during your wedding.","author":"Shameika Rhymes","publishedAt":"2021-02-26T15:46:50.270Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6WOfALixOt36gT98mBvhuZ/2d26a3e6cae7251c96f33580729507f2/Hero_Zola__79_.jpg","altText":"When Does the Bouquet Toss Happen"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- The wedding bouquet toss is a tradition where the bride tosses her bouquet, and whoever catches it is next in line to get married.\n- Plan the bouquet toss for during the wedding reception, traditionally towards the end. \n- Opt to toss the bouquet earlier, and do it immediately after the ceremony or at the start of the reception.","body":"Weddings can often combine traditional and non-traditional elements. The bouquet toss is a wedding tradition that has existed for hundreds of years. This wedding day staple usually involves the bride tossing her bouquet over her shoulders into a group of single ladies. \n \n\nThe [tradition](https://oureverydaylife.com/what-happens-if-you-catch-the-bridal-bouquet-12083108.html) can be traced back as far as the 1300s and is still practiced in American and European weddings today. The lucky lady that catches the bouquet is expected to be the next to walk down the aisle. It's competitive, as many try to elbow their way to being the next bride. Ultimately, the decision is up to the couple to determine if tossing the bouquet is the right tradition for their wedding and their guests. [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) is here to help you decide at what point to incorporate it into your big day. \n\n![When Does the Bouquet Toss Happen?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3XcteHt1HyiFwXC9Tyw6mt/0cf481a3a00341408282976baf0097de/inline_TialynJphotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // TialynJ Photography\n\n### Toss It During the Reception\n \nIf you’re planning to include the bouquet toss tradition into your wedding reception, you’ll probably want to figure out the timing of when it should happen. The practice of the toss gets a bad rap, and not everyone is into the idea of elbowing other people to jump and catch some flowers. So, it’s okay to skip the tradition if you don’t think that many people will participate in the activity. Ideally, most brides opt to toss the bouquet towards the end of the wedding reception. For example, if you’re having a four-hour reception, then plan the bouquet toss during the third hour. That way, everyone has had time to enjoy the cocktail hour, eat dinner, and let loose on the dance floor. It’s the perfect time to signal your gal pals back to the dance floor. Remember, this isn’t a mandatory activity, but if you choose to toss the bridal bouquet, make sure that you get an extra bouquet to toss so that you can keep your original one as a keepsake. \n\n### Coordinate the Timeline\n\nWork with your wedding planner and the DJ to determine your reception timeline, so that you know exactly what time you want to toss the bouquet. You’ll want to choose an upbeat song, empowering, or sweet to get the single ladies hyped and onto the dance floor. Let the DJ know what type of announcement you want him or her to make to signal that it’s time for the toss. Some brides opt to toss the bouquet during the second half of the reception when everyone is already up and dancing. Doing it at the end of the night is a fun way to pass the torch onto the next potential bride. \n\nBouquet Toss Tip: Things could get a little rowdy and competitive, especially among your single friends, so if you think that might happen, then plan the toss for after young kids and elderly guests have left the reception. \n\n### Why Wait? Toss the Bouquet!\n \nIf taking a non-traditional approach is more your thing, then try spreading the luck early on and do the bride’s bouquet toss after you make your entrance into the reception. Or, if you want to skip doing it during the reception, try after your ceremony exit when you step out of the venue into your crowd of guests. Call the toss participants to the front so that they can catch your bouquet; it will set the tone for the party that’s to come at the reception. \n\n__Bouquet Toss Tip:__ If you plan the toss earlier and only booked your [photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/do-you-need-a-wedding-videographer-and-photographer) for a short period, they are sure to catch the moment on camera. \n\n### Bouquet Toss Alternatives\n\n![When Does the Bouquet Toss Happen?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/28AFDNfjHBsVf1PeTgvTaP/252cb1ddc1f08e63487df6eca7444c11/inline_Nine10_Photobooth_Images.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Nine10 Photobooth Images\n\nIf you’re completely against tossing a bouquet, don’t worry, there are other options. \nYou may feel like tossing your bouquet is unfair to your unmarried friends, or it’s dangerous with a large group of women jumping into each other wrestling for the bouquet. Instead, you can hand off a bouquet to a family member, such as a mother, grandmother, sister, or even a couple that’s been married for a long time. Or, try separating the flowers of your bouquet and handing out individual stems to your bridesmaids or loved ones. \n\nAs a couple, the decision is yours on whether or not you incorporate the bouquet toss into your wedding. You can tailor it to your preference or leave it out altogether. Remember, [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) is here for you. The team is here to help offer advice and assist with all the details of your wedding—from the wedding party and [wedding ceremony](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-the-wedding-ceremony-order-of-events) to the wedding cake and bouquet toss. ","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Get inspired with these engagement photo outfits ideas. Plus tips and tricks to help you choose the perfect outfits for photos you'll love now and forever.","title":"Engagement Photo Outfits Ideas","slug":"what-to-wear-for-your-engagement-photos","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2HdV6dlwgN9nLf3kRNksF1/3b43ea55afc14ef156f78c1330d6d579/Hero_New_RubyRedApple-InspiredStyledShoot_LaurenLovePhotography.jpg","altText":"Couple in circle image with pink background. She wears a red dress and he wears a gray suit."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Dress to impress! Your go-to guide for wedding guest attire, from formal to casual. Find the perfect look for every dress code and celebration.","title":"Wedding Guest Attire: A Guide to Every Dress Code","slug":"what-to-wear-to-a-wedding","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5bgD1lwZNmIWCwyoiQgUI/abb4b34d02674b500f4edb610fb1eea6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding guests laughing with bride at wedding receptions"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"There are many wedding suits to choose from, but, rest assured, we got you covered. Learn about the different wedding suit styles for your special day with this informative guide. ","title":"What Are the Different Wedding Suit Styles?","slug":"what-are-the-different-wedding-suit-styles","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4njJPne049MMwDcBon8aAt/a6aefad170a912821f7560c828d97ccf/Hero_FestiveMulticulturalCeremony_LishaWangPhotography.jpg","altText":"Different Wedding Suit Styles"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:47.824Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"top-10-wedding-reception-ideas-to-surprise-your-groom","title":"Top 10 Wedding Reception Ideas to Surprise Your Groom","excerpt":"Surprise your groom with thoughtful inclusions at the reception. To get you inspired, we’ve got 10 groom-approved wedding reception ideas that will knock the fancy socks off of your partner and make your wedding day even more memorable.","publishedAt":"2019-06-13T03:52-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6eVI4wNpvZOy8VTUUs5aga/93273da37c712d850ea5c344184f9647/Hero_1.jpg","altText":"happy Groom At Reception"},"heroCredit":"Viera Photographics","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/viera-photographics--3","body":"Let’s face it: [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) isn’t every guy’s “thing.” While hopefully you’re making most major decisions about your upcoming wedding together as a couple, the bulk of the planning minutiae—[How much should you budget for flowers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-floral-budget)? Gold or silver flatware? [Plated or family style](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer)?—might fall to the bride (and her mom, her sister, her BFF…). If you’re leaning in to the role of wedding planner but want to make sure your groom’s fully represented in the day-of festivities, make sure to include little things throughout the celebration that you know he’ll appreciate and that will show off his personality. Even better? Surprise him with these thoughtful inclusions. To get you inspired, we’ve got 10 groom-approved wedding reception ideas that will knock the fancy socks off of your partner and make your wedding day even more memorable.\n\n![NykCali](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1rlJENRYfeqHx2Mzmy1Dxq/7f71179f10caa61930f9b1e524fd2055/NykCali.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Nyk + Cali](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n### 1. Cigar Bar\n \nIn proverbial days of yore, cigar smoking was reserved for manly types lounging in gentleman’s clubs or sitting around a game of poker, or passed around to celebrate the birth of a child. These days, this centuries-old practice has seen a revival at wedding receptions in the form of ritzy, outdoor cigar bars. Especially when paired with a few sipping whiskeys, your male guests (and especially your groom) will love it. Bonus points if can hire someone to hand-roll cigars on site.\n\n\n![WilliamWalkerPhotog](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2J0vWmZKWveV7n4x0oiJ6H/fcfca9a9ddd188dabe337b3eed0a0857/WilliamWalkerPhotog.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [William Walker Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n\n### 2. Beer Tasting\n\nGot a brew-loving groom on your hands? If so, surprise him with a beer tasting station at your wedding reception. It’s (relatively) simple to execute, and he and all your guests will love getting to try out an assortment of local brews. Snag a few of these [Bamboo & Slate Craft Beer Tasting Sets on Zola, and you’re set](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/cathysconcepts_bambooslate_craftbeer_tastingset).\n\n![MozingoPhotog](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3xHtStRyU7kHwm2UvtEnRO/5ad9d59f45e454e0d354fcb2b08859be/MozingoPhotog.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Mozingo Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n\n### 3. Bourbon Bar\n\nAlternatively, consider incorporating a bourbon bar (or Scotch or tequila or whiskey…whatever your guy prefers) at your reception or during your cocktail hour. He’ll feel right at home (and/or like a bit of a high-rolling celebrity) when he’s greeting guests with a glass of his favorite luxury liquor in hand.\n\n![DanaCubbageWedsBOURBON(1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1VZtAfvt27UafX496rUW1O/cef6cf287230986ed5e40d7ac0bbc1c3/DanaCubbageWedsBOURBON_1_.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Dana Cubbage Weddings](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n### 4. Lawn Games\n\nWeddings have a lot of pomp and circumstance, but often include very little leisure time where brides and grooms can catch up with old friends and family in a relaxed setting. We’ve got a solution: lawn games. Whether it’s frisbee, corn hole, croquet, or whatever your groom finds relaxing, he (and everyone else) will love these chill, outdoor activities.\n\n![KiblerPhotogCORNHOLE(1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/mR5mX8kOwurBEJS9aUxst/9a27f5ac8a8ab3b74f6a3f5dad51c70f/KiblerPhotogCORNHOLE_1_.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Kibler Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n\n### 5. Rockin’ Reception Entertainment\n\nAnother way to shower affection on your new hubby on your wedding day is to surprise him with some kickass [entertainment](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search) at the reception. Whether it’s a live band, a hilarious standup comedian, or a more subtle performer like a caricature or a tattoo artist (yes, that’s a trending wedding reception idea!), the crowd and your groom will love every moment of the unexpected performance. Bonus points if you’re able to score one of your man’s favorite bands, or if you request the fight song of your guy’s alma mater. There’s no better way to get him and his buddies pumped up.\n\n![AllisonKuhnCreative-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2xZTH8nQo5pgev8UrpuWAU/68cab18b566c2c23d9e74196ed3890e0/AllisonKuhnCreative-1.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Allison Kuhn Creative](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n### 6. VIP Lounge\n\nWant to give your groom the VIP treatment? Set up a swanky lounge space at your wedding reception. Visualize a tented area filled with sofas and other plush furniture, chill music, a TV screen with cool videos or a photo slideshow of you two, and a small specialty bar. Now, granted, you don’t want your guests (groom included) to spend all their time chillaxing in the lounge tent (after all, he’s now your designated dance partner for life), but for a few minutes of wedding reception down time, you can’t go wrong with a VIP lounge.\n\n![JeannineMariePhotog](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/32xsUpikvmS7WWxff2jhTo/26b97d95756d7630253de3e65b87fa7c/JeannineMariePhotog.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Jeannine Marie Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n### 7. Groom’s Cake\n\nA Southern tradition that can apply regardless of your zip code, a groom’s cake is a special homage to the groom via sugar, butter, flour, and all kinds of creativity. Generally representative of some part of the groom’s background or personality, the groom’s cake is themed and contrasts with the traditionally white wedding cake. Especially if your betrothed has a sweet tooth, a surprise groom’s cake could be the literal icing on his perfect wedding day.\n\n![RichardBellPhotogGROOMCAKE(1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/240skXwB6TDjjkGPnVEK4h/b7c3a3fb28b706674ff2dd4a3bde7286/RichardBellPhotogGROOMCAKE_1_.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Richard Bell Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n### 8. Fantasy Getaway Car\n\nIf your man has a thing for sweet rides, we have the ultimate wedding day surprise for him: rent a classic car (bonus if you know his favorite make and model) and present it to him either at the post-reception departure or after your ceremony. When he walks out and see those gleaming wheels waiting for him, he’ll be just as giddy as you were the moment you found your dress.\n\n![1216StudioLLC](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5lL2WOJXCY0ZlMaakfw5qt/4d9a0387a0d30b6aedf1f97ee30d30ef/1216StudioLLC.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [1216 Studio LLC](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n\n### 9. Fictional Character Attendees\n\nFor a reception detail that will stand out above all the rest, hire a professional (or ask a buddy) to dress up like your guy’s favorite sports mascot, superhero, or fictional character (we see you, Darth Vader). We’ve seen this done a few times over the years and never tire of the groom’s shocked reaction when one of these special guests walks through the door. Plus, what’s more memorable than dancing to “Shout” with Batman?\n\n![IvoryDoorStudio](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1RIcv3gnXJ7HsR8bizmUgU/18a8dd38a6a667afd0c599e23de67441/IvoryDoorStudio.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Ivory Door Studio](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\n### 10. His Favorite Food As a Late-Night Snack\n\nSomeone once said that the fastest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. While we think that the good, old-fashioned recipe of love, honesty, communication, and support is still the winning combo, there’s no harm in surprising your groom and guests with his favorite late-night snack. Who wouldn’t be smitten with sliders and truffle fries to soak up all the effects of that open bar on the ride home?\n\n![ArtedeVie](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4A8bpRYtVyBCThYSndY69d/16eb7e4148bb3d72a9ebf226f5ca25e6/ArtedeVie.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Arte de Vie Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*\n\n\nHow are you planning on surprising your groom on your wedding day? Leave us a note in the comments below.\n","tag":"Reception","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Need inspiration for your wedding hashtag? Here's a complete guide to designing a wedding hashtag perfect for your big day.","title":"9 Easy Ways to Create Your Wedding Hashtag","slug":"9-easy-ways-to-create-your-wedding-hashtag","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/23UVWEQPhMa4e3bqlKEXQj/30624e2537f56014b66d9109d45a464f/Hero_New__1_.jpg","altText":"couple with wedding hashtag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Get all your questions about bachelor parties—from who is responsible for planning to what to do—in this comprehensive guide. ","title":"A Guide to Bachelor Parties","slug":"a-guide-to-bachelor-parties","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6xYvE1cGvmqiEWoqyMSoy0/c820939acd9d2ea06c136a83dc1d8a41/Hero_VentolaPhotography.jpg","altText":"groom and groomsmen"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Get inspired with these engagement photo outfits ideas. Plus tips and tricks to help you choose the perfect outfits for photos you'll love now and forever.","title":"Engagement Photo Outfits Ideas","slug":"what-to-wear-for-your-engagement-photos","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2HdV6dlwgN9nLf3kRNksF1/3b43ea55afc14ef156f78c1330d6d579/Hero_New_RubyRedApple-InspiredStyledShoot_LaurenLovePhotography.jpg","altText":"Couple in circle image with pink background. She wears a red dress and he wears a gray suit."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We're here to tell you why building a wedding registry is still really necessary, regardless of whether you live together before marriage. ","title":"How to Create a Registry if You Already Live Together ","slug":"how-to-create-a-registry-if-you-already-live-together","topic":"Registry & gifts","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2t9B3SaAsMKwg8yS2IiAOW/6f788ac4a6864c55e10e4045d11615f5/How-to-Create-a-Registry-If-You-Already-Live-Together.jpg","altText":"man and woman holding hands in front of a mint green door seen only from waist down"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Buying alcohol for your reception can save you money—if you do it right. Find out exactly how much beer, wine, and liquor to buy for your celebration with our guide.","title":"How to Buy Alcohol for Your Reception","slug":"how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3SbUkbv2NGxQTE7VuuPd6K/e4852ce43be910ea6827182386fc7d30/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"alcohol for a wedding reception"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"A signature wedding drink or cocktail can be a great way for couples to add a personal touch to their reception. Get inspired by these wedding signature drinks.","title":"50 Signature Wedding Drinks: Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Reception","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h3gAYw13rSUVZfD0AvUuk/17fc3834c08759920aa0df43bb1e8dad/pexels-yoav-franco-19216796.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom with signature cocktails in hand"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Even if you’re a skilled cocktail party hostess, tackling the wedding cocktail hour is no easy feat. Employ these essential tips, and rest assured that you’ll have an easy-breezy cocktail hour that your guests will enjoy.","title":"Top 10 Tips for a Successful Cocktail Hour","slug":"top-10-tips-for-successful-cocktail-hour","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Reception","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1CqGHijiqPqnDf1tI5LhuC/ff643246cf4ff7ee85673d1731db0d63/peach-colored-drinks-with-rosemary-on-tray.jpg","altText":"a tray of glasses containing orange colored refreshing summer cocktail"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Don't let creating your wedding seating chart stress you out. Keep it simple with Zola's rundown of exactly how and where to place all of your wedding guests.","title":"How to Create a Wedding Seating Chart","slug":"how-to-create-a-wedding-seating-chart","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3DV0Ja3L7ldZ0d6HoJtdD9/1e5cb36e0254300214b4ad6130556f5b/Hero_New__1_.jpg","altText":"outdoor wedding seating chart"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:47.077Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"stop-rambling-wedding-speech","title":"How to Stop a Rambling Wedding Speech","excerpt":"Wedding speeches have a tendency to go off the rails. Get your reception back on track with our advice on how to stop a wedding speech that's gone on inappropriate, on a tangent, or worse.","author":"Kathleen Wong","publishedAt":"2019-10-10T14:58:18.602Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6nTAaesG9kPfw08kV9hipl/30a8f230b32756b1531f3ad6efcf9317/How-to-Stop-a-Rambling-Wedding-Speech.jpg","altText":"father gives wedding speech"},"heroCredit":"Zola","body":"For most people, being assigned to give a [wedding speech](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast) is a nerve-wracking experience. Even the most prepared and experienced speakers might sweat at the thought of hopping up in front of wedding guests and attempting to do the newlyweds justice with just a few enlightening sentences. With all that pressure, [wedding speeches](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/give-wedding-speech-hate-public-speaking) have a tendency to go haywire. Thanks to alcohol, anxiety, or attention, it’s easy for people to end up rambling or mumbling the rest of their speech. Keep your wedding speeches and your reception on track. Here’s how to gracefully cut off a wedding speech when it starts to go overboard. \n\n## What makes a wedding speech worthy of an interruption?\nWedding speeches should be short, sweet, and always focused on the newlyweds. Obviously, the style of the speech should be tailored to whoever has the honor of speaking. If the best man is a jokester then expect lots of laughs. However, there are a few symptoms of a speech heading south. \n\n- __It took a dark turn.__ If someone’s speech turns toward upsetting topics, stories, or even darker humor, it might be wise to step in before the entire mood of the wedding shifts. \n- __It’s turned to a tangent.__ Most commonly, wedding speeches end up on a tangent that leaves everyone sitting there listening to an unrelated story about *“this one time when…”* When you notice the topic shifting from the newlyweds, give it a minute to come back. If the tangent continues, step in. \n- __It’s getting embarrassing.__ Embarrassing stories are pretty commonplace for wedding speeches. However, if you know for a fact that the bride didn’t want a certain story from college to be revealed to her coworkers and relatives then you might need to cut off the speech ASAP.\n- __It became controversial.__ On that note, wedding speeches should avoid topics that you wouldn’t typically want to bring up at the Thanksgiving dinner table. Politics, for example, aren’t really wedding speech material. \n\n![INLINE DolcePhotography 1080x720 Megan&Roberto](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Gms4De3mnsiWZ76eYv6yI/d2782f21b01d874d90daf80e38b7285b/INLINE_DolcePhotography_1080x720_Megan_Roberto.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Dolce Photography\n\n## How to Stop a Wedding Speech\nNow that you know *when* to stop a wedding speech, let’s talk about how to stop a wedding speech—with as much tact as possible. \n\n### Show a sign.\nYour first attempt to halt a rambling speech should include a signal to the speaker from the back of the room with your hand. This is the least disruptive way to get their attention without getting the audience’s attention. In fact, if the speaker knows that they’re going to be giving a speech, let them know ahead of time that you’ll be giving them a signal when it’s time to wrap up the speech. Blame it on wanting to keep the reception moving so the couple can celebrate and get dancing.\n\n### Wait for proper timing.\nSometimes a hand signal just doesn’t get the right message across and it’s time to physically interrupt someone’s speech. Interrupting anyone who is speaking can feel incredibly awkward and uncomfortable. We’re taught to not interrupt so this behavior can feel backward. \n\nWhen someone’s speech starts going south, make sure to pay close attention to timing. Don’t just jump in while they’re mid-sentence. That will only embarrass them and draw attention to the fact that they were struggling with their speech. Try to wait until there’s a natural lull in their speech like a pause or a moment of brief applause.\n\n### Blame the schedule.\nTo ease awkwardness as much as possible, try blaming time and the tight wedding schedule for cutting someone’s speech short. Apologize for cutting them off and be as warm as possible so that the person (and honestly, the audience too) doesn’t feel like anything went wrong. Smooth sailing, folks! It’s all about illusion.\n\n### Thank the person.\nWhen you do have to stop someone mid-speech, make sure to exhibit all your manners! Be as polite as possible. If there is just one thing you do when interrupting a rambling speech, it’s to thank the person for their kind words. Then focus the audience’s attention back onto the newlyweds. \n\n![INLINE TrinityPhotography 1080x720 Hannah&Ryan](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5EinP0LBLibPumFac6UyHV/210fe18918ed9abeafbfe1c4d515657d/INLINE_TrinityPhotography_1080x720_Hannah_Ryan.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Trinity Photography\n\n## Who should stop a wedding speech?\nYou may not feel like the right person to cut off one of the bride’s family members or one of the couple’s close friends. That makes sense. It could dad who gets too long-winded, after all. Who stops the speech can be just as important as how the speech is stopped. Here are some people you can count on to help.\n- __The wedding planner.__ If the couple has employed a planner or day-of coordinator, he or she can step in to keep things moving and cut a rambling speech off. This person is probably already privy to any potential difficult speech moments (maybe the groom’s sister tends to swear and tangent a lot) so he or she will likely be on the lookout to step in.\n- __The DJ or band.__ The wedding entertainment usually plays a big role in keeping the reception and speech timeline moving. They’ll introduce and also call for applause or a toast at the beginning and end of each speech. So, in a pinch, get their attention and they can play the speech-giver off in a funny and gentle way.\n- __The parents.__ Not the most ideal situation, but sometimes you need a parental direction to get things back on track. If the offending speech-giver isn’t mom or dad, then perhaps a parent can give the hand signal to wrap it up. This could be especially helpful if the person giving the speech is a close family friend or sibling.\n\nRambling wedding speeches may be a bit uncomfortable and awkward but in all honesty, they’re miniscule compared to everything else that can go haywire or “wrong” during a wedding. As long as you’re polite but assertive, you can smoothly regain control over any wedding speech mishap!","tag":"How To","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Your wedding centerpieces don't have to feature dramatic florals in order to be beautiful. Save money and get creative with these 29 unique centerpiece ideas for your wedding reception. ","title":"29 Unique Wedding Centerpiece Ideas You'll Say \"Yes\" To","slug":"wedding-centerpiece-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Wedding Style","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1aWsBliSOvNekdFYz2buxx/d846fe5dd67279c4fdf5c793c8c1fda0/Hero_New_Zola.jpg","altText":"Unique Wedding Centerpiece Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"A signature wedding drink or cocktail can be a great way for couples to add a personal touch to their reception. Get inspired by these wedding signature drinks.","title":"50 Signature Wedding Drinks: Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Reception","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h3gAYw13rSUVZfD0AvUuk/17fc3834c08759920aa0df43bb1e8dad/pexels-yoav-franco-19216796.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom with signature cocktails in hand"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Eating on your wedding day isn't as easy as it sounds. We talked to registered dietitians about how to find the time to eat throughout the day, plus, the best foods to eat when you have time.","title":"What to Eat On Your Wedding Day + 4 Foods to Avoid","slug":"how-to-eat-on-your-wedding-day","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2CWk80PpGQZoa1WDSz6pnm/1a3dc24ec35ae065ef4c5ef3bd26d2d1/HERO_YelenaTsiomaPhotography_1080x720_Kirsten_Alec.jpg","altText":"couple eating at wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Your wedding guest book can be so much more than paper and binding. Get creative with these 52 unique wedding guest book ideas you and your guests are sure to love. ","title":"52 Unique Wedding Guest Book Ideas You’ll Want to Bookmark","slug":"wedding-guest-book-ideas","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4jNcr2D1ZJMFFIkRTZob9t/ff0337025ed0aabea5181d3af6bff5ff/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Your wedding guest book can be so much more than paper and binding. Get creative with these 52 unique wedding guest book ideas you and your guests are sure to love. "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Make your wedding uniquely yours with meaningful touches that reflect you and your partner. Read on for all the ways to add a personal touch to your reception. ","title":"6 Small Ways to Add Personal Touches to Your Reception","slug":"personal-touches-reception","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3TqBUP5kQExPNCYVi74qTF/9eed7647697701248ceef6f8c30bc9a8/HERO_PhotobyCariadPhotography.jpg","altText":"couple adds personal touches to reception"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Buying alcohol for your reception can save you money—if you do it right. Find out exactly how much beer, wine, and liquor to buy for your celebration with our guide.","title":"How to Buy Alcohol for Your Reception","slug":"how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3SbUkbv2NGxQTE7VuuPd6K/e4852ce43be910ea6827182386fc7d30/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"alcohol for a wedding reception"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Don't let creating your wedding seating chart stress you out. Keep it simple with Zola's rundown of exactly how and where to place all of your wedding guests.","title":"How to Create a Wedding Seating Chart","slug":"how-to-create-a-wedding-seating-chart","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3DV0Ja3L7ldZ0d6HoJtdD9/1e5cb36e0254300214b4ad6130556f5b/Hero_New__1_.jpg","altText":"outdoor wedding seating chart"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:46.233Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"affordable-rehearsal-dinner-ideas","title":"Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas","excerpt":"A rehearsal dinner should be about excitement and anticipation—not the costs. Here are cheap rehearsal dinner ideas from Zola.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-09-29T04:41:26.496Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4xVQpZoBKXEPIyxsp4Il5q/cdf04678e673b19dc6aabcfcbd2cbe3a/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Rehearsal dinners can be as elegant or as laid-back as you want them to be—and an event that allows you to let loose before your wedding day. \n- Keep your rehearsal dinner affordable by holding it at home, a public park, or another low-cost venue. \n- Book buffet-style catering or coordinate a pot-luck dinner in order to reduce food costs. Get creative with decorations by making them yourself or upcycling objects you may already have lying around your home. \n- Pick a theme for your rehearsal dinner that fits your aesthetic and allows you to decorate and cater the event without putting too much of a strain on your budget. ","body":"Bringing people together to celebrate your love doesn’t always bring the same degree of excitement to your wallet as it does to you and your partner. High costs can seem to creep up out of nowhere even for a more intimate occasion like the wedding rehearsal dinner. For a memorable night with family and friends that’s exquisite and easy on the budget, follow along. \n\nIn this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to know from rehearsal dinner basics to creative ideas that will bring radiance and spending relief. Focus more on the wedding-day walk-through and on cherishing small moments—we’ll help you take care of the rest. \n\nHere’s a closer look at what you’ll find below:\n\n- Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know\n- How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly\n- Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas\n- Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos\n- Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner\n\n## Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know \nRehearsal dinners are more than just a walk-through of the ceremony. The post-rehearsal time is an opportunity to sneak extra hugs, conversation, and dancing with your closest friends and family members. \n\nBefore handing out a few tips about how to put on an affordable event, let’s first talk a bit more about what a rehearsal dinner actually is. Who comes? When does it typically happen? Find answers to these questions and more below. \n\n- The what: A rehearsal, of course! You’ll do a general practice of the ceremony from top to bottom to coordinate details such as music, entries, and where to stand. The best part is dinner and drinks afterward with your inner circle of loved ones. \n\n- __The who:__ As wedding tradition goes, the rehearsal dinner is generally reserved for you, your partner, the wedding party, the officiant, and anyone else who may hold a spot on the ceremony program. Some couples may choose to expand the guest list to include a few more family members and friends. Talk this through with your partner to see just how big or how small you’d like to keep things. \n\n- __The where:__ That’s entirely up to you. We’ll give you a few rehearsal dinner venue ideas below, but there are no rules that dictate where exactly you should hold your rehearsal dinner. From seaside soirees to park picnics, the choice is yours.\n\n- __The when:__ Most couples opt to host their rehearsal dinner on the day before their wedding day, as this ensures that all the ceremony dos and don’ts are fresh in everyone’s minds. If you choose to do it sooner, let your wedding guests know so that they can adjust their schedules. \n\n- __The why:__ To go over last-minute details to make sure that there aren’t any hiccups on the day of your wedding. It’s also a time when you and your partner can express thanks to friends and family members for all of the time and effort that they’ve put in to help realize your wedding-day dreams. \n\nNow that you’re familiar with some of the basics, let’s talk about the budget. \n\n## How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly \nIt’s no secret that weddings can often come with a high price tag. Some couples prefer to go all out for their big day and for additional wedding-related events such as the rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunches. \n\nBut if you’re the type of duo who would prefer to keep spending low for the wedding in order to invest more in a lavish honeymoon or a new home, you’re in the right place. Just because you’d rather keep your celebration budget-friendly, doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice elegance and refinement. Cheap rehearsal dinner ideas do not equate to tacky and tawdry. \n\nHere are a few ideas to help you plan an affordable rehearsal dinner that’s both well-organized and well-polished. \n\n- __Do it at home.__ Whether it’s at your residence or a family member’s, having a backyard or patio gathering is a savvy way to avoid the high costs of booking a venue or renting out space at a restaurant. Plus, it allows you to have full control over all the details such as decor, duration of the event, and dinner choices. \n\n- __Find a low-cost venue.__ If you don’t quite have the space to host an event at home, consider another low-cost alternative such as a public beach or park. It gives you just as much freedom to decorate and tailor it to your liking without the pressure of getting your house event-ready. However, it might not be completely free, so be sure to ask about the cost of a permit and how to go about reserving the space for the date you need. \n\n- __Book a space within your price range.__ Not a fan of backyard barbecues or public park gatherings? Use the Zola Vendor Search tool to find a ready-made venue that’s within your budget. Filter through the available spaces by price, setting, and capacity to find one that works with your vision and your wallet. \n\n- __Coordinate a potluck.__ Especially if you opt for an at-home affair, you can join forces with your rockstar wedding crew and eager-to-help family members. Set up a spreadsheet with plenty of time to spare for people to sign up for different dishes. It doesn’t get much more affordable than this and you’ll probably find that people are happy to contribute in any way that they can. \n\n- __Opt for buffet-style catering.__ If you’d rather leave the cooking to the professionals, elect to hire a catering service. Ask about buffet-style dinner options since this will allow you to keep a fixed cost per person instead of opening it up for guests to order individual meals and drinks. \n\n- __Ask about your venue’s event policies.__ If you’ve reserved a date and time for your rehearsal dinner at a hotel or restaurant, ask them to be upfront with you about the total costs. You’ll need to pay the rental fee for the locale, of course, but it would be important to find out if there are any minimum spending requirements for food and drinks.\n\n- __Ask a creative friend for a favor.__ You’ve already booked a photographer for your wedding day but you’d like to get a few snaps of you, your partner, and your crew at the rehearsal dinner too. See if one of your friends who’s got an eye for photography wouldn’t mind documenting a few special moments throughout the night. They might offer to do so free of charge, but consider thanking them for their efforts with a bottle of wine or a gift card to their favorite eatery. \n\n- __Opt for handmade decorations.__ The internet is chock-full of good ideas for DIY decorations. You might be surprised to find that most projects are fairly easy to succeed at too, so you won’t need to be a master crafter to pull it off. From upcycled picture frames and shutters to wood-burned coasters, the sky’s the limit when it comes to handmade, budget-friendly decor. \n\nNow that you’ve packed your brainstorm list to the brim with affordable rehearsal dinner ideas, let’s see how you can pull them all together. Get your creative juices flowing a bit more in the next section where we’ll help you tie your ideas together into a charming and cohesive rehearsal dinner theme. \n\n## Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas \nNot quite sure where to start when it comes to choosing a theme for your rehearsal dinner? Sometimes all you need are a few ideas to help nudge you in the right creative direction. Get some inspiration from the following and feel free to adapt them to fit your own unique vision. \n\n- __Piazza pizza party –__ Look to Venice, Italy for your inspiration for this budget-friendly theme. Decorate your back patio with lights, greenery, and maybe even a small garden fountain to channel the aesthetic of an Italian piazza. For dinner? Pizza, of course! It’s always a crowd favorite and something that’s quick and easy to put together. It feeds a number of people, too, so getting it catered by a local ristorante shouldn’t run up a high bill. Set up a gelato bar for dessert and include a station for guests to add their own toppings. \n\n- __Backyard barbecue –__ If you’d rather opt for a more casual theme, take advantage of backyard space for some grilling and lawn games. The venue is free, of course, and it will give you and your crew a chance to be comfortable and informal before having to dress to the nines on the following day. Coordinate a potluck, if you want, and include some classic homestyle dishes such as macaroni and cheese or potato salad to pair with the barbecue burgers and kebabs. \n\n- __Parisian charcuterie picnic (aka grown-up Lunchables) –__ Save yourself some time with a simple, yet classy charcuterie spread. Take a quick trip to your local bulk store (think Costco or Sam’s Club) to pick up an assortment of deli meats, pre-sliced cheeses, crackers, and bread for a delectable, self-serve rehearsal dinner. You can also purchase plenty of fruit and veggie plates for a balanced meal. \n\nAdd a few checkered tablecloths and some tapered candles in wine bottles, and you’ll have a little taste of Paris the night before your big day. \n\n## Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos\nSince you’ve been planning your wedding, you’re probably no stranger to lists by now. The number of to-dos that pile up for wedding day details can be a bit overwhelming at times. \n\nKeep everything in order and in one place by customizing your task list at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist). Plus, our app is designed to send you notifications whenever a deadline is approaching. The good news? You can use this handy tool for your rehearsal dinner checklist, too. \n\nNot sure where to begin when it comes to prioritizing tasks? Here’s a list of things to get you started down the aisle on the right foot. \n\n- __Set up a budget –__ You might already have a budget set for the wedding day itself, but it’s a good idea to make another one for your rehearsal dinner too. Even though you’re catering to a smaller crowd, costs for food, decorations, and wedding party gifts can add up quickly. Work out with your partner and your families how much you’re willing to spend, and then do your best to adhere to it. \n\n- __Decide who to invite –__ As we mentioned before, this event is typically reserved for your closest family members, your wedding crew, and anyone playing a part in the ceremony itself. Feel free to do things your own way by opening it up to plus-ones or a few extended family members. However, just be mindful of how that might affect the budget before doing so. Another idea is to keep the dinner to just your inner circle, and then open a space up later in the night for more guests to stop by for mingling and a few pre-wedding day cocktails. \n\n \n- __Pick a theme that works with your wedding style –__ Modern and formal? Or, vintage and bohemian? Your rehearsal dinner can be a design extension of your wedding day and an opportunity to weave in a few recurring motifs throughout the entire weekend. Or, you can change things up completely by hosting a dinner with its own unique style and personality. If the wedding day is a black-tie affair, perhaps you’d prefer a casual beachfront barbecue for your rehearsal dinner. Whatever you decide, use the theme as a base from which all other details will extend. \n\n- __Choose and book the venue –__ If budget consciousness is a priority for you, picking a venue can be an opportunity to save big or not. Even for small groups, some [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) may cost a pretty penny just to reserve the space and could even require a minimum tab for food and drinks. An at-home event won’t cost you anything to book the space, of course, but it may require more investment in details such as decorations and floral arrangements. Decide what’s most important to you in an event space and give yourself plenty of time to book in advance. \n\n- __Coordinate catering –__ If you’ve chosen a restaurant or a hotel function hall, you might not even need to give catering much of a second thought. These spaces are well-oiled machines when it comes to hosting events and probably already have menu options and in-house catering services ready to go. If you’ll be celebrating at a park or at home, you and your partner will have to work out these details yourselves. Shop around to find something that satisfies your flavor palette and budget, or consider cooking a few dishes yourself. \n\n- __Send out the invitations –__ Pardon the obvious, but if you’re hosting an event your guests will need to know where to go and what time to be there. Your wedding party is probably already expecting a pre-wedding walk-through as part of their duties, but be sure to clue them in on the details of the dinner and the rehearsal itself so they can add it to their schedule. Consider coordinating [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) to match the theme of your dinner. A few floral accents would be well-suited for a garden party, or you can establish elegance with a gold metallic foil. \n\n- __Create a playlist –__ You don’t necessarily need to book a DJ or a band for your rehearsal dinner (unless you want to, of course) but some background music for mealtime and mingling could be a nice touch. Curate a playlist to your liking for an at-home affair or check with your venue to see if you’re able to provide your own music. If you’ve got a family or friend who is musically inclined, you might consider asking them to play a few songs for a laid-back dinner—complete with sing-alongs and dancing. \n\n- __Include a few fun activities –__ You and your guests are there to take care of the logistics before the big day, but don’t forget to have fun, too. Beyond dinner and drinks, consider adding a few games and activities to let loose the night before your ceremony. Lawn games and Jenga are always a hit. Or, you can encourage people to get creative by setting up a DIY table for crafting or scrapbooking. \n\n- __Say thank you and enjoy the company –__ This will likely be your last event with family and friends as an unmarried couple. Soak in those moments with the people who have come from near and far to rally behind your love story before the wild ride of married life takes off. Consider taking this opportunity to send out a thank you to them too. A handwritten note is a simple, heartfelt gesture; or, shop for a few small gifts that your wedding party will be able to have as a keepsake for years to come. \n\nWhen it comes to weddings our well never runs dry. Stay tuned for more rehearsal dinner hacks in the section below. \n\n## Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner \nFeeling just about ready to dive into the planning part of your rehearsal dinner? Before you go, let’s send you off with a few more tips and tricks to ensure a smooth and stylish soiree. Add this advice to your checklist for you to come back to whenever you need a reminder. \n\n- __Don’t forget to keep an eye on mother nature.__ Some weather is unpredictable, but keep tabs on the forecast in the days leading up to your rehearsal dinner in case you need to make any last-minute adjustments. \n\n- __Incorporate a taste of the town.__ Whether you’re celebrating in your backyard or in an upscale restaurant, pay attention to what makes this part of the world different from others. Include some local flavors made famous in that region or any seasonal treats that are hard to find elsewhere. \n\n- __Let your wedding guests know the best way to dress.__ Being clear about attire is important, especially for your rehearsal dinner. If you have any activities planned that require a change of clothes, give the invitees a heads-up so that they can pack accordingly. Additionally, if you’ve opted for a laid-back get-together, tell your friends and family that it’s okay to keep it casual. \n\n- __If you’re hosting at home, be sure to give your attendees clear instructions about how to arrive.__ Particularly if your home or the event space is located in a remote area where cell service is sparse, be in touch with them ahead of time in order to avoid losing a friend down a country back road. \n\n## Design Your Dream Rehearsal Dinner at Zola \nThe rehearsal dinner may just seem like one more thing you have to plan on top of your wedding day, but given the right tools and tricks, it can actually be quite easy and fun. Especially, when you let [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) help you take care of the essentials. \n\nHere at the hub of all things wedding related we believe in:\n\nHelping you celebrate your love through every step of the [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) process.\n\nSharing the news of your wedding day and the details of your love story on your very own, easy-to-customize [free wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website).\n\nConnecting you with the right florists, photographers, and other [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to bring each piece of the planning puzzle together into one picture-perfect event.\n\nYour rehearsal dinner is already starting to take shape. Keep molding the magic right here at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/).","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:45.440Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"how-couples-are-integrating-culture-into-their-weddings-in-2022","title":"42 Unique Wedding Traditions Around the World","excerpt":"More and more, couples are opting to include specific cultural traditions on their wedding day. Here’s a look at some wedding customs couples are incorporating into their bid day.","author":"Deanna deBara","publishedAt":"2022-01-10T03:49:36.343Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XvdQEoaME2EknFjgKAMiJ/881b800815a32b750584758504ca2231/06.jpeg","altText":"Integrating Culture into Their Weddings in 2022"},"heroCredit":"Jannette De Llanos Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Some couples are divided about integrating traditional American wedding customs into their weddings, while other couples are doing away with traditions such as the garter toss, bouquet toss, and cake smashing. \n- More and more couples are including specific, cultural traditions in their weddings by personalizing them. \n- Wedding customs cross cultural lines and can be integrated into your wedding day in whichever way you and your significant other want. \n","body":"Your wedding is a day to celebrate and honor the union between you and your partner—and that includes honoring your heritage. \n\nMore and more, couples are opting to include specific cultural [traditions on their wedding day](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-traditions-that-couples-are-having-at-their-weddings); according to __[Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022)__, 43% of couples say that they are including at least one or a few meaningful cultural traditions in their list of wedding ideas. Here’s a look at how couples are integrating culture into their 2022 weddings. \n\n## __American Wedding Customs__ \nIn America, not every couple is attached to including American traditions into their big day; 41% are indifferent about [American wedding customs](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-southern-wedding-traditions), while 15% think they’re outdated. And, as such, many couples are opting out of a traditional wedding and selecting just one or two of their favorite traditions to highlight in their wedding celebration. \n\nSo, what traditional customs are they keeping and tossing out? Check out the percentages of couples that voted:\n\n### __What's In:__\n- __First Dance:__ 94.39%\n- __Being Walked Down the Aisle:__ 87.37%\n- __Wearing a Veil:__ 70.94%\n- __Cake Cutting:__ 75.26%\n\n### __What's Out:__\n- __Garter Toss:__ 20.33%\n- __Bouquet Toss:__ 41.69%\n- __Cake Smashing:__ 6.64%\n- __Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue:__ 62.24%\n\nThe tradition of not seeing each other before the wedding (and instead, getting ready with the bridesmaids and/or wedding party) has couples divided. Fifty three percent are going to have a first look before the ceremony (and snap some wedding photos!), and 47% aren’t planning to see each other until they meet at the altar. \n\n## __Cultures and Traditions__ \nSeventy percent of couples don’t feel pressure to incorporate any specific tradition; instead, they’re incorporating those traditions because honoring their heritage is important to them.\n\nHere’s a closer look at some cultures and traditions that could be integrated into weddings. \n \n\n### __Mexican Wedding Traditions__\n\n- __1. El Laso:__ This is a traditional unity ceremony using a lasso to join the couple after the exchange of wedding vows that is performed across generations. Members of the couple’s families will wrap that lasso around them in a figure eight to symbolize the unity between them. \n- __2. Mariachi Band:__ Mariachis are hired to sing hymns and religious songs both during the ceremony. Couples may opt for this dynamic performance to add a festive flair to the celebration.\n- __3. Dollar Dance:__ This tradition, where guests offer the newlyweds money to dance with them or they shower the couple with money, spans across many cultures and is often called the money dance. \n\n### __Venezuelan Wedding Traditions__ \n\n- 4. __La Hora Loca__: Hora Loca is Spanish for “__[the crazy hour](https://www.weddingdetails.com/wedding-traditions/venezuela/)__” so it’s a party within a party. Couples may include this tradition during the wedding reception, once the party starts to wind down for the evening, to keep the party going. The lights dim, then a burst of color, noise-makers, confetti, lights, and performers get the party started all over again. It’s used to get people to mingle and let their hair down.\n\n- 5. __Venezuelan Tambores__: Tambor is a coastal Afro-Venezuelan music and dance. This can be incorporated into the reception with a drumming ceremony and performers.\n\n#### __ More on LatinX and Hispanic Wedding Traditions__ \nWhile there are some shared commonalities in traditions, rituals vary depending on the couple’s country (or countries) of origin, so not all Latin American or Hispanic weddings are the same.\n\n### __Jewish Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 6. __Breaking the Glass:__ Breaking the glass, which happens after the pronouncement and the kiss, is supposed to recall the destruction of the temples. It’s a way of remembering the tragedy of Jerusalem even during the happiest moment of a couple’s life: the wedding. \n- 7. __Chuppah:__ A [chuppah](https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/chuppah/) is a canopy on poles that represents the couple’s new home and marriage. You can have wedding guests sign it, then attach it to the poles, so it symbolically has the blessings of loved ones hanging over the couple.\n- 8. __Hora Dance:__ The hora is a traditional dance performed at Jewish weddings where the newlyweds are lifted in the air in chairs at the reception, while their family and friends dance in circles around them. During the dance, the couple holds one end of a napkin to signify their union. \n- 9. __7 Circles:__ During this custom, the bride will circle around the groom three to seven times under the chuppah. Tradition says that it’s to create a magical wall of protection from evil spirits, bad luck, temptation, and wandering eyes. \n\n### __Indian Wedding Traditions__\n\nIndian weddings usually last an average of three days. \n\n- 10. __Hindu Ceremony:__ The [Hindu wedding ceremony takes](https://www.brides.com/hindu-wedding-ceremony-rituals-traditions-4795869) place on the third day, and it usually lasts between one-and-a-half to two hours. It is then followed by the reception, so the whole celebration clocks in at around 16 hours.\n- 11. __Baraat:__ The Baraat is meant to bring the groom to the wedding ceremony on a ceremonial horse, in a vintage car, or on a chariot as guests lead the way. It is a custom that originated in North India, but has been adopted by many other Indian communities. \n- 12. __Mehndi:__ This tradition, which is a nostalgic sit-down for the bride and her close circle filled with laughter, fun, music, dances, and games, is held before the actual wedding. During this tradition, they receive mehndi stains over their hands and feet. It’s a chance to use natural herbal medicine to cool the body and relieve the bride of any stress ahead of the big day. \n- 13. __Choora Ceremony:__ The choora ceremony is held on the morning of the wedding, or the day before. The bride's maternal uncle and aunt give her a set of chooriyan, also known as bangles. Now brides can decide how long to keep them on, ranging from a week to an entire year. \n\n### __German Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 14. __German Chair Dance:__ Tradition has it that at the wedding reception, the bride and groom are placed in a chair before the clock strikes midnight. A German song is performed while the chairs are lifted to bless the marriage. \n- 15. __German Abduction of the Bride:__ Don’t worry, it’s totally safe. The groom’s best man [takes the bride on a pub crawl](https://www.hamburg.com/residents/getting-married/11873636/customs/), while leaving hints for the groom to find them. The bride and the kidnapper can drink up until the groom shows up to free the bride by paying the bill.\n\n### __Irish Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 16. __Irish Ring Warming:__ A ring warming ceremony is a tradition that involves passing around the wedding bands to guests to warm up with prayers and wishes for good luck. It’s a way for couples to include everyone in their wedding ceremony. \n- 17. __Irish Knot Tying:__ This is an ancient Celtic tradition that dates back 2,000 years to determine if a couple is compatible. Today, the officiant places a ribbon around the couple’s hands while saying vows of promise and commitment. \n\n### __Polish Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 18. __Salt and Bread:__ The sharing of the bread and salt is an old __[Polish tradition](http://www.polishamericancenter.org/Wedding.htm)__. At the wedding reception, the bride and groom are met by both sets of parents. With the bread, the parents are hoping that their children will never hunger or be in need. With the salt, they are reminding the couple that they must learn to cope with life's struggles.\n- 19. __Polish Apron Dance:__ During the reception, all of the guests line up to dance with the bride and then offer money to the newlywed couple, as the Pani Mloda Polka song is playing. The contributions are collected into a special apron held by the bride's father.\n\n### __Scottish Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 20. __Formal Wearing of Scottish Kilts:__ A kilt is treated with distinction and is generally only worn at formal affairs like weddings. The groom and groomsmen may wear this to infuse Scottish heritage into the wedding. \n- 21. __The Quaich Ceremony:__ A Quaich ceremony is a Scottish traditional two-handled cup. The Quaich is often referred to as the love cup, as the couple takes a handle to take a drink, showing that they trust one another to share the cup. Couples often opt to use the Quaich at the reception for their first toast together.\n- 22. __Tying of the Tartans:__ Tartans are a patterned cloth consisting of criss-crossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors that are a staple in Scottish culture. Couples incorporate the tying of the tartans by tying their hands in the family tartan to symbolize tying the knot. \n\n### __Italian Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 23. __Italian Cuisine:__ Italy is known for its delicious cheeses and cured meats, and there are so many ways that couples incorporate that into the wedding menu. [Italian weddings](https://yummiestfood.com/what-food-is-served-at-an-italian-wedding/) tend to focus on lamb, beef, guinea fowl, fish, and beef. For dessert, couples usually include Italian cookies, tiramisu, Italian [wedding cake](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-cake-traditions-and-their-significance), or gelato. \n- 24. __Tarantella Dance:__ This popular Italian dance is performed by all guests linking their arms or holding hands in a circle, to dance around the newlyweds in happy celebration. The name comes from the Italian tarantola, which means 'tarantula.' Wedding receptions might also include one or two Pavorotti hits to honor the occasion. \n- 25. __Jordan Almonds:__ These sugar-coated candies make an appearance at both Italian and Greek weddings. At traditional [Italian weddings](https://www.theknot.com/content/all-about-jordan-almonds), five almonds signify five wishes for the couple: health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. Couples use the almonds as party favors in cute boxes or tulle bags. \n\n### __Chinese Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 26. __Traditional Attire (Qun Kwa and Qi Pao):__ A Qun Kwa is a two-piece traditional Chinese wedding gown that is embellished with patterns and motifs such as dragons, phoenixes, peonies, and more. Qi Pao is a classic garment traditionally made from embroidered silk, featuring a high collar and delicate cloth buttons on the front. Brides may choose to wear one of these for their wedding ceremony. \n- 27. __Chinese Tea Ceremony:__ The [Chinese tea ceremony](https://www.brides.com/chinese-tea-ceremony-5078037#:~:text=The%20Chinese%20tea%20ceremony%20is,the%20couple's%20respective%20family%20homes.) is held on the day of the wedding, and it is when the bride and groom serve tea to their parents, in-laws, and other family members. It symbolizes the union of two families. \n\n### __Vietnamese Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 28. __Vietnamese Tea Ceremony and Candle Ritual:__ The purpose of a Vietnamese wedding tea ceremony is for the groom to ask the bride's family for her hand in marriage, and it also celebrates the union of the two families, while honoring the parents, family, and ancestors by lighting two candles.\n- 29. __Vietnamese Attire (áo dài):__ It’s the traditional attire that is long with slits on the side and can be worn by men and women. It has become the standard for both the bride and the groom to wear on their wedding day.\n\n### __Japanese Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 30. __1,000 Paper Cranes:__ In Japan, the crane is highly esteemed. An ancient Japanese myth says that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish by a crane. The 1,000 paper cranes are given as a wedding gift by the father, who wishes a thousand years of happiness, prosperity, and good fortune for the married couple.\n- 31. __Bon Odori Dancing:__ This is a traditional dance to celebrate the dead ancestors, and couples may integrate this custom into their wedding reception.\n\n### __Korean Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 32. __Korean Cuisine:__ The required [traditional food](https://www.villagecatering.com/4-interesting-korean-wedding-traditions/#:~:text=Though%20most%20Americans%20expect%20extravagant,sticky%20rice%20cakes%20for%20dessert.) for Korean weddings is noodle soup. Some couples might serve a kook soo sang (noodle banquet) with only noodle soup and sticky rice cakes for dessert.\n- 33. __Korean Dress (Hanbok):__ A bride (and perhaps the groom) will wear this [traditional formal clothing](https://www.brides.com/traditional-korean-wedding-5087200) made of silk. Couples often opt to wear this for part of the ceremony, and then wear a wedding dress and suit for the rest. \n\n### __Filipino Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 34. __Cord and Veil Ceremony:__ Godparents drape a ceremonial lace veil over the bride and groom to symbolize being clothed as one. A ceremonial cord (yugal) is wrapped around them in a figure eight to symbolize an eternal bond of fidelity. Often, couples that are having a Catholic ceremony include this. \n- 35. __Traditional Dress:__ Men often wear a [barong](https://vintagallery.com/blogs/news/the-rich-and-interesting-history-of-the-barong-tagalog), which is a sheer, long-sleeved formal shirt over slacks. Women will wear a [mantilla wedding veil](https://vintagallery.com/collections/filipiniana-wedding-collection/products/vanda-javierae-mantilla), which is traditionally worn on top of the head—two inches from the hairline—to allow the lace edge to drape alongside her face and down to her shoulders. \n\n### __African American Wedding Traditions__\t\n\n- 36. __Jumping the Broom:__ [Jumping the broom](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/traditional-wedding-decor-ideas) has Ghanan roots, but it’s a traditional act performed at black weddings. After the vows are exchanged, the couple holds hands and jumps over the broom to seal the union. Couples add this to the ceremony to bless their marriage. \n- 37. __Tasting the Four Elements:__ This tradition is [adapted from the Yorùbá people](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/great-ways-to-incorporate-tasting-the-four-elements-in-your-wedding). During the ceremony, the newlyweds take tastes of four flavors intended to represent the stages of marriage, such as vows like “better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.” These flavors are represented by cayenne for heat, lemon for sourness, vinegar for bitterness, and honey for sweetness. It’s a symbolic way that couples use to showcase their bond. \n\n### __Celtic Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 38. __Knot/Handfasting:__ The term “the knot” originates from handfasting ceremonies, and it’s when the officiant ties knots around the couple’s hands, wrists, and arms as a way for the couple to create a contract with each other. There are so many ways to do this, so couples can use their personal preference to show their unity. \n- 39. __Poem for the Couple:__ Celtic sayings and blessings that early Irish immigrants brought to America centuries ago can still be heard today in the form of short poems. Couples incorporate this as unique wedding ceremony readings, vows, or even for the toasts at the reception. \n\n### __Greek Wedding Traditions__\n\n- 40. __Greek Cuisine:__ Couples often serve certain dishes from Greece at their wedding reception such as lamb or beef stew with orzo, a cheese pastry called tiropita, and a sweet pastry called baklava. Jordan almonds are also included to symbolize the endurance of the newly married couple’s marriage and the promise of a sweet life together.\n- 41. __Koumbara:__ The Greek Orthodox Church requires the couple to appoint Orthodox Christian wedding sponsors to be their guides and go-to’s throughout their marriage. The Koumbaro is the male sponsor and the best man, while the female is the Koumbara and is the maid (or matron) of honor. \n- 42. __Greek Dances:__ Couples may decide to use one or two Greek dances. The Dance of Isaiah is led by the priest in a ceremonial walk as the Koumbaro holds a ribbon behind the couple that joins their crowns, to celebrate their first steps as husband and wife. The Greek dollar dance is a playful dance for the reception, where the newlyweds are rewarded by guests throwing dollar bills onto the dance floor or pinning them onto the couple’s attire as a way to show congratulations. ","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Everything you need to know about dressing for a Jewish wedding you’ve been invited to.","title":"What To Wear To A Jewish Wedding","slug":"what-to-wear-to-a-jewish-wedding","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/42pAuYGRkLaqufGXxeOfOo/de0b404bad832865ba0b1426cd3554ed/Hero_ElegantlyFormalJewishWedding_AdelineandGracePhotography.jpg","altText":"What To Wear To A Jewish Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Have you been invited to a Nigerian wedding? Find out what to expect with this comprehensive guide. ","title":"What to Expect at a Nigerian Wedding","slug":"what-to-expect-at-a-nigerian-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6oDRA8nNKk5tg1Tr1pNO9a/34ca5063f3b9071bec13443a39fcda7b/Hero_ColorfulSpringWeddingWithNigerianInspiration_WillKernerPhotography.jpg","altText":"Nigerian Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Even when your celebration is somewhere as breathtaking as Greece, wedding planning can be stressful. For that reason, we’ve put together a step-by-step overview of how to plan and what not to miss.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding in Greece","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding-in-greece","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6hPUjc1BtDQQHAcOf9wgSE/ddeae032c8dc93c17b9a76f0f4e94912/Hero_Zola__16_.jpg","altText":"How to Plan a Wedding in Greece"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:44.586Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"garter-toss-alternatives","title":"Garter Toss Alternatives","excerpt":"Here are some ideas to consider for alternatives to the garter toss.","author":"Lisa Wong Macabasco","publishedAt":"2021-02-25T19:53:56.956Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7bYpciTzRjg3sIkbliZu3g/43080995f1e5ee66bdb4623672d86d99/Hero_Zola__75_.jpg","altText":"Garter Toss Alternatives"},"heroCredit":"Manuel Montenegro Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- Instead of a garter, throw out any other special,easly throwable memento, such as the groom’s boutonniere.\n- Hide a garter (or other prize) in a balloon drop, toss something for the kids only, or throw candy to guests instead.\n- Skip all the tosses altogether! It’s not mandatory to have any tosses, and it’s unlikely anyone will miss them. ","body":"The garter toss, where a groom removes a bride’s garter and throws it to a clamoring pack of single male guests, is a time-honored wedding tradition. But some today may not feel completely comfortable with the custom, and it’s no surprise given its medieval, somewhat uncivil roots. Never fear, we’ve rounded up some ways to make the practice feel fresh and fun for all. Here are some ideas to consider for garter toss alternatives.\n\n## Ditch the Removal and Go Straight to the Toss \nThe part of the garter toss that makes some squirm is likely the performance of the groom taking it off of the bride—some just don’t feel comfortable with that level of suggestion and intimacy (even if simulated) in front of their family and friends. Leave all that for the honeymoon, and instead go directly to the groom throwing out a garter you have on hand. The bride doesn’t even need to have ever worn it. Or, you can substitute the garter for any other easily throwable memento that you’ve bought especially for the occasion (a soft football or other light ball, or a [bouquet](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-included-in-a-wedding-flower-package) of dollar bills or lottery ticket, for example)—all without the bride having to show even an ankle. Alternately, the groom can throw his boutonniere out to the single male guests, in a move similar to the bouquet toss.\n\n![Garter Toss Alternatives](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4yMqxiZOGFsLsNgHFYrOUH/c9d5b5ef6e5c61f98701452a33f27341/inline_shutterstock.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Shutterstock\n\n## Make It a Coed Bouquet Toss\nSkip the garter removal entirely, but keep the fun of watching your friends duke it out. Ask the single folks of all genders to gather when it’s time to throw the bouquet. The groom can even get in on the fun and help with the toss. \n\n## Hide a Prize in a Balloon \nPut a garter or another prize in a balloon. Drop it along with a bunch of other balloons on the dance floor, and have [wedding guests](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/wedding-guests) (single ones or anyone who wants to participate) pop them to find the prize. Make it harder by putting something in each balloon.\n\n## Award the Bouquet As a Prize\nLeave out the tossing entirely, and use the time and opportunity to salute someone meaningful by giving them the bridal bouquet: for example, an older relative or someone who was especially helpful during the wedding planning. Or, present the bride’s bouquet to the couple in attendance who has been married the longest: Gather up all the married couples for a special dance, and then have them exit the dance floor based on how long they’ve been married. Start with less than a day (meaning you), then a year, five, 10, and so on until there’s only one couple left. They can receive the bridal bouquet and start off the next dance. \n\n![Garter Toss Alternatives](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/79omI0niPo0nB2V67vInCV/a29d61cecea85660bec15b9232419cbd/inline_manuel_montenegro_photographyjpg.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Shutterstock\n\n## Toss Something to the Kids\nLet the youngest guests join in on the fun. Toss a stuffed toy, perhaps with a $20 bill attached. It’ll be a kick for the kids and the adults watching the melee. \n\n## Have a Candy Toss\nFill a bowl, vase, or basket with candy, and throw it out to anyone who wants to participate. This fun alternative is a way for everyone to walk away with part of the prize.\n\n## Skip All the Tosses \nDon’t feel pressure to include a toss of any kind at your [reception](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/decor-inspiration/reception). Weddings should be a reflection of you as a couple, and that means that you’re welcome to pick and choose which wedding tradition you want to participate in on your big day. Guests are unlikely to miss any custom you skip, and many attendees would rather not be spotlighted for being single, anyway. Display the bouquet in a nice vase on the cake table or the couple’s table, and leave undisturbed all the fun people are having. And, by all means, wear a garter if you like—how and when it’s removed is totally up to you.\n\nRemember, weddings are full of traditions that ebb and flow over time. Some are in full effect (placing wedding rings on the fourth finger of the left hand), others are fading (brides wearing white gowns), and some, such as the garter toss, just aren’t as popular as they once were. But many couples today are throwing out the rule book when it comes to wedding customs—or putting their own twist on them—to make their wedding ceremony it as personalized as possible. Keep in mind that it’s your wedding, and you and your partner should feel free to tailor your special day as you wish. ","tag":"List","nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Wondering what the garter toss at weddings means? Learn about the symbolism with this complete guide. ","title":"Symbolism of the Garter Toss","slug":"symbolism-of-the-garter-toss","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3JWWXyNKNQ6kROpHz37zHP/010427ef9a4ea41755fb9ed79da1c98b/Hero_Zola__73_.jpg","altText":"what is a garter toss"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The garter toss is one of the oldest wedding traditions, but there’s no reason why you can’t put a fresh spin on it today. Here are some unique garter toss ideas to consider.","title":"Unique Garter Toss Ideas","slug":"unique-garter-toss-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5vCldlkSaqVmUnCUor9TGH/524f12b970400351100b26be90898278/Hero_Zola__77_.jpg","altText":"Unique Garter Toss Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn more about the origins and history of the bridal garter toss and the meaning behind the tradition.","title":"What Is the History of the Garter Toss?","slug":"what-is-the-history-of-the-garter-toss","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7Br5EtoXs1G4dzdv8VrQLN/2bff9f001e9e129870aca180ac525250/Hero_Zola__76_.jpg","altText":"What Is the History of the Garter Toss"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover the best trends in wedding favors for 2024. Explore unique, thoughtful and personalizable gifts to say thank you to your guests.\n","title":"57 Best Wedding Favor Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"wedding-favor-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4htHvgMQ2kudreHw1fqB8n/d78a19bfafdcf0518d029991930d3aa8/close-up-of-wedding-party-favors.jpg","altText":"Wedding favor gift boxes laid out on a white table."},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:43.415Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"how-to-package-wedding-favors-a-complete-guide","title":"How to Package Wedding Favors: A Complete Guide","excerpt":"Once you’ve decided on what wedding favors you want to give guests, you need to figure out the best way to package them. Here’s a complete guide on how to package wedding favors. ","author":"Laura Hensley","publishedAt":"2021-02-18T15:59:01.924Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2DrspxRRsim3B98Zey57dy/62493798ce8418f86e11e1e9350f2b48/Hero_Zola__53_.jpg","altText":"How to Package Wedding Favors"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- From plastic bags to paper envelopes and vinyl boxes, there’s endless ways to package wedding favors without breaking the bank. \n- For edible goods such as mints and candies, glass containers are a great way for guests to keep the gift long after eating the treats. \n- Packaging is important because it helps keep items from breaking and it also lets guests know you value their presence at your wedding.","body":"Wedding favors are, little gifts that guests take home with them as a thank-you for attending your special day. They are often personalized by the couple and tend to reflect the [wedding’s theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-themes). \n\nOnce you’ve decided on what wedding favors you want to give, you then need to figure out the best way to package them. If your wedding favor is [something edible](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/edible-wedding-favors) and easily squashed, such as a fresh macaroon, a package that protects it—especially in transit—is important. There’s more elaborate ways and more cost-effective ways to present the gifts. It’s important that you factor packaging into the overall cost of wedding favors, as you want to make sure that you don’t go over your [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget). Certain types of packaging work best for different types of favors.\n\nHere’s a complete guide on how to package wedding favors.\n\n### Plastic Bags \n\n![How to Package Wedding Favors: A Complete Guide](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4kxBHFpNMWzE0g5UJuSbKw/0fbfbe87208ab2d15bbaef40cd1c7f65/inline_Airenmillerphotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Airenmiller Photography\n\nWhen we talk about plastic bags, we aren’t referring to the grocery store variety. There’s plenty of options and styles for plastic wedding favor bags that are affordable, including ones with seals, and ones that you can tie closed with a piece of ribbon or string. Some options, like on Etsy, come with a [personalized wedding sticker](https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/814285559/personalised-name-sticker-clear-confetti?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=clear+favor+bags&ref=sc_gallery-1-6&plkey=0a1c273a103e1d7dc132e53e25adb747fa8f558d%3A814285559) so that you can have a message of your choice on each favor bag. You can put anything from potpourri, dried lavender, popcorn, [gourmet cookies](https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/767361250/100-pcs-wedding-favor-bags-clear-candy?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=clear+favor+bags&ref=sr_gallery-1-6), nuts and dried fruit, or an assortment of [mini chocolates](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/justcandy_botanical_hershey_miniatures_100) and candies in the bags. You can even package little candles or tealights in plastic wrap, neatly tie it shut with colorful satin ribbon, and attach a small thank-you note. \n\n### Paper Bags \n\n[Candy stations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/11-unique-dessert-ideas-for-a-wedding) are popular options for couples who want wedding guests to help themselves to their favorite treats. If you’re hoping that guests grab a curated candy bag as a wedding favor on their way out of your reception, [cute paper bags](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/foryourparty_all_you_need_is_love_party_bag_set50) created specifically for [weddings](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/foryourparty_best_day_ever_party_bag_set50) are easy and affordable options. Foil-printed phrases such as “[I do, me too](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/foryourparty_i_do_me_too_party_bag_set50)” and “[just married](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/foryourparty_bold_brush_just_married_party_bag_set50)” on the paper, goodie bags make this option practical and fun. There’s also [kraft paper options](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/gingerray_rustic_country_20pack_treat_bags) available that are ideal for rustic or [barn wedding celebrations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you). \n\n### Plastic or Vinyl Containers \n\nIf your wedding favors are anything that need to be sealed for longer-term freshness, plastic or vinyl containers are the way to go—think: mints, candies and gum. You can buy these treats in bulk and then buy the containers to package yourself, or you can get the [whole favor packaged and ready to go](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/justcandy_hearts_in_sand_just_candy_favor_cube_with_prosecco_cordials_12). If you want to decorate the containers, consider buying customized stickers to label each one with messages such as “just married” or your wedding date. \n\n### Sachets and Drawstring Bags \n\n[Organza sachets](https://www.etsy.com/market/wedding_favor_sachet) and drawstring bags made out of muslin, silk, cotton, or burlap are reusable, come in different sizes and colors, and are affordable. In other words, they make fantastic packages for wedding favors. They are suitable for small gifts such as dried lavender, little soaps, loose-leaf teas, or mints. Depending on your wedding theme and aesthetic, you can go with a favor bag design that best reflects your personality as a couple. \n\n### Paper Envelopes \n\nPlant or flower seeds are fantastic and affordable wedding favors. Not only are they cost-effective, but they allow guests to plant—and watch grow—something in their gardens after your wedding day. Seeds are best packaged in small paper envelopes, which can be decorated and personalized with stickers or stamps. \n\n### Glass Containers \n\n![How to Package Wedding Favors: A Complete Guide](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5bI1FehCbzjrKGyqXgZbtP/d67c27b715ddd848a81df75c67580f0f/inline_EmmaMcdonaldWeddings.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // EmmaMcdonald Weddings\n\nIf you’re giving guests a goodie that’s edible, but you also want them to have something to hold onto forever, individual [wedding candy jars](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/zolabridal_love_is_sweet_wedding_candy_jars) are ideal. You can pre-fill every small jar with treats such as mints, candies, or even [chocolates](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/justcandy_floral_hersheys_kisses_100) and place them either with guests’ place settings or on a table for them to grab on the way out. The beauty of a glass jar is that they are reusable and can hold everyday items such as cotton balls, pocket change, buttons, or even spices in the kitchen. \n\nSome wedding favors already come packaged in glass containers, such as these [adorable champagne bottles](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/justcandy_bold_love_champagne_bottle_with_sixlets_blue) filled with jelly beans. If your wedding favor is honey, sauce, maple syrup, or jam, glass jars are the best option. \n\n### Paper Boxes\n\nPaper boxes like the ones you get at bakeries are ideal for edible wedding favors that you don’t want to get squashed or damaged in transit. Treats such as cupcakes, cookies, or macaroons are easy to gift in low-cost boxes. There’s various prints and styles of party favor boxes available, so don’t be afraid to do some shopping to find a design that best pairs with your wedding aesthetic. [Paper boxes](https://www.papermart.com/p/natural-kraft-tuck-top-gift-boxes/5480#5480) are also handy if you want guests to take home any [wedding dessert table snacks](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas) for later.\n\n### Mason Jars \n\nIf you’re having a rustic or barn wedding, chances are that you’ll be incorporating mason jars. The glass jars are ideal for wedding favors such as succulents, hard candies, granola, jams or even [craft cocktail sets](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/mason-jar-cocktail-kits). Mason jars are incredibly handy to have around the house and will be something that guests will actually reuse, which is important if you’re thinking about having a more [eco-friendly and sustainable wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/eco-friendly-wedding). \n\nYour wedding favor packaging should be suitable for your wedding favor. If you’re giving out cupcakes, for example, you don’t want to hand them out in paper bags. Be sure that you account for the cost of wedding favor packaging in your budget, so that you don’t get hit with a charge that you weren’t prepared for. Get creative, have fun, and pick a package that reflects your overall wedding theme. \n","tag":"How To","nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Discover the best trends in wedding favors for 2024. Explore unique, thoughtful and personalizable gifts to say thank you to your guests.\n","title":"57 Best Wedding Favor Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"wedding-favor-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4htHvgMQ2kudreHw1fqB8n/d78a19bfafdcf0518d029991930d3aa8/close-up-of-wedding-party-favors.jpg","altText":"Wedding favor gift boxes laid out on a white table."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"How to determine whether you need to give wedding favors to every guest at your wedding.","title":"Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest?","slug":"do-you-give-wedding-favors-to-each-guest","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1Ku5W4ofaXyHnGAp3DcXP7/ef3ae745d5de3fc2957cdb38b1292552/Hero_NaturalOutdoorWeddingatMerryHill_AandAWeddings.jpg","altText":"Do You Give Wedding Favors to Each Guest"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Having boozy wedding favors ensures that your thank you gifts will be a hit. ","title":"8 Boozy Wedding Favors to Lift Everyone's Spirits","slug":"8-boozy-wedding-favors-to-lift-everyones-spirits","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5SIBRp337uUJ5IMyVKu0JK/cf114b3664ff279e55fd27900de2e0e2/Hero_RomanticBlackTieWeddingatTerminus330_SageAndCedarPhotography.jpg","altText":"Boozy Wedding Favors"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Attending a wedding this summer? Here’s everything you need to know about guests, weddings, and vaccines.","title":"Guests, Weddings, and Vaccines: What You Need to Know","slug":"guests-weddings-and-vaccines-what-you-need-to-know","topic":"Zola behind the scenes","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ReUuubL41mTVam3Mcwdep/6a81d8e3da664a815c3a1afe920e6487/Hero_Zola__15_.jpg","altText":"Guests, Weddings, and Vaccines: What You Need to Know"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:42.282Z"}],"pagination":{"currentPage":8,"total":108},"subtopic":{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"wedding-ceremony-script","title":"8 Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Borrow & Printables","excerpt":"Find beautiful wedding ceremony scripts ranging from unique to traditional. Print and borrow them, or get inspiration to write your own!","author":"Allison Cullman","publishedAt":"2024-04-23T08:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2189XuQqFs1q0sSz2l1T1H/3f8c146df0bc33f66c636d2d6b4a8ea8/wedding-ceremony-happy-women-flowers.jpg","altText":"wedding-ceremony-happy-women-flowers"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","tldr":"__Inside this article:__\n- Simple wedding ceremony script\n- Modern wedding ceremony script\n- Humorous wedding ceremony script\n- Inclusive wedding ceremony script\n- Christian wedding ceremony script\n- Catholic wedding ceremony script\n- Jewish wedding ceremony script\n- Protestant wedding ceremony script\n- 4 Tips for writing your own ceremony script\n- Simple wedding ceremony script starter outline\n- FAQs about wedding ceremony scripts\n- Summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts\n","body":"In the midst of the organized chaos of wedding planning, the [wedding ceremony](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-ceremony-programs) is often left until the last minute. But the ceremony is quite significant—after all, it’s the part where you and your future spouse actually become joined in marriage.\n\nWe all know about the “I do’s” of a wedding ceremony, but the rest of your ceremony is just as important. While you want to create a [wedding ceremony](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-the-wedding-ceremony-order-of-events) script that’s meaningful and personal to you and your future spouse, figuring out how to do this can leave some couples scratching their heads. If you’re wondering where to begin writing your wedding ceremony script, our tips and examples below are here to help.\n\n![WEDDING GUESTS AT CEREMONY](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/n30m9L0eLt6IMfIFuXh8i/03120fde2eaab83389318bf88d2445ac/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-8815265.jpg)\n\n## Simple wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, an ordained minister at [Universal Life Church](https://www.ulc.org/).*\n\nFor a nonreligious wedding ceremony, there’s no standard script you need to adhere to. The script below can be a helpful starting point for a simple wedding ceremony you can build upon and personalize however you like.\n\n[![simple-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1LmmX8snQHqtavcPfdOMu2/a9ee02a4eae75c8ddfb6975c1e26b0f4/simple-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/46KpUkc8FtLwlICThYXJ9I/af9390ec0e2bff2c6da8b2e8e6777943/simple_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### __Opening words/welcome__\n\nThe ceremony will begin with the officiant addressing the reception.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones. We’re gathered here today to celebrate [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in their lifelong commitment of love to each other. Finding your life partner is a true joy, and the commitment to share in life’s ups and downs as one is no small feat. While marriage will bring its own challenges and triumphs, let this day be a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, as well as the possibilities for your partnership as you grow together for years to come.”\n\n### Reading\n\nWhile a simple wedding ceremony might omit this part altogether, some couples like to personalize their ceremony wedding scripts with a chosen reading or song to celebrate their union. A close friend or family member, the officiant, or the couple themselves might perform readings. For example, the officiant might call upon a chosen friend or family member to perform an original poem or share a story about the couple’s relationship.\n\n__Officiant:__ “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B] has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to recite an original poem in honor of their union.”\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows and ring exchange\n\nCouples may choose to write their own vows or omit reciting vows altogether.\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and lifelong commitment.”\n\nAt this point, couples may exchange their vows (if desired) before placing their rings on each other's fingers. Below is an example of vows that might be exchanged:\n\n__Partner A to Partner B:__ “With this ring, I promise to support you, care for you, laugh with you, share in your burdens, be honest with you, and be faithful to you in all that we may face in the years ahead. I promise to love you with everything I have, from this day forward and beyond.”\n\n__Partner B to Partner A:__ “With this ring, I promise to love you and commit myself to you for the rest of my life. I promise to stand by your side, be there for you always, and to find laughter and joy even in tough times. I promise to love and accept you just as you are, and grow with you for every year to come.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”\n\n__Partner A:__ “I will” or “I do.”\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I will” or “I do.”\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nFinally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as married. To capture the perfect moment, couples might also request that the officiant steps to the side for the kiss during the wedding nuptials.\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “By the authority vested in me, and with the trust of you all here today, I now declare you joined in love. You may now kiss!\"\n\n### Closing\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this momentous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![local-venues](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6bi7wx5xGOJJCvJcdAguMG/5d7b4e4cbc6b6ff7b686a802dd820b6b/local-venues.jpg)\n\n## Modern wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at [Why Knot Weddings](https://www.whyknotweddings.com/).*\n\nAny wedding ceremony can take a modern spin. Any number of personal touches can be added to your ceremony to make it more modern—whether you want to include your pets, switch up how your wedding party is presented, or simply add some modern flair to your [wedding vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows) and readings. Personalizing your wedding ceremony script is a great way to infuse who you really are into your big day.\n\n[![modern-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6vzCnZw6cVNXguGg1dXQB3/8486ec97b3c0573d552923629c75af02/modern-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/OE4YjDCj0vZUH2gcDUaea/74d3eaa2bd2214bdb77d7c85a6589078/modern_wedding_script__1_.pdf)\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\nThe officiant script will begin by welcoming the reception.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Good afternoon and welcome! We’d like to thank everyone on this beautiful day for coming to support [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in this exciting endeavor and union. Your friendship and support has helped to strengthen them as they’ve made their way to this moment, and they thank you for being here.”\n\n### Reading\n\nCouples may choose to include a reading in their marriage ceremony script. This reading can be anything you wish, whether it’s a special poem, a reading from a book, a quote from a movie, or a story about the couple’s relationship shared by a close friend or family member.\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows Exchange\n\nMany modern couples opt to write their own wedding vows or omit them altogether. It’s up to you! Below is an example of modern wedding vows:\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please exchange your vows.”\n\n__Partner A to Partner B:__ “[NAME], you’re my best friend. I’m in awe of your lightness, your kindness, and the purity of what it looks like to be loved by someone like you. It’s a love with no expectations, no strings attached, only a desire to support me and see me fulfilled. To know and be known by you is a gift and a privilege. I know we were made for each other. So here’s what I promise:\n\nI vow always to strive to be the best version of myself so that I can show up for you every single day. I vow to seek joy and hope even in dark times and be there for you when you need me. I vow to trust you and love you unconditionally. I vow to continue to learn from the examples of patience and selflessness that you have always embodied.”\n\n__Partner B to Partner A:__ “[NAME], I love you with my whole heart. You’ve loved me with a loyalty that I’d never experienced before, and didn’t even know existed. You have seen every part of me, and even at my lowest you have stood by my side. You’ve never given up on me, and I have no doubt that you are the person I’m meant to spend my life with. I vow to keep a soft heart when challenges come, and to be aware of my words and actions and how they affect you. I vow to support you in all things, to love you well, and to create a life we’re proud of. Life is fleeting, and I want to cherish every minute of it with you.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], do you take one another as partners from this day forward?”\n\n__Couple in unison:__ “We do.”\n\n__Officiant:__ “Will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We will.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have chosen these rings as a symbol of their unbreakable love. Please place these rings on each other’s fingers and repeat after me:\n\n‘I give you this ring as a reminder of our love that unites, inspires, and celebrates what we have.’”\n\n[Couple repeats to each other.]\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nFinally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “By the authority vested in me, it is with joy that I pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate!”\n\n### Closing\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this beautiful occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![8 Ways to Keep Family Involved in Wedding Traditions During the Ceremony](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5iGx6d7StheHPTAAUQ0qNE/2b7133813fdc9117b12c56edbc1bb817/father_inline_nikk_nguyen_photo.jpg)\n\n## Humorous wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, an ordained minister at [Universal Life Church](https://www.ulc.org/).*\n\nThere’s no rule that says your wedding ceremony has to be serious from start to finish. Some couples prefer to add a bit of humor to their ceremony for a more lighthearted affair. The following funny wedding ceremony script has all the required legal elements of becoming legally married, with a humorous touch to keep your guests on their toes. \n\n[![humorous-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/JYknezhBEviEYFkJ37X5G/e94499016dbe533af5cfd30d980dbe91/humorous-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2VmtUM9YFHVOFvmkEeNKQY/c7a0a172ac2b3e5e98c7612c1a751876/humorous_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\nThe officiant will begin by welcoming the crowd and introducing the ceremony.\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Hello and welcome! We’re here today because [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have decided they love each other so much that they want to get the government involved! But in all seriousness, a huge thanks to all who have joined us. We promise we’ll get these two hitched quickly so you can make a beeline to the open bar!\n\nI’d like to take this opportunity to ponder the meaning of marriage. Now I know I made a joke about these two loving each other so much they’ve decided to get the government involved, but we know that’s not all marriage is. It’s a tradition, yes, but it’s so much more. It might take a lot of work and compromise, but at the end of the day, this is about choosing your person until the end of this thing we call life. So no matter how many dishes they leave in the sink, no matter how horrible their cooking is, no matter how bad their mood might be on occasion—you’ve got someone who chooses to stick with you through it all. And that’s what marriage is about!”\n\n### Reading\n\nIncluding readings in your ceremony is optional, but some couples opt to personalize their ceremony with a particular reading, quote, or story. Some humorous wedding ceremonies might involve a close friend or family member sharing a lighthearted account of the couple’s relationship, with some light humor to get a laugh out of the crowd. The wedding ceremony officiant script can even include fun elements,\n\n__Officiant:__ “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B} has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to share a personal story of their relationship in honor of their marriage today.”\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows and ring exchange\n\nAt this point, couples may exchange vows if they’ve chosen to write them. Here’s an example of wedding vows with a little humor:\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ “Now, it’s time to put a ring on it! [PARTNER A], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll try to keep my mouth shut when it’s your turn to choose the movie we watch.’”\n\n[Partner A repeats.]\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ “[PARTNER B], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll consider making you dinner every once in a while.’”\n\n[Partner B repeats.]\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner A:__ “I do.”\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I do.”\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nNow, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:\n\n__Officiant:__ “What a romantic exchange. Now, I guess there’s only one thing left to do: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! Now kiss!”\n\n### Closing\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “That’s a wrap on the formal proceedings of today. [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will greet you in [LOCATION] at [TIME]. We thank you for coming—now get out of here and go celebrate!”\n\n![8 Gender-Neutral Readings for Your LBGTQ+ Wedding Ceremony](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5gXI6m0GrwXeBmQWWLlcDS/32e7f7b27bf59542d48a54e57add1320/inline_kathleen_marie-ward_photography.jpg)\n\n## Inclusive wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at [Why Knot Weddings](https://www.whyknotweddings.com/).*\n\nWhile traditional gender roles often make up the bulk of how many sample wedding ceremony scripts are written, this doesn’t have to be the case for a more inclusive ceremony. The following example script does away with gendered language and puts the focus on the love shared between the couple and what that means for them. \n\n[![inclusive-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4N2pbrFFy0aVFHh4wvr4oT/04bc20b794aa915fbde8585c33a39ba0/inclusive-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3bo3vkx3BhD4WgLC4gdLPq/7decc6efb8f10a40e64bfaf134a6e495/inclusive_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\nThe officiant will begin by welcoming the reception. This is also when the wedding officiant script can include any specific announcements, like requesting guests to silence their phones.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones! We’re gathered here today in celebration of (Partner A) and (Partner B) and to bear witness as they join their lives in marriage. On behalf of (Partner A) and (Partner B), it’s a true pleasure to have you here to celebrate this incredible moment.\n\nLove is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. Love offers hope, joy, comfort, and security, in good times and bad. Love is what spurs our personal growth and allows us to face life and all its challenges, with the unending support of the person we’ve chosen to commit our lives to. (Partner A) and (Partner B) stand before you today to share the love and happiness in their hearts as they take their relationship to a deeper level of commitment by making a passage into marriage.”\n\n### Reading\n\nWhile totally optional, couples can choose to include a reading of their choice in their ceremony. This can be anything from a particular poem or section from a book to a special movie quote or personal story about the couple’s relationship. Couples might have the officiant perform the reading or have a loved one come up to share instead.\n\n__Officiant:__ “(Partner A) and (Partner B) have selected a reading from [SOURCE] that represents their unique journey and the commitment they’re making today.”\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows exchange\n\nCouples who have chosen to write their own wedding vows will recite them here. These could be in a question-and-answer format or long-form vows written beforehand (or a combination of both). Couples can also ask their officiant to step to the side during the vow readings—it helps make the moment more intimate!\n\nHere’s an example of wedding vows for you to work from:\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “Marriage is a lifelong commitment to love and care for each other to the best of your ability. Are you both ready to take this step together?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “Yes!”\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “Do you promise to care for each other, treat each other with respect and compassion, and to always move toward love in your efforts to support one another?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We do.”\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “Do you promise to meet each challenge and triumph with integrity, gratitude, and patience, and to strive to learn and grow together for all of your days?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We do.”\n\n### Affirmation of family and friends\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “Do you, the family and friends of (Partner A) and (Partner B), give your full support today and wish them a lifetime of happiness together?”\n\n__Reception responds:__ “We do.”\n\n### Expression of intent\n\n__Officiant:__ “In the presence and witness of the loved ones you have gathered here today, I now ask you to state your intentions.\n\n(Partner A) and (Partner B), have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in the commitment of marriage?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “Yes.”\n\n__Officiant:__ “Once more, will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We will.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “(Partner A) and (Partner B), please repeat after me:\n\n‘I give you this ring as a symbol of the vows we’ve made today. I pledge to you my love, respect, and commitment. With everything that I am, I honor you.’”\n\n[Couple repeats to each other.]\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nFinally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:\n\n__Officiant:__ “Now that you, (Partner A) and (Partner B), have promised to give yourselves fully to each other, to love each other through the vows you have made, and through the giving and receiving of these rings, it is my great pleasure by the power vested in me to now pronounce you married! You may now kiss!”\n\n### Closing/invitation to reception\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for (Partner A) and (Partner B)! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![A Guide to the Wedding Ceremony Order of Events](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5gM7CP5ud1ebIEp31xl5JH/85572b49599dbe5a51611c7b4e455b4d/Hero_A-Guide-to-the-Wedding-Ceremony-Order-of-Events-Kimberly-Coccagnia-photography.jpg)\n\n## Christian wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nAs the name indicates, this script for weddings includes religious aspects, such as Bible readings and prayers. Feel free to personalize this idea to your liking and include more or fewer scriptural elements. \n\n[![christian-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1ROJmdLfXwm4naZ01Ds8wx/d81ca5ee85371b0b19c9a0f0da6dfb53/christian-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3036xpBIv7MWEGUC0Qf4aD/b484d408c837cfeb61c4d05cfb813b00/christian-wedding-script.pdf)\n\n### Processional\n\nThe processional is simply the beginning of the wedding ceremony, when guests are seated, followed by the entrance of the bridal party.\n\n### Invocation\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ \"Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in holy matrimony.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\nThe declaration of intent is a crucial element of any wedding ceremony, and is legally required to show consent among both parties to be married.\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ \"[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of his word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions:\n\nHave you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'\"\n\n[Couple responds in unison with ‘I have.’]\n\n### Reading\n\nA reading from the Bible is a common component in many Christian wedding ceremonies. While choosing a passage from Corinthians isn’t required, it’s a popular choice for many.\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “A reading from the Apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’\n\nLet us pray for this couple as they make their marriage vows.\n\nFather, as [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, amen.\"\n\n### Vows exchange\n\nToday’s wedding vows are often personalized according to whatever feels right to the couple. However, a [traditional statement of vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/traditional-wedding-vows-for-the-timeless-couple) is also common in Christian wedding ceremonies.\n\n__Couple to each other:__ “I, [NAME], take thee, [NAME], to be my wedded (husband, wife), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part. This is my solemn vow.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ \"[PARTNER A], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER B]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:\n\n‘With this ring, I thee wed.’\"\n\n[Partner A repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner B’s finger]\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ \"[PARTNER B], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER A]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:\n\n*‘With this ring, I thee wed.’\"*\n\n[Partner B repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner A’s finger]\n\n### Prayer\n\nOne distinction of a Christian wedding ceremony script is including a prayer of blessing over the union.\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ \"May Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen.\"\n\n### Pronouncement\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may kiss the bride!”\n\n### Closing/invitation to reception\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![What to Wear to a Church Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3xNVLwakY0JwANOaDWQon3/c6f876f294667a740a1540abf1bfea34/inline_kathyizzyphotography.jpg)\n\n## Catholic wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nAs with the Christian script, this version includes religious elements. However, Catholic ceremonies are greatly rooted in tradition and include formal aspects at their core. The [officiant](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-duties-of-a-wedding-officiant) is typically a priest, and these services traditionally take place in the church. \n\n[![catholic-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7LPa188lBQBu3I0ODdv70p/8aab04375b5b46d79f35bf0e5e409324/catholic-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1YvmOyZgo8EKUH4plND2Ys/7940b89cca9d4e75d80f5ec3e4c8d555/catholic_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### Entrance rite\n\nAs the entrance song is played, the assembly stands while the priest, ministers, and servers take their places, followed by the wedding party. The rest of this part of the processional can take two forms.\n\nIn the first form, the vested priests and servers greet the bridal party at the church door, and then all enter as is customary for Mass. In the second form, the priest and servers wait in the sanctuary area prepared for the couple to greet them when they arrive. In both forms, the priest always leads the procession.\n\n### Greeting\n\nOnce everyone is in place and the music has ended, the priest leads the sign of the cross, or the traditional beginning of Christian prayer, before greeting the assembly.\n\n__Priest:__ “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy spirit.”\n\n__All respond:__ “Amen.”\n\n__Priest:__ “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”\n\n### Collect (opening prayer)\n\nThe priest invites the assembly to pray. After he prays over the couple, the assembly is seated for the Liturgy of the Word.\n\n__Priest:__ “Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.”\n\n### Liturgy of the word\n\nThe liturgy of the word outside of mass usually includes three readings proclaimed by the priest, one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament aside from the Gospel, and one from the Gospel. At the conclusion of each reading, the lector will say, \"The Word of the Lord,\" and the assembly will respond, \"Thanks be to God.\"\n\n__Priest:__ “A reading from the book of Genesis 1:26-28:\n\nThen God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.” God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female, he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.” God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. The word of the Lord.’\n\n__Assembly responds:__ “Thanks be to God.”\n\n__Priest:__ “A reading from the New Testament, 1 John 4:7-12:\n\nDear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.\n\nThe word of the Lord.”\n\n__All respond:__ “Thanks be to God.”\n\n__Priest:__ “A reading from the Gospel, Matthew 5:13-16:\n\nYou are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”\n\n__All respond:__ “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.” \n\nAssembly is seated.\n\n### Homily\n\nThe assembly is seated while the priest (or deacon) offers a homily taken from the Scripture readings. The priest uses this text to discuss the sacredness of Christian marriage, the dignity of conjugal love, the grace of the sacrament, and the responsibilities of married people.\n\n__Priest:__ \"John 3:30 says ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’\n\nThose simple, direct words of St. John the Baptist, whose feast we celebrate today, summarize the life of the Christian disciple. In all things, we want Jesus to increase and our own will, our own desires, our own attachments, to decrease. In my heart, in my prayer, in my family, in my parish, in my work, in my study, in my leisure, in my entertainment - may the Lord Jesus increase!\"\n\n### Celebration of matrimony\n\nAll stand, and the couple comes to the altar, flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:\n\n__Priest:__ “Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.”\n\nIf both parties are Christian: “Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. Through a special sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by holy baptism, that you may be enriched with his blessing, so that you may have the strength to be faithful to each other forever, and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of the church, I ask you to state your intentions.”\n\n### Address and statement of intentions\n\nAll stand, including the couple and witnesses, while the priest asks the couple some questions to state their intentions about their freedom of choice, fidelity to each other, and the acceptance and upbringing of children (if necessary).\n\n__Priest to couple:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?”\n\n__Couple in unison:__ “I have.”\n\n__Priest to couple:__ “Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Couple in unison:__ “I am.”\n\n### Exchange of consent\n\nThe couple will declare their consent to be married by stating their vows. If you’re writing your own vows, they must be prepared with the wedding script beforehand.\n\n__Partner A:__ “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”\n\n### Blessing and giving of rings\n\n__Priest:__ “Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. so that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.”\n\n__Assembly responds:__ “Amen.”\n\nThe priest now sprinkles the wedding rings with holy water before handing them to each partner.\n\n__Partner A:__ “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”\n\n[Partner A places the ring on Partner B’s finger]\n\n__Partner B:__ “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”\n\n[Partner B places the ring on Partner A’s finger]\n\n### Prayer\n\nThe priest and the assembly sing or pray the Lord’s Prayer in unison.\n\n### Nuptial blessing\n\nThe couple kneels at the altar, where the priest faces them and prays over them.\n\n__Priest:__ “Now let us humbly invoke God’s blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.”\n\n### Communion\n\nThe priest performs communion and distributes the body and blood of Christ to Catholics in the assembly, starting with the newly married couple. An appropriate song is usually sung as the assembly proceeds to the altar for communion.\n\n### Pronouncement\n\n__Priest to reception:__ “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may now kiss!”\n\n### Dismissal\n\n__Priest to assembly:__ “Go in peace to glorify the Lord with your life.”\n\n__Assembly responds:__ “Thanks be to God.”\n\n### Recessional\n\nAt the closing of the ceremony, the couple, bridal party, ministers, and the priest will proceed out of the church, often accompanied by music.\n\n![Planning a Traditional Queer Jewish Wedding2_Brindamour Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1sya2SvknLGfj4YLODdGUm/a3c739ddbb1b3f76fd8eec94ccbb971d/My_project-1__14_.png)\n\n## Jewish wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nA Jewish wedding also has traditional elements, many of which are centuries old. Talk to your officiant (often a rabbi) about making changes and personalizing this wedding ceremony outline to fit your needs without breaking Jewish tradition.\n\n[![jewish-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6sS2PWSYfQiDUGFlEkkLn7/480513ae35157ca9f3705290c1a49eeb/jewish-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7fN0SjRtlIpDkzCnwRiGCf/cff48eee816a7669ec83169c084d1a41/0614_ea_jewish-ceremony-script-r__1_.pdf)\n\n### Signing of the Ketubah\n\nThe Ketubah is an ancient marriage contract that documents the commitment between the couple. Typically, the groom signs the contract with the rabbi and two male Jewish witnesses present, along with the bride, in private before the main ceremony begins.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Please gather around for this ‘ceremony before the ceremony’, the signing of the Ketubah. Bride and groom, in this quiet moment before your public wedding ceremony begins, those closest to you are here to witness the signing of the important documents that make this day a remarkable moment for you both. As you become legally husband and wife, we delight in your happiness, and we wish you only good things to come as you face life together. This beautiful Ketubah has these words for you today, and I ask the groom’s witness [NAME] to read the words.”\n\n[Groom’s witness reads the Ketubah.]\n\n__Officiant:__ “I ask you both to sign the Ketubah as the first ceremonial act of your wedding day celebration.”\n\n[Couple signs the Ketubah.]\n\n__Officiant:__ “Now I ask your parents to sign the Ketubah.”\n\n[Couple’s parents sign the Ketubah.]\n\n__Officiant:__ “And now I sign it as well.”\n\n[Officiant signs the Ketubah.]\n\n### Processional\n\nThe ceremony begins once guests are seated.\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “This is the day that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] marry the person they love the most in the world…the one they will laugh with, live for, and love for the rest of their lives. So it is only fitting that those closest to them are here to witness this special day. Your presence at this wedding celebration is a reminder to [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] of how lucky they are to have you in support of their union.”\n\n### The chuppah\n\nThe chuppah is a canopy structure symbolizing the home the couple will build together following their marriage. Modern couples use the chuppah as an opportunity to customize their wedding and use it as a reflection of their unique taste and style.\n\n__Officiant:__ “The chuppah under which [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] stand is the traditional structure used in a Jewish wedding ceremony. What you see in the setting for this ceremony tells you so much about the path that brings [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to be married. Today, their families are joined together, and the combined richness of their two heritages will be the foundation for their life together.\n\nAs the open sides of a chuppah symbolize hospitality, the chuppah in this ceremony invites you all to feel welcome today, for this is the day of all days that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] want to share with you.”\n\n### Circling\n\nAfter the couple enters the chuppah, the bride/groom circles the bride/groom seven times, symbolizing building a wall of love around the relationship. It also represents the seven days of creation.\n\n### Declaration of support\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ “A marriage is a lifelong adventure. Today’s ceremony, while important, is only the beginning of that journey. Marriage is a challenge that will require [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to have love and understanding. You must dedicate yourselves to each other, listen to each other, and be honest with each other. You will need laughter and forgiveness, tenderness and empathy.”\n\n### Sand ceremony\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ “We will now begin the sand ceremony. Through it, [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will symbolize the permanence of the commitment of their marital relationship. They will each pour separate containers of sand into one vessel.\n\nEach of these grains represents a unique aspect of themselves. Their experiences, outlooks, feelings, and the events that shaped them into the person that stands before you. As these grains of sand intermingle in one shared vessel, they symbolize the merging of two individual lives into an inseparable pair.\n\n[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], just as these grains of sand can never again be separated, so too will you be forever joined.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ \"Do you, [PARTNER A], take this [woman, man] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [her, him] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'\"\n\n__Partner A:__ “I do.”\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ \"Do you, [PARTNER B], take this [man, woman] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him, her] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'\"\n\n__Partner B:__ “I do.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ \"[PARTNER A], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER B]’s finger and repeat after me:\n\n‘[PARTNER B], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’\"\n\n[Partner A repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner B’s finger.] \n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ \"[PARTNER B], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER A]’s finger and repeat after me:\n\n‘[PARTNER A], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’\"\n\n[Partner B repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner A’s finger.] \n\n### Blessing of the hands\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ \"[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please join hands. Look at these hands, for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.\n\nYour future will be built by these hands. As the years pass, these hands will love you and cherish you. The slightest touch from these hands will give you comfort. These are the hands that will hold your children. These are the hands that will keep your family as one. When you have tears of sorrow or tears of joy, they will be wiped away by these hands.\"\n\n### The Seven Blessings\n\nThe Seven Blessings are now recited.\n\n1. Blessing over the wine as a symbol of joy\n2. Blessing praising God to whom all creation proclaims praise\n3. Blessing praising God as creator of humanity\n4. Blessing praising God who created humanity in the divine image\n5. Prayer of hope\n6. Prayer for the happiness of the couple\n7. Prayer for the individual hope for happiness for the couple combined with prayer for joy in the messianic future\n\nFollowing the Seven Blessings, the couple shares a cup of wine.\n\n### Breaking the glass\n\nThe ceremony is concluded by the tradition of the groom (or bride) stomping on glass and shattering it. This signals the audience to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal tov!”\n\n### The Yichud\n\nAfter the ceremony concludes, the final ritual takes place in the yichud or “tent of seclusion.” This is considered to be one of the most private and intimate parts of the wedding day, where the newlyweds can savor their first moments alone before the celebration continues.\n\n![couple at wedding altar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1jdRkYJr3up5XdVAnL9V53/942cbd52a04de9f723369ec963a83f12/HERO_DolcePhotography_1080x720.jpg)\n\n## Protestant wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nThere are many denominations within the Protestant faith, and the standard ceremony for each may vary. Those with a more liberal interpretation of the wedding ceremony might be open to including more nontraditional elements in the wedding script. The script below is adapted from the Book of Common Prayer, and is just one of many possible variations of a Protestant wedding ceremony.\n\n[![protestant-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7n7X1qx20jkIzn2iVGf0P/428295cc4912b0c60ff5af0ef742b5b3/protestant-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/51utSohJeM8kgFxmu9TkE9/d36928dd9c81858aa17a9b6b78e8cc5d/0614_ea_protestant-ceremony-script-r__1_.pdf)\n\n### Introductory prayer\n\nThe officiant, known as the celebrant, faces the couple and congregation and offers an introduction:\n\n__Officiant:__ “Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this couple in holy matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding at Cana in Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His church, and holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.\n\nThe union of marriage is intended by God for their mutual joy, for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity, and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.”\n\n### The interrogation\n\n__Celebrant to the congregation:__ “Into this union [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace.”\n\n__Celebrant to the couple:__ “I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's word, do now confess it.”\n\n__Celebrant to Partner A:__ “[PARTNER A], will you have this [woman, man] to be your [wife, husband], to live together with [her, him] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [her, him], comfort [her, him], honor and keep [her, him], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [her, him] as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner A:__ “I will.”\n\n__Celebrant to Partner B:__ “[PARTNER B], will you have this [man, woman] to be your [husband, wife], to live together with [him/her] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [him/her], comfort [him/her], honor and keep [him/her], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [him/her] as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I will.”\n\n__Celebrant to the congregation:__ “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?”\n\n__Congregation responds:__ “We will.”\n\n### The presentation\n\nThe presentation represents the traditional “giving away” of the bride, typically followed by a hymn. Modern Protestants may opt for a poem, romantic reading, or song of their choice in place of a hymn.\n\n__Celebrant:__ “Who gives [PARTNER A] to be married to [PARTNER B]?”\n\n__Partner A or B’s father:__ “[He, she] gives [himself, herself], with the blessing of [his, her] mother and father.”\n\n### Vows exchange\n\nSome modern Protestants might choose to write their own wedding vows, but the traditional vows most often recited are as follows:\n\n__Partner A to Partner B:__ “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”\n\n__Partner B to Partner A:__ “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”\n\n### The blessing and exchange of rings\n\n__The celebrant offers a blessing on the rings:__ “Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this couple have bound themselves to each other, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”\n\n__Congregation responds:__ “Amen.”\n\n__Partner A and Partner B place the rings on each other’s fingers and say:__ “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”\n\n__The celebrant joins the right hands of both partners and says:__ “Now that [NAME] and [NAME] have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce them [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife] in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those who God has joined together, let no man put asunder.”\n\n__Congregation responds:__ “Amen.”\n\n### Concluding prayers\n\nThe celebrant asks the congregation to stand and repeat the Lord’s Prayer:\n\n__All:__ “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”\n\nIn traditional Protestant weddings, the celebrant will direct the couple to kneel while further blessings and songs are offered. The celebrant then addresses the kneeling couple and recites another blessing:\n\n__Celebrant:__ “May God bless you and keep you; may the Lord mercifully with his favor look upon you, filling you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that you may faithfully live together in this life, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen.”\n\n__Celebrant to the congregation:__ “The peace of the Lord be with you always.”\n\n__All respond:__ “And also with you.”\n\nFinally, the couple stands to face each other while the celebrant offers a final line to end the ceremony:\n\n__Celebrant:__ “[NAME] and [NAME], having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]. You may now kiss!”\n\n### Closing/invitation to reception\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![wedding-ceremony-songs](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7b4hCQGO7uVKySNDbx7cUr/330dd75bbf9250fec414d06a32ba71a4/wedding-ceremony-songs.jpg)\n\n## 4 Tips for writing your own ceremony script \n\nWhile writing your wedding ceremony script might feel daunting, these tips can help take the pressure off and provide some much-needed guidance on how to bring your ceremony vision to life—whatever that means to you.\n\n### 1. Talk with your partner\n\nWriting your script is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of your relationship before you enter into marriage. Talking with your partner about your ideas and desires for your wedding ceremony is an important first step—it helps you get aligned on a [mutual vision](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-create-a-vision-board) and ensures the ceremony is a reflection of what matters most to you as a couple.","body2":"### 2. Work with your officiant\n\nYour officiant can provide practical advice on how to get started crafting your ceremony script, and some might even have an outline for you to work from. Since your officiant has most likely conducted their fair share of wedding ceremonies, they’re an excellent resource for any questions you might have.\n\n### 3. Don’t procrastinate\n\nWhile you certainly don’t need to memorize your wedding ceremony script, don't put it off until the last minute—especially if you plan on [writing your own vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows). Procrastinating until the week of your wedding can add a ton of pressure to an already hectic time, so do yourself a favor and get started early!\n\n### 4. Consider the length of your script\n\nWhile your wedding ceremony script should be whatever you want it to be, being mindful of time and length is something your guests will appreciate. Anything longer than 30 minutes might leave guests checking their watches! Once you’ve written a draft and have the chance to rehearse it, you’ll find that you can pack plenty of meaning and resonance in less than 15 minutes.\n\n![modern-spin-on-reciting-vows](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5tAePFi5ZiqNmkelDuBBWP/bfa7f506e46743da3d10ecfc1560cc54/modern-spin-on-reciting-vows.jpg)\n\n## Simple wedding ceremony script starter outline \n\nNow that you’ve read some ceremony script examples, you can confidently start writing your own! No matter what you decide to include, what matters most is that the words shared are from the heart and represent what your marriage means to you. Here’s an ultra-simple outline to help you start formulating your own wedding script for officiants to use. \n\n- Officiant’s welcome\n- Short sermon to the congregation\n- Charge to the couple\n- Declaration of the intent to marry\n- [Vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/history-of-wedding-vows)\n- Ring exchange\n- Pronouncement of marriage\n- Conclusion and invitation to reception\n\n## FAQs about wedding ceremony scripts \n\nFind answers to any lingering wedding ceremony script questions below.\n\n### How do I personalize my wedding ceremony script?\n\nStart by nailing down the overall format of your script, including the order of the ceremony and the role of the officiant. Then weave in personal elements significant to you and your partner, such as customizing your vows, a special unity ceremony, or a reading that holds meaning. Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to follow a traditional wedding ceremony script.\n\n### How do I start a wedding ceremony script?\n\nMost wedding ceremony outlines start with the wedding officiant welcoming guests and thanking them for joining in the wedding day. Religious ceremonies may start with a reading from the Bible or whatever is customary for different faiths. That said, your ceremony script can begin however you like, whether that’s opening with a meaningful quote, poem, or endearing story about you and your partner.\n\n### Where can I find wedding ceremony scripts?\n\nThe best place to find both religious and non religious wedding ceremony scripts is online. You can find downloadable pre-written scripts by searching for a specific religious denomination or the mood you want your ceremony to take. For extra inspiration, search for wedding ceremony videos on YouTube to get a feel for what different scripts sound like during a real ceremony.\n\n### How long should the officiant speak at the wedding?\n\nYour officiant wedding script should get straight to the point while adding personality. Talk to your celebrant about the parts that are most important to you, such as giving a [blessing to the couple](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-blessing). However, if the sermon isn’t essential to you, feel free to shorten it. The last thing you want to do is bore your guests, so concise yet interesting is best.\n\n## Summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts \n\nAlthough there is a bit of protocol surrounding the order of service, there is a lot of freedom within with most scripts. If you’re particularly religious, you may want to chat with your priest, rabbi, or pastor about how to best adapt your ceremony. However, if you’re not planning on a religious ceremony, chat with your partner about expectations and how to go from expected to highly personal.\n\nAs you finish off your wedding planning, Zola is here to help every step of the way. Whether designing [custom wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper) or putting the final touches on your [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry), Zola has all the expert advice you’ll need to make your wedding vision come to life.\n","tag":"How-To ","updatedAt":"2024-06-10T22:34:43.105Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"heres-exactly-what-to-put-in-your-wedding-welcome-bags","title":"12 Tips on What to Put in Your Wedding Welcome Bags","excerpt":"Greet your guests with thoughtfully curated wedding welcome bags. Find perfect favors & essentials to delight your guests as they join your celebration.","author":"Laura Hensley","publishedAt":"2024-12-01T12:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3zZPEPdvLUwpkPiVDeNx3A/5f13e01c5e40872d216606d25e5ca605/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Zola image of blue wedding bag with tissue paper and a heart on front"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"__Inside this article:__ \n- Why have wedding welcome bags?\n- Ideas on what to put in wedding welcome bags\n- How to package wedding welcome bags\n- When to give out wedding welcome bags\n- Zola's expert tips on personalizing your wedding welcome bags\n- Who should receive a welcome basket?\n","body":"__TLDR:__\n- Practical things like snacks, water bottles, and a local map all add interest to wedding gift baskets.\n- You can use totes, boxes, or baskets to hold your wedding welcome bag items.\n- For out-of-town guests, have their welcome gifts ready as soon as they arrive—even waiting in their hotel room to surprise them.\n\n## Why have wedding welcome bags? \n\nWedding welcome bags are a great way to warmly greet [wedding guests](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/wedding-guests) as soon as they arrive at your festivities. These gift bags let family and friends know that you’re grateful they’re able to share your special weekend with you. Plus, wedding welcome bags are filled with items that will make guests’ experiences as comfortable—and memorable—as possible. \n\nAccording to McKenna Folmar, wedding planner at [Events by McKenna](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/events-by-mckenna), welcome gifts can make your guests feel appreciated. \"Wedding welcome bags are a delightful way to greet your guests, especially those who have traveled to join in your special day,\" she says. \"They offer a warm, personalized touch that can make your loved ones feel appreciated right from the start.\"\n\nIt's no wonder that welcome bags are particularly popular for [destination weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/destination-wedding-checklist), but they’re also super common for local celebrations. They're a nice surprise for your wedding guests that can be waiting for them in their hotel room upon arrival. \"Wedding welcome bags are more than just a thoughtful gesture; they’re a chance to make your guests feel taken care of and excited for the weekend ahead,\" says Folmar. \n\nRead on for our tips on how to build and how to package your wedding welcome bags—and when you should give them out to guests. \n\n## Ideas on what to put in wedding welcome bags \n\nAccording to Folmar, the essentials are always a great place to start. She says, \"These are items that not only show thoughtfulness but also help make your guests’ experience smooth and enjoyable.\"\n\n### 1. Welcome note\nWhat would a wedding welcome bag be without a welcome note? Your note doesn’t need to be long—a simple, meaningful message is all that’s necessary. [Handwritten notes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-write-wedding-thank-you-cards) are always appreciated, but if time doesn’t permit, try to at least sign your names in ink. Don’t forget to include your wedding hashtag at the bottom of the note, too, or any other [social callouts](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/9-savvy-ways-to-use-social-media-at-your-wedding) you want to make. \n\n[Forever Moments](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/forever-moments--2) wedding planner, Brittany Poole also added her insight. \"I highly recommend a hand written note for each bag,\" she says. Having the personalized touch of showing appreciation and adding specific anecdotes can make your guests feel extra special.\n\n![Wedding Welcome Bag Notes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XGT7i0k49aVKt2BX3OFhL/e9641c188ee4a9dba6ebe4df9a323c39/Wedding_Welcome_Bag_Notes.jpg)\n\n### 2. Itinerary\nEven the simplest wedding needs a plan. \"Including a simple wedding weekend itinerary ensures your guests are informed and know where they need to be and when,\" says Folmar. \"This can be especially helpful for out-of-town guests who may not be familiar with the area.\" For getaways or multi-day events, a detailed itinerary is crucial. Letting guests know where they need to be and when saves them from texting or calling you, or continuously logging onto your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). \n\n### 3. Map\nIf you’re hosting a destination or an out-of-town wedding, include a map of the area and suggestions of things to do. \"Providing a small guide to the area with maps, restaurant recommendations, or must-see attractions can help guests make the most of their time, especially if they have some downtime during the weekend,\" says Folmar. \n\n### 4. Contact list\nWe recommend also including a list of contacts. You can add local emergency numbers and the names and numbers of the best people to reach out to for any questions—you and your fiance will havé enough going on.\n\n### 5. Snacks\nIt’s not a welcome bag if there’s no food. Well, it can be, but your guests will be happy to have their favorite snacks. Folmar says, \"Go-to snacks like granola bars, nuts, pretzels, or candy offer a little something for guests to munch on in between meals.\" \n\nThe welcome bag snack is also a great time to showcase a local treat, like homemade caramel squares or fresh shortbread cookies from a popular bakery. \"If you want to get a bit fancier, local specialties like artisan chocolates or regional treats are a fun way to elevate this standard,\" adds Folmar.\n\n![BluePhotoNYC InlineImage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2ET2WujqYArzqjKl4KtBV5/2017e7c56f62b9dce66c73f5a8325532/BluePhotoNYC_InlineImage_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Blue Photo NYC\n\n### 6. Water bottle—or two\nThis is a necessary staple. If your guests are staying in a hotel, they may not feel comfortable drinking tap water. Offer water bottles that they can bring with them to events or can graciously grab the morning after your reception. It’s a wedding after all—people will be celebrating. Folmars insight? \"Whether guests are just arriving after a long journey or getting ready for a day of wedding festivities, having a bottle of water is always appreciated,\" she reveals.\n\n### 7. Mints\nWeddings are basically mixers for your guests. It’s a lot of small talk with a lot of people. Add in [passed hors d'oeuvres](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-tips-for-successful-cocktail-hour) and things can get, well, stale. Keep everyone fresh with a small pack of mints. Add a tin of your favorite mints and guests can throw them in their clutches or suit jackets for the night. \n\n### 8. Something personal \nYour wedding welcome bag should be an extension of you and your partner. So, add a memento that’s reflective of your relationship. If you’re a huge tea lover, give guests a bag of your favorite kind. If your partner has a notorious sweet tooth, include their favorite [chocolate bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wow-your-guests-with-a-delicious-wedding-dessert-bar). If you two are famous for your homemade jam, gift everyone a small jar. Include a little note or label to explain the item’s significance. \n\n\"Personalized items such as monogrammed tote bags, candles, or even custom koozies give your guests a little something to remember the weekend by,\" says Folmar. \"These extras show thoughtfulness and add an element of surprise.\"\n\n![vahdam-teas-set](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3KSTT5UISXMg3vKPFSORFL/40b46d46f366626ffc3ed5f9b4e177bb/vahdam-teas-set.jpg)\n\n### 9. Single-serving alcohol\nHelp guests get the [party started](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas) with a cute mini bottle of champagne, a can of a local craft beer, or a sparkling rosé. You can also gift a mini liquor bottle and a small mixer. For example, a nip of gin and a can of flavored tonic will set the evening off—or end it—right. Throw in a colorful paper straw and bottle openers for a decorative touch.\n\n### 10. Beach towels\nHaving a waterside destination wedding? Your guests will love the idea of having a beach towel to take to the beach or pool. Destination wedding welcome bags are extremely fun for couples to curate. Just choose items that will aid your out of town guests throughout your wedding weekend. Gifts + a [beach wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/pros-and-cons-of-a-beach-wedding) always equals a win in our book.\n\n### 11. Hangover kit\nHaving an open bar? Include a hangover kit in your welcome baskets. \"Hangover kits are both practical and fun,\" suggests Folmar. \"A mini hangover kit could include items like Advil, mints, an eye mask, and a hydrating drink or electrolyte powder to help your guests feel their best after a night of celebrating.\"\n\n### 12. Seasonal items\nBordering on the practical, include season-specific items for the comfort of your guests. \"For summer weddings, sunscreen, bug spray, and fans are great additions,\" recommends Folmar. \"In the fall or winter, think about including cozy extras like a small blanket or hand warmers.\"\n\n## How to package wedding welcome bags \nPackage your wedding welcome bags in a way that showcases your [wedding’s theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now) and your personality. If you’re getting hitched waterfront, for example, you may want a nautical-style tote with a rope handle. If your wedding is in a country garden, think floral-print paper bags with pastel ribbon. \n\n### 1. Gift bags\nVellum or craft paper bags are easy to personalize and decorate—and they’re budget-friendly. They also make packing and bringing them to your guests’ accommodations easy. Use a stamp or customized sticker to label each bag with your and your partner’s name and wedding date.\n\nIf you want something more playful, brand each bag with the [wedding hashtag](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/9-easy-ways-to-create-your-wedding-hashtag). Add tissue paper on top, and tie a ribbon around the bag’s handles to seal the gift. \n\n![Unsplash InlineImage 1080x720 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Ohw1ymX79s12z2bBdhOa0/422197e4daafbe545c496709223486c8/Unsplash_InlineImage_1080x720__1_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n### 2. Tote bags\nTote bags are a take-home souvenir in and of themselves. This option may be better for smaller weddings as it’s definitely an expensive choice. You can go classic with a standard plain tote, or personalize the bags with a custom design or message. You can customize the bags with your couple monogram, your names, or just your wedding date and location. \n\n### 3. Baskets\nUnless they're collapsible, baskets may not be practical for a destiation wedding or guests who are flying. However, if you're willing to thrift and wash your baskets, this can be an economical way to provide something beautiful to house your wedding welcome present fo guests who are within driving distance.\n\n### 4. Boxes\nLike craft paper bags, paper or cardboard [wedding welcome](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-welcome-sign-ideas) boxes are easy to assemble and recycle—which is ideal for guests traveling light. Give a box the same treatment you would give a bag. Add a custom sticker, fill it with tissue paper, and add your items. It’s important to get a box that’s sturdy enough to hold your bag contents, too. \n\n![Wedding Welcome Box Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6qY7XwjAlqIyrOrQkWSkEH/1182e6ae8e53392560e925645f6dfec0/Wedding_Welcome_Box_Ideas.jpg)\n\n### 5. Burlap bags\nLove burlap? Instead of including it in your wedding decor, put your items inside of burlap bags complete with gift tags welcoming your friends and family. What to put in your welcome bag is as important as what you put it in, too. Bags made of burlap are also sturdy and pack well, meaning they're perfect for destination weddings. Your guests can use the bag for packing well beyond the wedding day.\n\n## When to give out wedding welcome bags \n\n### If you’re having a destination wedding…\nIf guests are coming from out of town at various times, it’s best to have their wedding welcome bag ready for them as soon as they arrive. \"Most couples opt to have the welcome bags delivered to the guests’ hotels,\" says Folmar. \"Coordinate with the hotel staff to have the bags placed in the guests' rooms or handed out at check-in. This way, your guests can enjoy them as soon as they arrive.\"\n\nIf possible, arrange for the bags to be ready in their rooms (if everyone is staying at the same accommodation), or have them handed out at check-in. Ask your wedding party to help organize this.\n\nThings to consider: If you’re traveling far for your [destination wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations), you want to either have your wedding bags shipped to your location ahead of time or packed carefully and transported by your wedding party. Since it’s easy for things to get moved around or damaged in transit, don’t assemble the bags until you’ve arrived. \n\n### If you’re having a local wedding…\nIt’s pretty typical to have welcome bags ready at the various hotels or other guest [accommodations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-book-hotel-rooms-for-your-wedding-guests). However, if your wedding is small or most of your guests are traveling from their homes day-of, you can also have welcome bags on display in a designated area of your venue.\n\n\"If you’re hosting a welcome party or rehearsal dinner, distributing the bags there ensures all your guests receive them at once and sets the tone for the weekend,\" advises Folmar. You can arrange gifts on a front table, stack on a decorative shelf, or have members of the [wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-many-people-in-wedding-party) hand them out to each guest as they arrive.\n\n![Wedding Welcome Gift Box Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/aN5de1DVp24ZDxGXhnBjz/a0862c7bb4979c0e51172c4ad0ad48c6/Wedding_Welcome_Gift_Box_Ideas.jpg)\nPhoto by Wijdan Mq on Unsplash\n\n## Zola's expert tips on personalizing your wedding welcome bags \n\nBeyond learning what to put in wedding welcome bags, you may also be wondering how to infuse your personality while designing gifts that really speak to your guests. Here are a few ideas from our expert team on personalizing your welcome gifts.\n- Use your wedding website to query your guests on what they like. If you're putting together snacks or drinks, you can surprise them with their favorites.\n- Also, make note if your guests have any allergies. Special diets, such as lactose-free or gluten-free, should be noted on their responses, and you can use this insight to curate the perfect goodie baskets.\n- Get ultra-personal by providing monogrammed items. An initialed travel beauty bag or personalized dish towel can add a specialty touch.\n- Have favorite products? Include them in your welcome goodie baskets. If you found an amazing natural suncreen, soothing lip balm, or game that's a surefire hit, put it inside. \n\nPoole suggests polling your guests beforehand to further curate your welcome gifts. \"Because I always recommend the couple ask their guests about any food allergies/dietary restrictions in the RSVP, the couple will also have that information to provide any alternatives to the original food/beverage selections for those specific guests,\" she adds. Poole also notes that adding his and hers food and beverages can further hone your selections. \n\nLastly, Poole recommends adding a location-specific gift to your welcome baskets. \"I tell the couple to include some type of location-based gift such as a keychain or cup,\" she adds. \"One of my bride's welcome bags had a Starbucks mug with the city they were getting married in.\" How thoughtful!\n\nFolmar also has ideas for locally-sourced treats. \"Incorporating items that highlight the location of your wedding adds a unique touch,\" she says. \"Hosting your wedding in California? Include local wine or a pack of gourmet almonds. For a wedding in New Orleans? Maybe some beignets or chicory coffee would be perfect.\"\n\n## Who should receive a welcome basket? \nOf course, wedding welcome bags aren’t required for all weddings (budgets are important, we get it!), they are a thoughtful addition that really adds to the guest experience. However, if you choose to have them, there is a bit of protocol to follow.\n\n\"As for etiquette, it’s recommended to provide welcome bags for all your out-of-town guests,\" advises Folmar. \"If budget allows, you may even consider including local guests, especially if they’re staying overnight at the hotel or attending the full weekend of events.\"\n\nAre you looking for more ways for your wedding guests to feel comfortable? Learn how to keep your guests informed about [changes to your big day](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-update-guests-about-changes-to-your-wedding) and briefing them on [what they should wear](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-wear-to-a-wedding), Zola has all the answers you need.","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-12-01T22:47:10.307Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"10-tips-on-how-to-walk-down-the-aisle","title":"10 Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle","excerpt":"Learn how to walk down the aisle with confidence on your wedding day. Practice these tips and to shake wedding nerves and look incredible in your photos.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-06T19:28:49.603Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4mxsphkEoFTD1SOr3csU9z/d5ba8ceb2b3d933a5bcdf093131f4a21/hero_intimate-modern-wedding-at-tribeca-360-36_L.HewittPhotography.jpg","altText":"10-tips-on-how-to-walk-down-the-aisle"},"heroCredit":"Hewitt Photography","body":"It’s understandable to be nervous about walking down the aisle on your wedding day. No matter how much thought and work you put into the [color palettes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now \"5 Wedding Color Palettes to Try Right Now\") and [flower arrangements](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers), at that moment, all eyes are on you. \n\nAlthough the following tips are meant to help you learn how to walk down the aisle properly during a [traditional English white wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget), customs differ widely from one culture or religion to the next. These tips can help anyone preparing to take center stage stay calm and feel more comfortable throughout the ceremony.\n\n## 1. Make Sure the Wedding Party Knows Their Part\nThe more bridesmaids and/or groomsmen you have in your wedding party, the more organized your wedding processional needs to be. If you each only have one or two people at your side, there is plenty of time for everyone to walk out individually. If you each have four or five people in your processional, pair them off to help move things along. \n\nIf you have a large wedding processional, consider sending the group out in two waves, one for each side of the aisle. They can walk in pairs if you need to save time. And don’t forget to plot out exactly where each person will stand. If need be, you can use place markers to make sure no one crowds the officiant during the wedding ceremony. \n\n## 2. Practice Your Timing\nOnce you’ve chosen the processional music, whether it’s the classic “Wedding March” or something special to you, give it a few trial runs to get the timing down. A wedding processional usually lasts around three to four minutes, and timing for groups or individuals will vary depending on the size of your wedding party. \n\nIt shouldn’t take you any more than 30 to 45 seconds to walk down the aisle. That will allow enough time for everyone to enjoy the moment and for the photographer to get a few good snaps. It may help to count in your head as you time your steps. \n\nThe more you practice, the easier it will be to get through any anxiety that may come up on your wedding day. \n\n## 3. Perfect Your Posture\nIf your clothing is flowy or heavy, or you’re not used to walking in the shoes you chose, it may be hard to stand up straight. You may also be tempted to look down at your feet. Your photos will look much better if you can maintain your posture while you walk.\n\nThe best way to keep your head level is to lift your chin and try to keep your earlobes in line with your shoulders. If you spend a lot of time looking down on your computer or phone, your neck muscles may not be used to it, but practicing every day will help. \n\nStand straight and tall. Push your shoulders back and keep them down. This will help you avoid hunching, especially if you’re holding a bouquet. As you walk, keep your knees bent and your feet shoulder-width apart. Tuck your tummy in to keep your core engaged and help you maintain.\n\n## 4. Loosen Up\nFocusing on your posture is important, but you don’t want to go rigid. \n\nYou should let your body move as naturally as possible. Keep anything you may be carrying—like a bouquet—a few inches in front of your stomach, but allow your arms to move some when you walk. And resist stiffening your neck to keep a veil or [floral crown](https://www.zola.com/blog/wedding-inspiration/ultimate-guide-to-floral-crowns/ \"The Ultimate Guide To Floral Crowns\") in place. Instead, look from side to side as you walk down the aisle and try to make eye contact with your guests as you go. (If eye contact is too much for you at the moment, you can look at people’s heads or shoulders.) \n\nEven if you feel a little nervous, you will look more natural this way, and it will make a big difference in the photos and videos. \n\n## 5. Smile\nHopefully, this will be a no brainer. If you are swept away in the moment, you will likely be unable to keep yourself from smiling, But if your nerves are getting the better of you, close your eyes and take a breath when your entrance song begins. Take a second to clear your mind before you start your walk. Relax your face and jaw muscles, and let your tongue lay slack in your mouth. Lift your eyebrows slightly, and think happy or goofy thoughts, or even something embarrassing, and smile. Small is better than big if you’re nervous, but don’t hold back once you start to feel it for real. \n\n## 6. Lock Elbows With Your Escort\nIf your mom or dad, or anyone else special to you will be walking you down the aisle, have them lock elbows with you. If two people are walking you down the aisle, have them lock arms on either side of you. That way, you will be sure to start on the same foot as each other for a smooth walk. \n\nIf you are holding a bouquet, locking arms with your escort can also remind you to keep your flowers low. Not only will it be more flattering, but it will also make sure the camera can see your outfit. \n\n![Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle IL](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/01OxryVnt6Q3Bzst6T72dM/6b64c536ed0a7243dced92814f5e6a5a/inline_sparkly-holiday-wedding-at-the-phoenix-55_AlexMariePhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits* // Alex Marie Photography\n\n## 7. Watch Your Step\nNo one wants to trip in the middle of their ceremony. If you are mindful of how you step, you can reach the end of the aisle without incident. However, you also need to be aware of what you are wearing and how it may interfere with your stride. \n\nIf you are wearing a long, flowy wedding dress, you can avoid stepping on it without having to look down at all. Each time you put your foot forward, your dress will move against the back of your leg. Wait until the hem of your dress hits your ankle before you take your next step, and you won’t have to worry about stepping on your dress. \n\nIf you aren’t a pro at wearing heels and decide to sport them for your marriage ceremony, you can get some practice in at home by walking around on the balls of your feet. This will strengthen your legs and ankles so you can stay steady on your feet. You should also break your shoes in before the ceremony. \n\n## 8. Make Time for Yourself\nWhen the big day arrives, take the time to eat breakfast and stay hydrated. You are much more likely to be stressed, woozy, or light-headed if you haven’t taken care of yourself all day. But even more essential is scheduling some time right before your grand entrance. \n\nWhile you’ll likely want to make some last-minute touch-ups to your hair or makeup before you go down the aisle, give yourself at least 15 additional minutes to use the restroom, have a glass of water, and take some time to collect yourself right before the ceremony begins. If you’re jumping from one thing to the next all day, you’re more likely to be flooded with stress the moment all eyes are on you. \n\n![Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Ux8xyBfYod2eJk9IPUHWz/0d3ef4c3e057fa46e7c4f53a8b872968/inline_cheery-bright-summertime-san-diego-wedding-16_FonyatWeddingPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits* // Fonyat Wedding Photography\n\n## 9. Don’t Skip the Dress Rehearsal\nAs much as you practice at home, you still need to do a run-through at the venue. Put on your song, make sure you have the timing right, and put on your best posture and smile. This will let you know precisely how far the walk will be and whether or not there’s anything that might trip you up.\n\nIt will also help you be aware of any bright lights that might be shining in your eyes, so you can be prepared to avoid any squinting or grimacing. The fewer surprises there are on the big day, the better. \n\n## 10. Enjoy Yourself\nIf reading anything on this list made you even more worried than you were before, you can scratch it. After all, [it’s your wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-ceremony-programs). If you are having fun, it will show, and you won’t have to sweat the small stuff. All the work you put into wedding planning is finally paying off, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by having a great time and celebrating your commitment to each other. ","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_InvitesPaper"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Explore Wedding Paper","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:43:24.648Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"wedding-memorial-ideas","title":"56 Unique Wedding Memorial Ideas to Honor Loved Ones ","excerpt":"Honor cherished memories at your wedding with thoughtful memorial ideas. Create a meaningful tribute to late loved ones on your special day.","publishedAt":"2020-10-18T21:51:12.753Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/jj4pJ80HF2Wd37qIBjbKR/a41d6f461480d972ee58014432e36d5b/hero_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Ways to Honor Loved Ones Who Have Passed at Your Wedding"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"Your wedding day is a joyous occasion, but it can be difficult to celebrate in the absence of a loved one. It’s completely valid to feel the weight of the loss of a cherished friend or family member even amid such a happy time, and choosing to include a meaningful moment or gesture in your wedding is a beautiful way to honor their memory. \n\nThere are many ways to pay tribute to a deceased loved one at your wedding, and how you do it is completely personal—some might favor a public commemoration, while others might prefer a more private moment. Before you decide, it’s wise to consider the appropriateness of your idea based on your unique circumstances. This includes: \n\n- The deceased person’s relationship to you and your partner \n- The date of your wedding (some memorial ideas might be difficult if the death occurred close to your wedding day) \n- The wishes of anyone close to the deceased (it’s important to discuss with anyone who might be sensitive to death) \n- Religious or cultural considerations\n\nThe best plan of action when choosing a wedding memorial idea is to discuss it with those directly involved before a decision is made. Though your intentions may be good, it’s the most considerate approach.\n\nIf you’re all on the same page, and you’re looking for unique wedding memorial ideas, browse these creative ways to honor loved ones who have passed at your wedding, or jump straight to our infographic below.\n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas for the Ceremony \n### 1. Reserve a Seat in Their Honor\nKeep your loved one’s memory close by reserving a seat for them up front in their honor. You might choose to place their photo in the seat, or another personal item that holds sentimental value. \n\n### 2. Add a Note in Your Ceremony Program \nYour wedding ceremony program is a fitting spot to include a sincere message in your loved one’s honor. This way, everyone will have a chance to read the tribute while still keeping the ceremony proceedings uplifting. \n\n### 3. Incorporate a Reading in Their Honor \nIf you’d like a more public commemoration of your loved one, including a reading in their honor at some point during the ceremony is a touching way to pay homage to their memory. The reading could be a poem, book passage, or a quote—whatever you feel is most meaningful. If you’d rather not perform the reading yourself, you can ask your priest or officiant to step in instead. \n\n### 4. Speak to Their Memory During the Ceremony\nAn alternative to including a reading in your late loved one’s honor is to simply dedicate a portion of the ceremony to sharing about their memory and what they meant to you. Rather than reading a specific quote or passage, you’ll have the chance to speak freely about your relationship with your late loved one and share directly from the heart. \n\nBe sure to consider carefully whether or not this might become too emotional, as emotions will likely already be high on your wedding day. \n\n### 5. Include a Moment of Silence \nAnother way to honor a deceased loved one publicly (without having to actually say anything if it feels too difficult to speak about) is to include a moment of silence for them at the beginning of the ceremony. Ask your priest or officiant to work this into your ceremony order and have them lead the moment of silence. \n\n### 6. Light a Candle During the Service \nCandles are a beautiful way to pay homage to late loved ones and help signify that while their physical presence is missed, they’re still there in spirit. Light a candle in their memory during your ceremony—you can work with your officiant or wedding planner for help with where to include the special moment in your order of service. \n\n### 8. Place an Item On Their Chair After Walking Down the Aisle\nIf you have an item of your late loved one that holds sentimental value, a touching way to memorialize them during your ceremony is to carry it with you as you walk down the aisle, then place it on a chair reserved for them in their honor. \n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas for the Reception \n\n### 9. Name Something After Them\nFor a sweet tribute to a late loved one, choose something at your reception to name after them—this could be anything from the bar station (“John’s Bar”) where you serve their favorite drink, or naming a single drink after them (“Grandma’s Lemonade”). \n\n### 10. Display Framed Family Photos \nDisplaying framed photos of your late loved ones is a beautiful and thoughtful way to honor them and make them a part of your special day. Frame a selection of your favorite photos, then create an installation on your [guestbook](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-guest-book-ideas) table so your guests can see and appreciate it, too. \n\n### 11. Add Their Favorite Dishes to Your Wedding Menu\nIf you’re looking for a unique wedding memorial idea with plenty of character, consider incorporating your late loved one’s favorite dishes into your wedding day menu. This might be an old family recipe or even their favorite late-night snack—whatever it is, your guests will appreciate such a thoughtful addition.\n\n### 12. Play Their Favorite Song \nIs there a particular song or artist that meant a lot to your loved one or simply reminds you of them? Use that tune or collection of tunes in your wedding reception playlist in their honor.\n\n### 13. Dedicate Your Parent Dance to Them\nIf your late loved one is related to your or your partner’s parents, dedicating your parent dance to them is a truly meaningful way to honor their memory. You can also choose to play their favorite song or pick a song that reminds you of them for the dance.\n\n### 14. Make a Toast \nIf you’re commemorating a late family member, the [reception](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-reception-timeline) is a special time to give a toast in their honor. If you don’t want to perform the toast yourself, ask a close family member or whoever is giving toasts to share a cherished memory or sentimental story in their honor.\n\n![inline unsplash 1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2thP4DFjVikjjQFS5NewhD/e842afcef590d0230691c51f09d005fc/inline_unsplash_1_.webp)\n\n### 15. Select Touching Favors \nYour wedding favors can be used as a sweet token of remembrance, and offer a unique way to leave your guests with a piece of your loved one’s memory. This could be anything from incorporating their favorite candies or choosing something you know they loved—if your late grandfather loved cigars, for example, you could send your guests home with his favorites along with a note explaining the token. \n\n### 16. Create a Memory Table in Their Honor \nReserve a designated space at your reception by setting up a table filled with framed photos, sentimental objects, and anything else that holds meaning to the person whose memory you’re honoring. \n\n### 17. Create a Memory Box\nA unique and interactive way to pay homage to late loved ones is by creating a memory box. Have a space where guests can take a card and write down their memories with your loved one for you to look back on later. Place it on your guestbook table or on a memory table if you’re creating one. \n\n### 18. Display a Remembrance Drawing \nHaving a custom illustration made is a creative way to give recognition to late loved ones at your wedding, and with so many talented illustration artists out there, it’s a chance to create something truly special to display in your loved one’s honor. If you choose to designate a seat for them at the ceremony, you might place the illustration on their chair for guests to see. \n\n### 19. Display a Plaque or Sign\nDisplaying a plaque or sign is one of the simplest ways to pay tribute to late loved ones. Have one made (or make one yourself) with a touching message in their honor. \n\n### 20. DIY a Wooden Sign\nIf you have a penchant for creating things yourself, a DIY wooden sign in honor of your late loved one is the perfect way to pay your respects. Going the DIY route also means endless possibilities in how you choose to customize your sign, which could include names, dates, and a thoughtful message. \n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas: Sentimental Symbolisms \n### 21. Incorporate a Family Heirloom \nWhether you wear your loved one’s handkerchief, wrap a symbolic rosary around your bouquet, or carry a sentimental trinket or object with you down the aisle, there are countless ways to incorporate a late loved one’s family heirloom to feel like they’re close to you on your big day. \n\n### 22. Choose a Sentimental Wedding Location\nThere are a variety of factors that go into choosing a wedding location and venue, like the time of year, number of guests, and so on. But if you’re wedding planning in the midst of losing a cherished friend or family member, you might also consider choosing a site that holds meaning to the deceased loved one. \n\n### 23. Wear Their Jewelry or Cufflinks \nAdding a piece of your late loved one’s jewelry to your wedding day ensemble or sporting their cufflinks with your suit is a beautiful way to keep them close to your heart for each moment of your big day. That way, you’ll always wear your loved one with you, from the ceremony until the day comes to an end. \n\n### 24. Light a Candle in Their Honor\nCandles are an excellent way to symbolize that a late loved one’s memory still burns bright in your heart, even if they’re physically absent. If you’d rather not light a candle publicly during your wedding ceremony, choose a private moment to light a candle in their honor instead. It could be on the morning of your wedding day while you get ready, or with close friends and family directly after the ceremony. \n\n### 22. Pin Their Photo to Your Attire \nFor a sweet and subtle way to keep your late loved one close to you on your wedding day, place a small photo of them in an ornamental case like a locket, and pin it to your attire. You can choose if you want the photo to be outwardly visible, or you can place it somewhere more discreet so only you and your partner know it’s there. \n\n### 25. Add Their Photo to Your Bouquet \nAn alternative to pinning a photo of your loved one to your attire is to add their photo to your bouquet so you can keep them close as you walk down the aisle. Simply add their photo to a heart-shaped locket or small charm and affix it to your bouquet. \n\n### 26. Incorporate Their Favorite Flowers \nSurround yourself with your late loved one’s memory by incorporating their favorite blooms into your [floral decor](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/decor-inspiration/flowers/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers). You might use their favorite flowers in your bouquet, or use them to adorn your reception tables. You can also simply choose to incorporate flowers and plants that symbolize remembrance, like statice, rosemary, pansies, and gladiolus. \n\n![inline unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4h6kKpstWY2mNfkK97mz51/0ebd6fa561976b54b97d86e22565baac/inline_unsplash.webp)\n\n### 27. Incorporate a Special Motif \nFinding ways to incorporate your late loved one’s memory on your wedding day doesn’t have to be done traditionally. For example, maybe they weren’t fond of flowers, but they really loved butterflies. In that case, you might incorporate butterflies into your decor or favors. Anything that holds meaning to you and your late loved one can be woven into whatever part of your wedding you choose—don’t be afraid to get creative. \n\n### 28. Sew a Memory of Them Into Your Attire \nTake pinning a trinket or photo to your attire a step further by having a memory of your loved one sewn into your wedding day attire, such as a cutting of their shirt or a small monogram. Bring your idea to your seamstress for their input on how to best incorporate it into your suit or dress. \n\n### 29. Wear a Piece of Their Wedding Attire \nIf your late loved one was an older family member, a truly personal way to pay homage to their legacy is by sporting a piece of their wedding attire in your own wedding day outfit. This could mean going all out and wearing their wedding dress as your own, or simply incorporating a single piece, like their veil or tie. \n\n### 30. Set Aside a Private Moment \nIf you’d rather not put on a public display in remembrance of your late friend or family member, set aside some time for a private moment at some point during the wedding instead—either with close friends and family who knew them or even with just you and your partner. This allows for a moment of stillness amid the hustle and bustle of the big day in which you can have the chance to pay your respects privately. \n\n### 31. Request Donations to Their Favorite Charity \nUphold the memory of your late loved one by requesting donations to a special charity that mattered to them in lieu of a [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry). Alternatively, instead of providing wedding favors, you might consider making the donation yourself. Create a sign at the guestbook table indicating your donation in place of favors, along with a note detailing the significance of what the charity meant to your friend or family member. \n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas: Quotes and Readings \nThe quotes and readings below can help you add a more personal touch to any wedding memorial signs, speeches, or readings in honor of loved ones no longer with you on your wedding day. \n\n### Memorial Quotes\n32. “As you were you will always be, treasured forever in our memory.” –Unknown\n33. 31. “In the hearts of those who loved you, you will always be there.” –Unknown\n34. “Forever remembered, forever missed.” –Unknown\n35. “May the winds of heaven blow softly, and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you, and wish that you were here.” –Unknown \n36. “Life has to end. Love doesn’t.” –Mitch Albom\n37. “The song has ended, but the melody lingers on.” –Irving Berlin\n38. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” –Irish proverb\n39. “Only a moment you stayed, but what an imprint your footprints have left on our hearts.” –Dorothy Ferguson\n40. “Gone yet not forgotten, although we are apart, your spirit lives within me, forever in my heart.” –Unknown\n41. “Your life was our blessing, and you shall never be forgotten.” –Unknown\n42. “Every life is noted and is cherished, and nothing loved is ever lost or perished.” –Madeleine L’Engle\n43. “And they all said, ‘I’m sorry for your loss,’ as if you were someone who could ever be taken from me.” –Robert Brault\n44. “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” –Winnie the Pooh\n45. “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” –Helen Keller\n46. “There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” –Gandhi\n47. “Death is nothing else but going home to God, the bond of love will be unbroken for all eternity.” –Mother Teresa\n\n### Memorial Readings\n\n### 48. William Wordsworth Reading\n“And when the stream that overflows has passed, a consciousness remains upon the silent shore of memory,\nImages and precious thoughts that shall not be and cannot be destroyed.” \n\n–William Wordsworth, The Excursion\n\n### 49. There Is No Light Without a Dawning Reading\nNo winter without a spring\nAnd beyond the dark horizon\nOur hearts will once more sing ….\nFor those who leave us for a while\nHave only gone away\nOut of a restless, care worn world\nInto a brighter day\n\n–Helen Steiner Rice\n\n### 50. Our Memories Build a Special Bridge Reading\nWhen loved ones have to part\nTo help us feel we’re with them still\nAnd soothe a grieving heart\nThey span the years and warm our lives\nPreserving ties that bind\nOur memories build a special bridge\nAnd bring us peace of mind\n\n–Emily Mathews\n\n### 51. Irish Blessing Reading\nMay the roads rise up to meet you,\nMay the wind be always at your back,\nMay the sun shine warm upon your face,\nMay the rains fall soft upon fields\nAnd until we meet again\nMay God hold you in the palm of his hand.\n\n–Irish Proverb\n\n### 52. Life Can Never Stay the Same Reading\nLife can never stay the same\nNo matter how we try\nOur hands can never stop\nThe clock of life from ticking by\nBut love remains, unchanging\nIn the care of sorrowing hearts\nFor as the love of life is stilled\nThe love of memory starts.\n\n–Unknown\n\n### 53. Turn Again to Life Reading\nIf I should die and leave you here a while,\nBe not like others sore undone,\nWho keep long vigil by the silent dust.\nFor my sake turn again to life and smile,\nNerving thy heart and trembling hand to do\nSomething to comfort other hearts than thine.\nComplete these dear unfinished tasks of mine\nAnd I perchance may therein comfort you. \n\n–Mary Lee Hall\n\n### 54. If I Should Die Before the Rest of You Reading\nIf I should die before the rest of you\nBreak not a flower nor inscribe a stone\nNor, when I’m gone, speak in a Sunday voice,\nBut be the usual selves that I have known.\nWeep if you must\nParting is hell.\nBut life goes on.\nSo sing as well.\n\n–Joyce Grenfell\n\n### 55. Not How Did He Die, But How Did He Live? Reading\nNot, how did he die, but how did he live?\nNot, what did he gain, but what did he give?\nThese are the units to measure the worth\nOf a man as a man, regardless of his birth.\nNor what was his church, nor what was his creed?\nBut had he befriended those really in need?\nWas he ever ready, with words of good cheer,\nTo bring back a smile, to banish a tear?\nNot what did the sketch in the newspaper say,\nBut how many were sorry when he passed away?\n\n–Anonymous\n\n### 56. Intimations of Immortality Reading\nWhat though the radiance which was once so bright\nBe now forever taken from my sight,\nThough nothing can bring back the hour\nOf splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower;\nWe will grieve not, rather find\nStrength in what remains behind.\n\n–William Wordsworth\n\n\n![wedding-memorial-ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1jzPxkqkpzd2pVgDLzEfkp/cb21b39a2d359c02b345356af0a79883/wedding-memorial-ideas.png)\n","tag":"How-To ","updatedAt":"2025-03-14T18:47:31.753Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"how-long-do-wedding-photos-take","title":"A Guide to the Ideal Wedding Photography Timeline","excerpt":"Your wedding photos are an important part of your big day. Learn more about how to plan a timeline that ensures you will have plenty of time to get the photos you want.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-01-20T21:53:59.472Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6YSGQJgdXFs7GGnLAdB0JC/b42c6028988e7ad383c57eafef3c00dd/Hero_Zola_02.jpg","altText":"How Long Do Wedding Photos Take"},"heroCredit":"Zola","body":"Throughout your [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/), you’ve probably put together a timeline of events for your wedding day. You’ve figured out when to start getting ready in the morning, when to leave for the venue, how long the ceremony will take, and when you will be announced to your guests at the reception. But have you incorporated a timeline for your photos to ensure you get all the shots you want? \n\nMany couples don’t realize how much time is needed to get wedding photos that look effortlessly beautiful. So, how long do wedding photos take? Let’s take a closer look at the details of your wedding photography timeline. \n\n

How to Plan Your Wedding Photos

\n\nDepending on the types of portraits you want your photographer to take ([different wedding photographers have different styles](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos)!), it will probably take you at least two hours to get all the shots. However, the good news is that the photos usually aren’t taken all at once, and the time is broken up throughout your day.\n\nMost photographers say you need about 30 minutes for wedding party portraits, 30 minutes for family portraits (close family only), and 45 minutes for couple portraits. Just remember: These timeframes can contract or expand, depending on the size of your wedding party and family, as well as the specific types of shots you want. For specifics, speak to your wedding photographer about how long they’ll need to take all the different shots you have in mind, plus how you might be able to save time. Here are some of the details you should consider as you plan the photos you want. \n\n

1. Pick Who You’ll Include in Formal Portraits

\n\n![How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? | Zola](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6I2KiXD8d9GuSXE3jwqoXS/0e1ec004961a149e27003cd624f4d90c/inline_unsplash17.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nOf course, the focus of your wedding photos will be you and your spouse. However, you will probably want to have formal portraits taken of you with your wedding party, as well as [family wedding photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). Deciding who you will include in this session can significantly impact how long your wedding photos will take. Your parents may try to convince you that you should have a formal portrait with all of your relatives, but remember that the more photos you take, the longer you will be kept away from your celebration. A good rule of thumb is to keep formal portraits limited to about 15 different groupings, including your wedding party, immediate family, and possibly a few important relatives. To help you make this decision, your photographer may be able to provide you with a list of suggested formal portrait groupings, so you know [how to edit wedding photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer) based on your needs. \n\n

2. Decide If You’ll Do a “First Look”

\n\n![How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? | Zola](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6uVnMhM1d3mlXyhe9PX49q/1549b1156768118b6061ca133f0bba66/inline_unsplash18.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nAn increasingly popular photo that couples are choosing to incorporate is a “first look.” [The first look wedding photo](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos) This photo captures the first time the couple sees each other on their wedding day, usually wearing their wedding attire and occurring before the ceremony. \n\nMany photographers suggest this option, because it gives you the opportunity to take formal portraits before the ceremony, allowing you to enjoy the cocktail hour with your guests. If you choose the alternative—to stick with tradition and wait to see each other at the ceremony—you will likely spend your entire cocktail hour taking portraits. This choice can significantly impact your wedding photography timeline, so make sure you and your partner have come to a decision before finalizing your plans. \n\n

3. Pick Your Locations

\n\nOnce you’ve decided who’ll be in your photos and if you’ll be doing a “first look,” choose where you will be taking the photos. The most obvious and easiest locations will be your ceremony and reception venues, but you aren’t limited to these.\n\nIf the hotel where you’re getting ready has beautiful scenery, you might decide to have some portraits taken there, such as the bridal party or groomsmen photos. However, you might have other specific places of importance, like a local park or a specific neighborhood in your city. While this is definitely an option, you will need to plan for the extra time and transportation required to travel to and from those locations on your big day. \n\n

Your Wedding Photo Timeline

\n\nAfter you’ve figured out all the details of your wedding photos, you’ll want to work with your photographer (or wedding planner) to create a fully documented schedule of your wedding day, including the timeline for your photos. And don’t forget: It’s useful to add five-minute buffers throughout the day to leave room for any last-minute changes. You will also want to include any travel time to move between locations.\n\nOnce you’ve established your timeline, make sure that anyone who will be included in photos is aware of the schedule, plus has all relevant details. The last thing you want is to be waiting on a relative to show up for photos, so encourage all your important people to stick to the timeline you give them. \n\n

Sample Timelines

\n\nTo help you out, we put together two sample wedding photo timelines (including a [wedding photo list](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-photo-list)!). The first is for a couple doing a “first look” session, while the second is for a couple going the more traditional route. Seeing these schedules next to one another may help you decide what you’d like to do for your wedding based on the impact that session can have on your overall timeline. \n\n### Timeline With First Look\n\n#### 11:45 AM - Wedding Photographer’s Arrival\nFrom a photo perspective, the day can’t start until the photographer arrives—which is why the first item on any wedding day photography timeline is the photographer’s arrival. At this point, the wedding photographer arrives on site and prepares to start snapping photos. \n\n#### 12:00 - 2:00 PM - Getting Ready Photos \nDuring the next phase, the couple is separated, getting ready for the ceremony with their wedding party. These photos are often candid. \n\nDuring this time, the wedding photographer may take a variety of shots, including:\n\n- The groom getting dressed with the groomsmen\n\n- The bride getting ready with the bridesmaids\n\n- The hair stylist creating the bride’s wedding day hairstyle\n\n- Close-ups of the makeup artist doing the bride and bridesmaids’ makeup\n\n- Detail shots (for example, rings, wedding shoes, bouquets, wedding invitations, etc.)\n\nIf the wedding photographer has a second shooter, they may split up—with each photographer taking photos of one half of the couple and their bridesmaids and/or groomsmen. \n\n__Location ideas:__ Wherever the bride and/or groom is getting ready—for example, their home, the wedding venue, or a hotel\n\n#### 2:15 - 3:00 PM - First Look and Couple Portraits\nIf a couple opts to do a first look, then the photographer will get the opportunity to shoot them pre-ceremony. [First look photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos) generally include:\n\n- Portrait sessions for both people (for example, bridal portraits and groom portraits)\n\n- The couple seeing each other in their full wedding looks for the first time\n\n- Couples portraits\n\nLocation ideas: Somewhere at or near the wedding venue—either outdoors (for example, in a garden or next to the ocean) or indoors (for example, in a hallway or underneath an entrance)\n\n#### 3:15 - 3:45 PM - Wedding Party Portraits\nAfter the first look, it’s time to tackle wedding party photos. This may include:\n\n- The bride with all of her bridesmaids\n\n- The bride with each bridesmaid\n\n- The bride with the maid of honor\n\n- The groom with all of the groomsmen\n\n- The groom with each groomsmen\n\n- The groom with his best man\n\n- The couple with the entire wedding party\n\n- The bride with her partner’s side of the wedding party\n\n- The groom with his partner’s side of the wedding party\n\n__Location ideas:__ Outside the wedding venue, at an off-site location with a scenic background\n\n#### 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Wedding Ceremony\nIt’s time to get married! During the wedding ceremony, the photographer will likely snap a variety of photos, including:\n\n- The ceremony location\n\n- Detail shots (for example, the ceremony programs, the flowers, the arbor, etc.)\n\n- Guests arriving at the ceremony start time\n\n- The wedding party walking down the aisle\n\n- Family members walking down the aisle\n\n- The bride and/or groom (or brides and grooms) walking down the aisle\n\n- The officiant\n\n- Any friends or family that share readings during the ceremony\n\n- The couple exchanging wedding vows\n\n- The couple walking down the aisle after getting married\n\n__Location ideas:__ At the ceremony site\n\n#### 5:10 - 5:40 PM - Family Portraits\nAfter the ceremony, the wedding photographer will take formal [portraits of the couple and their families](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). This may include:\n\n- The bride with her parents\n\n- The groom with his parents\n\n- The couple with one set of parents\n\n- The couple with the other set of parents\n\n- The couple with both sets of parents\n\n- The bride with her siblings\n\n- The groom with his siblings\n\n- The couple with one set of siblings\n\n- The couple with both sets of siblings\n\n- The bride with her immediate family\n\n- The groom with his immediate family\n\n- The couple with one partner’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with the other partner’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with both of their immediate families\n\n- The bride with her grandparents\n\n- The groom with his grandparents\n\n- The couple with one set of grandparents\n\n- The couple with the other set of grandparents\n\n- The couple with both sets of grandparents\n\n- Additional family photos as necessary (for example, photos with aunts, uncles, and/or cousins)\n\n__Location ideas:__ At the ceremony site, somewhere scenic/quiet at the wedding venue that’s away from cocktail hour (for example, a garden or ballroom)\n\n#### 5:10 - 6:20 PM - Cocktail Hour\nIf your wedding photographer has a second shooter, they will often snap photos during cocktail hour while the main photographer handles family photos. This may include:\n\n- Guests mingling at cocktail hour\n\n- Photos of your signature wedding cocktails\n\n- Detail shots (for example, cocktail napkins, signage and decor, etc.)\n\n__Location ideas:__ At the cocktail hour site\n\n#### 6:30 PM - Wedding Reception\nYour wedding reception is full of moments that you’ll want to turn into memories—and your wedding photographer will be on hand to ensure that happens. Some wedding reception photos your photographer will likely want to capture include:\n\n- The couple’s grand entrance\n\n- Guest table photos\n\n- The couple’s first dance\n\n- Parent dances\n\n- Toasts and speeches\n\n- Guests dancing on the dance floor\n\n- The garter toss and/or bouquet toss\n\n- Cake cutting\n\n- The couple’s exit\n\n- Detail shots (for example, centerpieces, decor, table signage, gift table, etc.)\n\n__Location ideas__: At the wedding reception site\n\n### Timeline Without First Look\n\n#### 12:00 - 2:00 PM - Getting Ready Photos\n\nSame as above\n\n#### 2:15 - 3:30 PM - Separate Wedding Party and Family Portraits \nIf a couple opts not to do a first look, the wedding photographer can’t do group photos before the ceremony—but they can do separate wedding party and/or family portraits. This may include:\n\n- The bride with her bridesmaids\n\n- The bride with each bridesmaid\n\n- The bride with her maid of honor\n\n- The bride with her parents\n\n- The bride with her siblings\n\n- The bride with her immediate family\n\n- The bride with her grandparents\n\n- The bride with any additional family as necessary (for example, aunts, uncles, or cousins)\n\n- The groom with his entire family\n\n- The groom with his groomsmen\n\n- The groom with each groomsmen\n\n- The groom with his best man\n\n- The groom with his parents\n\n- The groom with his siblings\n\n- The groom with his immediate family\n\n- The groom with his grandparents\n\n- The groom with any additional family as necessary (for example, aunts, uncles, or cousins)\n\n- The groom with her entire family\n\n#### 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Wedding Ceremony\nSame as above\n\n#### 5:15 - 6:15 PM - Couple and Group Portraits \nIf there’s no first look, the couple will take both couple’s and group portraits after the wedding ceremony. This may include:\n\n- Photos of the couple\n\n- The couple with their entire wedding party\n\n- The couple with one set of parents\n\n- The couple with the other set of parents\n\n- The couple with both sets of parents\n\n- The couple with one set of siblings\n\n- The couple with the other set of siblings\n\n- The couple with both sets of siblings\n\n- The couple with one person’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with the other person’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with both of their immediate families\n\n- The couple with one set of grandparents \n\n- The couple with the other set of grandparents\n\n- The couple with both sets of grandparents\n\n- The couple with one person’s entire family\n\n- The couple with the other person’s entire family\n\n- The couple with both of their entire families\n\n#### 5:15 - 6:20 PM - Cocktail Hour\nSame as above\n\n#### 6:30 PM - Wedding Reception\nSame as above\n\nAs you can see from the timelines above, the “first look” photos can give you more time to enjoy being with your guests after the ceremony. However, if you choose to stick to a more traditional timeline and wait to see each other at the ceremony for the first time, you will still be able to take all the photos you want. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as a couple and what works best for your wedding day.\n\n## Things To Consider When Developing Your Wedding Day Photography Timeline\nNeed more insights in to how to navigate your wedding day timeline? Here are a few things to keep in mind:\n\n- __Stick to the timeline...__ Your wedding photographer has a timeline for a reason! The timeline is created to ensure they have enough time to capture all of the shots you’ll want from your wedding day—so make their lives easier by sticking to the timeline as much as possible.\n\n- __...but also be flexible.__ Ideally, you’ll stick to your wedding photography timeline—but things happen that may throw you off course (for example, it may take you longer to get ready than you originally planned or there may be a delay in getting to your first look location). Make sure to stay flexible and allow your photographer to switch things up as necessary.\n\n- __Keep awkward moments to a minimum.__ Your wedding photographer is there to capture happy moments—not awkward ones. Think about any potential awkward interactions—and make a plan to deal with them. (For example, if you have divorced parents that can’t be in the same room, make sure to let your photographer know so she can schedule those family portraits separately.)\n\n- __Make sure to account for transportation time.__ If you’re taking photos at multiple locations, make sure to build transportation time into your timeline.\n\n- __Don’t be afraid to ask for a redo.__ If something feels off about your photography sessions—for example, you don’t like where you’re snapping your bridal party photos or the sky is too dark and cloudy for your liking—don’t be afraid to ask your photographer to either retake the photos or rethink their approach and offer other options.\n\nWhile it may be tempting to figure out your wedding photos on a whim throughout your wedding day, ensuring you get all the shots you want will require some planning. Start by deciding who you want to take photos with and where they will be taken. Then, as a couple, choose whether or not you want a “first look” photo. Work with your photographer to get a better sense of how long they need to get high-quality shots. And finally, create a detailed timeline for your wedding day, then share it with all the appropriate people. Taking these steps will ensure your big day runs smoothly, so you can enjoy being in the moment—and enjoy getting back your wedding photos after your big day. (Don’t forget to ask about turnaround time!)","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"You’ll be reminiscing on your wedding photos for years to come. These questions to ask wedding photographers will help you hire someone whose style you love!","title":"41 Questions to Always Ask Wedding Photographers","slug":"questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/vgfhrVNYXugnG7eH6LqqG/dbb3c765ebf137ed1cb3ffb07b571607/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-hero.jpg","altText":"A wedding photographer shows a couple a photo she captured of them during their photoshoot. "},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:32.400Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"affordable-rehearsal-dinner-ideas","title":"Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas","excerpt":"A rehearsal dinner should be about excitement and anticipation—not the costs. Here are cheap rehearsal dinner ideas from Zola.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-09-29T04:41:26.496Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4xVQpZoBKXEPIyxsp4Il5q/cdf04678e673b19dc6aabcfcbd2cbe3a/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Rehearsal dinners can be as elegant or as laid-back as you want them to be—and an event that allows you to let loose before your wedding day. \n- Keep your rehearsal dinner affordable by holding it at home, a public park, or another low-cost venue. \n- Book buffet-style catering or coordinate a pot-luck dinner in order to reduce food costs. Get creative with decorations by making them yourself or upcycling objects you may already have lying around your home. \n- Pick a theme for your rehearsal dinner that fits your aesthetic and allows you to decorate and cater the event without putting too much of a strain on your budget. ","body":"Bringing people together to celebrate your love doesn’t always bring the same degree of excitement to your wallet as it does to you and your partner. High costs can seem to creep up out of nowhere even for a more intimate occasion like the wedding rehearsal dinner. For a memorable night with family and friends that’s exquisite and easy on the budget, follow along. \n\nIn this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to know from rehearsal dinner basics to creative ideas that will bring radiance and spending relief. Focus more on the wedding-day walk-through and on cherishing small moments—we’ll help you take care of the rest. \n\nHere’s a closer look at what you’ll find below:\n\n- Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know\n- How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly\n- Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas\n- Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos\n- Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner\n\n## Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know \nRehearsal dinners are more than just a walk-through of the ceremony. The post-rehearsal time is an opportunity to sneak extra hugs, conversation, and dancing with your closest friends and family members. \n\nBefore handing out a few tips about how to put on an affordable event, let’s first talk a bit more about what a rehearsal dinner actually is. Who comes? When does it typically happen? Find answers to these questions and more below. \n\n- The what: A rehearsal, of course! You’ll do a general practice of the ceremony from top to bottom to coordinate details such as music, entries, and where to stand. The best part is dinner and drinks afterward with your inner circle of loved ones. \n\n- __The who:__ As wedding tradition goes, the rehearsal dinner is generally reserved for you, your partner, the wedding party, the officiant, and anyone else who may hold a spot on the ceremony program. Some couples may choose to expand the guest list to include a few more family members and friends. Talk this through with your partner to see just how big or how small you’d like to keep things. \n\n- __The where:__ That’s entirely up to you. We’ll give you a few rehearsal dinner venue ideas below, but there are no rules that dictate where exactly you should hold your rehearsal dinner. From seaside soirees to park picnics, the choice is yours.\n\n- __The when:__ Most couples opt to host their rehearsal dinner on the day before their wedding day, as this ensures that all the ceremony dos and don’ts are fresh in everyone’s minds. If you choose to do it sooner, let your wedding guests know so that they can adjust their schedules. \n\n- __The why:__ To go over last-minute details to make sure that there aren’t any hiccups on the day of your wedding. It’s also a time when you and your partner can express thanks to friends and family members for all of the time and effort that they’ve put in to help realize your wedding-day dreams. \n\nNow that you’re familiar with some of the basics, let’s talk about the budget. \n\n## How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly \nIt’s no secret that weddings can often come with a high price tag. Some couples prefer to go all out for their big day and for additional wedding-related events such as the rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunches. \n\nBut if you’re the type of duo who would prefer to keep spending low for the wedding in order to invest more in a lavish honeymoon or a new home, you’re in the right place. Just because you’d rather keep your celebration budget-friendly, doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice elegance and refinement. Cheap rehearsal dinner ideas do not equate to tacky and tawdry. \n\nHere are a few ideas to help you plan an affordable rehearsal dinner that’s both well-organized and well-polished. \n\n- __Do it at home.__ Whether it’s at your residence or a family member’s, having a backyard or patio gathering is a savvy way to avoid the high costs of booking a venue or renting out space at a restaurant. Plus, it allows you to have full control over all the details such as decor, duration of the event, and dinner choices. \n\n- __Find a low-cost venue.__ If you don’t quite have the space to host an event at home, consider another low-cost alternative such as a public beach or park. It gives you just as much freedom to decorate and tailor it to your liking without the pressure of getting your house event-ready. However, it might not be completely free, so be sure to ask about the cost of a permit and how to go about reserving the space for the date you need. \n\n- __Book a space within your price range.__ Not a fan of backyard barbecues or public park gatherings? Use the Zola Vendor Search tool to find a ready-made venue that’s within your budget. Filter through the available spaces by price, setting, and capacity to find one that works with your vision and your wallet. \n\n- __Coordinate a potluck.__ Especially if you opt for an at-home affair, you can join forces with your rockstar wedding crew and eager-to-help family members. Set up a spreadsheet with plenty of time to spare for people to sign up for different dishes. It doesn’t get much more affordable than this and you’ll probably find that people are happy to contribute in any way that they can. \n\n- __Opt for buffet-style catering.__ If you’d rather leave the cooking to the professionals, elect to hire a catering service. Ask about buffet-style dinner options since this will allow you to keep a fixed cost per person instead of opening it up for guests to order individual meals and drinks. \n\n- __Ask about your venue’s event policies.__ If you’ve reserved a date and time for your rehearsal dinner at a hotel or restaurant, ask them to be upfront with you about the total costs. You’ll need to pay the rental fee for the locale, of course, but it would be important to find out if there are any minimum spending requirements for food and drinks.\n\n- __Ask a creative friend for a favor.__ You’ve already booked a photographer for your wedding day but you’d like to get a few snaps of you, your partner, and your crew at the rehearsal dinner too. See if one of your friends who’s got an eye for photography wouldn’t mind documenting a few special moments throughout the night. They might offer to do so free of charge, but consider thanking them for their efforts with a bottle of wine or a gift card to their favorite eatery. \n\n- __Opt for handmade decorations.__ The internet is chock-full of good ideas for DIY decorations. You might be surprised to find that most projects are fairly easy to succeed at too, so you won’t need to be a master crafter to pull it off. From upcycled picture frames and shutters to wood-burned coasters, the sky’s the limit when it comes to handmade, budget-friendly decor. \n\nNow that you’ve packed your brainstorm list to the brim with affordable rehearsal dinner ideas, let’s see how you can pull them all together. Get your creative juices flowing a bit more in the next section where we’ll help you tie your ideas together into a charming and cohesive rehearsal dinner theme. \n\n## Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas \nNot quite sure where to start when it comes to choosing a theme for your rehearsal dinner? Sometimes all you need are a few ideas to help nudge you in the right creative direction. Get some inspiration from the following and feel free to adapt them to fit your own unique vision. \n\n- __Piazza pizza party –__ Look to Venice, Italy for your inspiration for this budget-friendly theme. Decorate your back patio with lights, greenery, and maybe even a small garden fountain to channel the aesthetic of an Italian piazza. For dinner? Pizza, of course! It’s always a crowd favorite and something that’s quick and easy to put together. It feeds a number of people, too, so getting it catered by a local ristorante shouldn’t run up a high bill. Set up a gelato bar for dessert and include a station for guests to add their own toppings. \n\n- __Backyard barbecue –__ If you’d rather opt for a more casual theme, take advantage of backyard space for some grilling and lawn games. The venue is free, of course, and it will give you and your crew a chance to be comfortable and informal before having to dress to the nines on the following day. Coordinate a potluck, if you want, and include some classic homestyle dishes such as macaroni and cheese or potato salad to pair with the barbecue burgers and kebabs. \n\n- __Parisian charcuterie picnic (aka grown-up Lunchables) –__ Save yourself some time with a simple, yet classy charcuterie spread. Take a quick trip to your local bulk store (think Costco or Sam’s Club) to pick up an assortment of deli meats, pre-sliced cheeses, crackers, and bread for a delectable, self-serve rehearsal dinner. You can also purchase plenty of fruit and veggie plates for a balanced meal. \n\nAdd a few checkered tablecloths and some tapered candles in wine bottles, and you’ll have a little taste of Paris the night before your big day. \n\n## Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos\nSince you’ve been planning your wedding, you’re probably no stranger to lists by now. The number of to-dos that pile up for wedding day details can be a bit overwhelming at times. \n\nKeep everything in order and in one place by customizing your task list at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist). Plus, our app is designed to send you notifications whenever a deadline is approaching. The good news? You can use this handy tool for your rehearsal dinner checklist, too. \n\nNot sure where to begin when it comes to prioritizing tasks? Here’s a list of things to get you started down the aisle on the right foot. \n\n- __Set up a budget –__ You might already have a budget set for the wedding day itself, but it’s a good idea to make another one for your rehearsal dinner too. Even though you’re catering to a smaller crowd, costs for food, decorations, and wedding party gifts can add up quickly. Work out with your partner and your families how much you’re willing to spend, and then do your best to adhere to it. \n\n- __Decide who to invite –__ As we mentioned before, this event is typically reserved for your closest family members, your wedding crew, and anyone playing a part in the ceremony itself. Feel free to do things your own way by opening it up to plus-ones or a few extended family members. However, just be mindful of how that might affect the budget before doing so. Another idea is to keep the dinner to just your inner circle, and then open a space up later in the night for more guests to stop by for mingling and a few pre-wedding day cocktails. \n\n \n- __Pick a theme that works with your wedding style –__ Modern and formal? Or, vintage and bohemian? Your rehearsal dinner can be a design extension of your wedding day and an opportunity to weave in a few recurring motifs throughout the entire weekend. Or, you can change things up completely by hosting a dinner with its own unique style and personality. If the wedding day is a black-tie affair, perhaps you’d prefer a casual beachfront barbecue for your rehearsal dinner. Whatever you decide, use the theme as a base from which all other details will extend. \n\n- __Choose and book the venue –__ If budget consciousness is a priority for you, picking a venue can be an opportunity to save big or not. Even for small groups, some [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) may cost a pretty penny just to reserve the space and could even require a minimum tab for food and drinks. An at-home event won’t cost you anything to book the space, of course, but it may require more investment in details such as decorations and floral arrangements. Decide what’s most important to you in an event space and give yourself plenty of time to book in advance. \n\n- __Coordinate catering –__ If you’ve chosen a restaurant or a hotel function hall, you might not even need to give catering much of a second thought. These spaces are well-oiled machines when it comes to hosting events and probably already have menu options and in-house catering services ready to go. If you’ll be celebrating at a park or at home, you and your partner will have to work out these details yourselves. Shop around to find something that satisfies your flavor palette and budget, or consider cooking a few dishes yourself. \n\n- __Send out the invitations –__ Pardon the obvious, but if you’re hosting an event your guests will need to know where to go and what time to be there. Your wedding party is probably already expecting a pre-wedding walk-through as part of their duties, but be sure to clue them in on the details of the dinner and the rehearsal itself so they can add it to their schedule. Consider coordinating [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) to match the theme of your dinner. A few floral accents would be well-suited for a garden party, or you can establish elegance with a gold metallic foil. \n\n- __Create a playlist –__ You don’t necessarily need to book a DJ or a band for your rehearsal dinner (unless you want to, of course) but some background music for mealtime and mingling could be a nice touch. Curate a playlist to your liking for an at-home affair or check with your venue to see if you’re able to provide your own music. If you’ve got a family or friend who is musically inclined, you might consider asking them to play a few songs for a laid-back dinner—complete with sing-alongs and dancing. \n\n- __Include a few fun activities –__ You and your guests are there to take care of the logistics before the big day, but don’t forget to have fun, too. Beyond dinner and drinks, consider adding a few games and activities to let loose the night before your ceremony. Lawn games and Jenga are always a hit. Or, you can encourage people to get creative by setting up a DIY table for crafting or scrapbooking. \n\n- __Say thank you and enjoy the company –__ This will likely be your last event with family and friends as an unmarried couple. Soak in those moments with the people who have come from near and far to rally behind your love story before the wild ride of married life takes off. Consider taking this opportunity to send out a thank you to them too. A handwritten note is a simple, heartfelt gesture; or, shop for a few small gifts that your wedding party will be able to have as a keepsake for years to come. \n\nWhen it comes to weddings our well never runs dry. Stay tuned for more rehearsal dinner hacks in the section below. \n\n## Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner \nFeeling just about ready to dive into the planning part of your rehearsal dinner? Before you go, let’s send you off with a few more tips and tricks to ensure a smooth and stylish soiree. Add this advice to your checklist for you to come back to whenever you need a reminder. \n\n- __Don’t forget to keep an eye on mother nature.__ Some weather is unpredictable, but keep tabs on the forecast in the days leading up to your rehearsal dinner in case you need to make any last-minute adjustments. \n\n- __Incorporate a taste of the town.__ Whether you’re celebrating in your backyard or in an upscale restaurant, pay attention to what makes this part of the world different from others. Include some local flavors made famous in that region or any seasonal treats that are hard to find elsewhere. \n\n- __Let your wedding guests know the best way to dress.__ Being clear about attire is important, especially for your rehearsal dinner. If you have any activities planned that require a change of clothes, give the invitees a heads-up so that they can pack accordingly. Additionally, if you’ve opted for a laid-back get-together, tell your friends and family that it’s okay to keep it casual. \n\n- __If you’re hosting at home, be sure to give your attendees clear instructions about how to arrive.__ Particularly if your home or the event space is located in a remote area where cell service is sparse, be in touch with them ahead of time in order to avoid losing a friend down a country back road. \n\n## Design Your Dream Rehearsal Dinner at Zola \nThe rehearsal dinner may just seem like one more thing you have to plan on top of your wedding day, but given the right tools and tricks, it can actually be quite easy and fun. Especially, when you let [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) help you take care of the essentials. \n\nHere at the hub of all things wedding related we believe in:\n\nHelping you celebrate your love through every step of the [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) process.\n\nSharing the news of your wedding day and the details of your love story on your very own, easy-to-customize [free wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website).\n\nConnecting you with the right florists, photographers, and other [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to bring each piece of the planning puzzle together into one picture-perfect event.\n\nYour rehearsal dinner is already starting to take shape. Keep molding the magic right here at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/).","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:45.440Z"}],"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day","description":"Advice to make your wedding day go smoothly from start to finish. From ceremony timelines to wedding favor ideas to writing your vows, our experts help you plan the perfect wedding day."},"topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101","description":"Your complete guide to wedding planning from start to finish. Get practical advice and insider tips for planning your dream wedding from staying within your budget to creating your gift registry to all the little details in between saying \"Yes!\" and \"I do\". Find answers to all your wedding planning questions here.","subtopics":[{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Real weddings","slug":"real-weddings","description":"Learn from real couples as they break down exactly how they planned and budgeted for their weddings. Find weddings similar to what you're planning and get inspired by these weddings across a varitey of locations and budgets."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Creating a budget","slug":"creating-a-budget"},"slug":"how-to-set-your-wedding-budget","title":"How to Set Your Wedding Budget Step by Step","excerpt":"While it may not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, setting your wedding budget is essential. We’ll break down the typical expenses, guide you through the entire process from start to finish, and tell you where you can save money. ","publishedAt":"2024-10-02T08:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XhGxWHyRGrUPWWVgkBzic/91d8435955228875ec57fdf5f974f5bc/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Green/bluescale image of jar of money tipped over with change spilling out"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","tldr":"__Inside this Article:__\n\n- What is a good budget for a wedding?\n- What is a realistic wedding budget?\n- Wedding budget breakdown and cost-saving tips\n- Things to consider when setting your wedding budget\n- Wedding budget mistakes to avoid\n- Use Zola’s calculator for budgeting","body":"When you’re enjoying being [newly engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/relationship-advice/newly-engaged-couples), the last thing you want to think about is your wedding budget. In fact, almost half of all [Zola couples report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2024) that setting and sticking to a budget was the most stressful part of wedding planning. \n\nWe can’t promise you a completely stress-free experience leading up to your wedding day. However, we can help you avoid financial headaches as much as possible by tackling one of the most confusing questions for many couples: how to set your wedding budget. And Zola has answers.\n\n## What is a good budget for a wedding? \n\nThe [average wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding#) is $30,000. If that seems high, don’t panic. There are hundreds of ways to whittle that cost down to size. Plus, some people who have micro-weddings spend as little as $500 on their wedding and still enjoy a picture-perfect day. The cost of your wedding day is really up to you. \n\n## What is a realistic wedding budget? \n\nDetermining how much to spend on each part of your wedding costs isn’t exactly simple, as wedding costs vary by location and time of year. That said, there are a few straightforward steps you can take to help you get.\n\nMany couples ask, \"Is $10,000 a good wedding budget?\" The answer is: It depends. If you're having a backyard wedding with simple florals and catering, that amount is feasible. However, if you want to get married at an upscale hotel or winery, some wedding venues charge $10,000 just for rental. \n\nA realistic wedding budget is one that works for you and your partner, the size of your guest list, and the type of big day you envision.\n\n__Expert Advice:__ Easily set and keep track of your wedding budget from anywhere: try Zola’s [free budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) with payment reminders and tips on how much to spend.\n\n![Wedding Couple Bride Groom](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1ygQJ8Ljpvvun4siEqtyEX/63898622d16e45e9fb6fbf75feaad09c/Wedding_Couple_Bride_Groom.jpg) Photo by [Trulove Studios](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/jerrell-trulove-photography)\n\n## Wedding budget breakdown and cost-saving tips \n\nIt’s important to note that wedding expenses and wedding budgets are extremely individual—it’s part of what makes researching all things ‘wedding budget’ so frustrating. Here’s how most couples divide up their wedding budget breakdown. (Note that this totals over 100%, as not everyone will include every category in their wedding expenses).\n\n### Wedding venue: 24% \n\nWhat is the biggest expense in a wedding? Typically the venue, but you can save money on your venue a few different ways:\n\n- __Choose off-peak days and times.__ Saturday is the most popular day of the week for weddings and therefore almost always the most expensive. Consider a Friday evening or Sunday or, if it won’t wreck plans for your nearest and dearest, another weekday. \n- __Consider less popular seasons.__ This depends on where in the world you’re planning on tying the knot. Generally, winter months are more affordable than summer months. \n- __Look for all-inclusive packages.__ Particularly if you’re having a destination wedding, some wedding venues will offer [all-inclusive packages](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/all-inclusive-wedding-venues-pros-and-cons). Generally, this includes food and drink packages which can help save costs on a big expense. \n\nFind the [perfect wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues) on Zola’s marketplace.\n\n### Catering: 18%\n\nThe easiest avenue to saving money on your catering is to opt for a buffet rather than a sit-down meal. You can also look into a morning or afternoon wedding, as brunch, breakfast, or lunch packages tend to be cheaper (and less alcohol-focused!) than late afternoon or evening weddings. Your guest list size will also be a factor. You’ll need more food for a 100-person wedding versus one with only 20. \n\nSearch for a [caterer that fits your wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering) on Zola.\n\n### Photography: 7%\n\nWe’ll be honest: if there’s one area you shouldn’t skimp on when wedding planning, it’s your photography. After all, there’s nothing more crushing than looking back at photos from your special day that aren’t up to scratch. However, if you’re looking to cut costs, see if anyone in your personal network can offer a reduced photography fee as a wedding present to you and your partner. \n\nFind [professional wedding photographers on Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers).\n\n### Videography: 5%\n\nNot every couple includes videography in their wedding planning budget. If you’re trying to cut costs, leave this one out altogether. Or, see if you can find a student or amateur videographer (as long as you’ve got photography from a pro!)\n\nSeach your area for qualified [videographers on Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers).\n\n### Flowers: 8%\n\nYou’ll need to be strategic if you’re hoping to restrict your wedding budget with your flowers. A few of the best ways include choosing seasonal blooms, bulking out your bouquets with greenery and foliage, choosing single-bloom bouquets, and looking for local or wholesale florists. You can also just opt for artificial flowers if you’re on a tight wedding budget. \n\n[Find florists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists) within your budget on our marketplace.\n\n![Floral Ceremony Ring](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Jjd5WN7eWGMYYa4oWt7q0/141d2678e1f8dcbce518df5dcc76bd1a/Floral_Ceremony_Ring.jpg) Photo via [Belle of the Ball Designs\n](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/belle-of-the-ball-designs)\n### Entertainment: 9%\n\nChoose a band or DJ rather than both. Or, to cut costs even more, ask someone musically-minded in your network to put together a wedding soundtrack that you can play yourself. If you know you want some kind of live entertainment, limit the hours they’ll play, book far in advance, and consider local artists who won’t have to charge transport fees. \n\n[Choose a band or a DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs) from Zola’s list of vendors.\n\n### Hair and makeup: 2%\n\nOne of the best ways to save money on your hair and makeup? Do them yourself or enlist a friend’s help. If you’re looking for pro support, look into beauty schools (students are often super talented and have a great range of tools) or look for mobile stylists. When it comes to the actual work, choose simple styles rather than overly elaborate designs. \n\n[Find hair and makeup stylists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup) within your budget on Zola.\n\n### Cake and/or dessert: 2%\n\nFor starters, opt for something fun like a donut wall or dessert bar rather than a sit-down dessert. Cakes with fewer layers tend to be less expensive than those with multiple tiers. Buttercream is cheaper than fondant, and common flavors are usually cheaper and more accessible than unique ingredients. The “naked cake” trend is another popular way to save money here. \n\nSearch for [cake and dessert bakers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/florida--wedding-cakes-desserts) here. \n\n### Officiant: 1%\n\nIf you have a close friend or family member who's comfortable speaking in public, you could ask them to officiate your wedding. In many places, they can become ordained online for free or at low cost, although you'll want to check local and state laws first. \n\nSome couples choose to have a simple civil ceremony at the courthouse or city hall. The fees for these services are usually a fair bit lower than hiring a separate officiant.\n\n### Stationery: 3%\n\nThe easiest way to save money on your wedding stationery (save the dates, wedding invitations, thank you cards) is to go digital, and Zola has several [digital wedding stationery options](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/digital/save-the-date/shop). If that’s not to your taste, opt for standard-size envelopes, print in bulk, design the stationery yourself (check out our popular [DIY wedding invites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/afe11498-7506-4d03-b30f-d7a024c91afa)), and use simple designs that don’t require fancy embellishments. \n\n![Wedding Stationery Flatlay](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/54AYbXAzPqPLxPrm7OmPVw/3a64000eced02331b2affdc2f2ba9115/Wedding_Stationery_Flatlay.jpg) Photo by [Candace Shiflet Photo](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/candace-shiflet-photo)\n\n### Wedding attire: 7%\n\nDon’t feel like you have to spend thousands on a wedding outfit for your special day. David's Bridal, Lulus, ASOS, and Azazie all offer great options at lower prices. You can also consider renting your [wedding dress](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/fashion-beauty/wedding-dresses) from brands like Rent the Runway. \n\nWhen it comes to [accessories](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop-accessories), skip the bridal stores and head straight to your favorite fashion brands. Look for white (or your chosen color) accessories without the wedding mark-up. \n\n### Wedding planner: 6%\n\nA wedding planner is totally optional. But if you’re prioritizing one in your wedding budget, consider a “day of” or a \"month of” planner rather than full-service wedding planning. We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know when it comes to [choosing a wedding planner in this article](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-planner). \n\n### Rentals: 5%\n\nYou’ve already ticked the budget-friendly box by renting rather than buying certain elements of your wedding. There are rental options for pretty much anything you might need for your wedding besides edible items. From vintage tableware and lounge seating to attire and silk florals, you can rent just about anything nowadays.\n\n### Transportation: 2%\n\nWhile no one expects you to hop on the bus to your wedding venue, there are still a few easy ways you can cut costs. Instead of renting multiple vehicles, consider using a single, larger vehicle for the bridal party or immediate family. \n\nOr, if you’ve got friends or family members with stylish cars, ask if you can borrow (or rent) their vehicle for your wedding day. If you have a large group to transport from A to B (like the ceremony venue to the reception), it's worth looking into shuttles rather than paying for individual cars. Check out our article on [wedding transportation](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-transportation-101), for more details.\n\n## Things to consider when setting your wedding budget \n\nNow you’re equipped with everything you need to know regarding saving money on your wedding, cost by cost. But don’t forget the admin side of things, too. \n\n### 1. Determine who's contributing\n\nFigure out who pays for the wedding and what each person or couple contributes. Many couples pay for the wedding themselves, while some couples’ families cover all or some of the expenses. See our guide on [who pays for the wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/who-should-pay-for-wedding#:~:text=As%20is%20often%20seen%20with,wedding%20costs%20on%20their%20own.) for a full breakdown of the best ways to broach the subject of asking for wedding budget contributions.\n\n### 2. Finalize your numbers\n\nOnce you know who is chipping in and how much they’ll be adding to the budget, it’s time to finalize your totals. \n\nTo determine your total wedding budget, add together how much each person is contributing. It sounds simple, but there are a few mistakes that some couples make during this wedding budget breakdown stage:\n\n- Assuming that family and/or friends can or will contribute without discussing it with them first.\n- Factoring in lines of credit, such as credit cards or loans, rather than creating a budget based on readily available funds like cash, savings, and income. \n\n__Pro Tip:__ Never acquire more wedding debt than you can repay within a few months.\n\n![Wedding Venue Brick Walls Indoor](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PaVSKVnBrmjx3UPUP6Mdn/8d37f18415e75cb20e867ee7ab5b1015/Wedding_Venue_Brick_Walls_Indoor.jpg) Photo via [Melrose Knitting Mill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/melrose-knitting-mill)\n\n### 3. Do your research\n\nAfter you have finalized your totals, we recommend researching typical wedding costs in your wedding location to figure out how much you can expect to spend on wedding vendors specific to your area.\n\nRemember, beautiful weddings are planned on budgets of all sizes every year, so don’t get discouraged if prices are more than you initially expected. \n\nThere is always [room to negotiate](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-negotiate-with-wedding-vendors).\n\n### 4. Prioritize your spending\n\nYour research should give you a sense of what to expect and will help you set your priorities for your wedding. Sit down with your partner to discuss your visions for the day and what vendors and details are most important to you both. \n\nFor example, if a packed dance floor is one of your goals, consider setting aside a larger portion of your budget for a great live band or DJ. Keep your vision in mind as you plan, and use it as a guide when deciding when to splurge and when to save.\n\nTo help set your priorities, here’s a great exercise for you and your partner to do:\n\n*Answer the questions below individually at first, then come together to discuss why you each chose your answers and to reach an agreement on your mutual priorities.*\n\n1. What is my ideal engagement length (1 year, 6 months, etc.)?\n2. What is my ideal number of guests?\n3. What is my ideal wedding location (city, state, country)?\n4. What is my ideal wedding season?\n5. What is my ideal wedding ceremony and/or wedding reception environment (indoor, beach, church, etc.)?\n6. What is my ideal wedding dress code (black tie, casual, cocktail, etc.)?\n7. What is my ideal wedding budget?\n8. What is my ideal wedding vibe (laid-back, formal, intimate, etc.)?\n9. What is my ideal wedding theme or style (glam, boho, rustic, etc.)?\n10. What are three things I want my wedding to include (lots of dancing, great food, beautiful invitations, etc.)?\n11. What vendors do I not want to go without (videographer, wedding planner, etc.)?\n12. How do I want my guests to feel at the wedding (entertained, loved, excited, etc.)?\n13. What details do I want to prioritize for the biggest portions of the wedding budget (wedding flowers such as bouquets and centerpieces, reception venue, etc.)?\n14. What details, if any, am I interested in DIYing?\n15. Who would be my ideal pick to officiate the wedding?\n16. What do I want to do for wedding favors and gifts for the wedding party?\n17. Would I prefer an open or cash bar (or something else)?\n\n## Wedding budget mistakes to avoid \n\nThe following are a handful of budgeting mistakes you should look for as you navigate budget and [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/). Getting ahead of them now means you won’t have to handle them later.\n\n### Setting aside less money than needed\n\nIt’s better to save more money than you believe you’ll need than to set aside too little and think you’ll ultimately be okay. Even if you might be, certain expenses can catch you off guard up until and even through your big day. Prepare not just for what’s needed—but that and then some, just in case.\n\n### Spending money without keeping expense records\n\nIt becomes difficult to stick to a wedding budget when you aren’t vigilant about tracking expenses. When you agree to an expense or purchase something, put the total spent into your wedding records. Keep this current and reflect often on how much you’ve spent and how much wedding money you have left.\n\n![Outdoor Fall Wedding Bride and Groom Lauughing](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1i1AXczOwlbL4WGGbvVcms/3fb34efd89653312feb8a07d3c0f628f/Outdoor_Fall_Wedding_Bride_and_Groom_Lauughing.jpg) Photo by [Rock & Love Weddings](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/rockandloveweddings)\n\n### Not considering the extras in your budget\n\nThere are a number of things you might not initially consider when creating your budget, from little things like linens, ceremony programs, and your marriage license to larger items, such as wedding attire, gratuities, and your rehearsal dinner. Up front, take the time to create an exhaustive list of everything you might spend money on to avoid overlooking anything. \n\n### Not saving for emergency purchases\n\nAlongside miscellaneous spending, you need to include an emergency purchases budget amount. This allocated money can be put toward just about anything leading up to your wedding, from forgotten and needed expenses to actual emergencies. Not accounting for this from the beginning can eventually put you in a difficult situation.\n\n### Not using any rewards program you may have access to\n\nIf possible, we highly recommend putting expenses on a rewards credit card you’re familiar with and understand. Ideally, you can put charges on this card, immediately pay them off, and then utilize the rewards points towards things like your honeymoon.\n\n## Use Zola’s calculator for budgeting \n\nIf you’re having—or anticipate having—trouble keeping track of your expenses, try using our [wedding budget calculator](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget). In the Zola app, simply tap on “start budgeting.” This will take you to a fully customizable budget sheet you can update throughout your wedding planning. No stress, no mysterious expenses.\n\nNow that you know how to budget for a wedding, you may have other questions. That's where Zola's [expert advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice) section can help. From [getting engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/getting-engaged) to planning your [honeymoon](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/honeymoons), we have tons of advice at your fingertips. ","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors like size, shape, & decor. Read our guide to gain insights on the average cost of a wedding cake this year.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cake Cost in 2025?","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ywuArPikb1BsvjvYzDQhn/24f27696b854c3c5a22eed69292c6c4b/Guide-to-Wedding-Cake-Costs-and-Price.jpg","altText":"Graphic of pink wedding cake with heart cake topper and price tag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Confused on how much to tip wedding vendors, which vendors to tip, and when to distribute tips? Fear not: explore our guide for tipping wedding vendors.","title":"How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors","slug":"a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/oljNU6JIHuglslJ7ouSRO/c09c8646dad52d410abed69adbc51a28/lovesome-photography.webp","altText":"how much to tip wedding vendors and venue coordinator"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"A wedding registry is a personalized collection of gifts that an engaged couple has specifically chosen for their guests to shop from in order to make the wedding gifting experience simpler, easier, and more satisfying for everyone.","title":"What Is a Registry (And Why Do You Need One)?","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-registry","topic":"Registry & gifts","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MOrWgRKcg82A4y64i24iG/4449d94511192d74050b3418c02d3ec6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding gifts from a Zola registry including copper Kitchen Aid stand mixer, Le Creuset turquoise ramekins, and a copper Vitamix blender"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn the how-to's of wedding invitation wording, plus formal and casual wedding invitation examples from the experts.","title":"Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide","slug":"how-to-word-wedding-invitations","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rENN5B7RPAn14pYP75HgH/d457816cdf42b12cc74b3e7d88b73513/Wedding_Invitaion_Wording_Etiquette.jpg","altText":"green and white wedding invitation on green background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"This bridal shower guide will introduce you to the basics of bridal showers: traditional bridal shower etiquette (and which of those “rules” you can break), whom to invite, what to do, and who pays for it all.","title":"A Guide to Bridal Showers","slug":"a-guide-to-bridal-showers","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5o4uxtDjG6d4qgVGaLVrBU/16da092c9b0b80d7acca15ab930a1aef/A-Guide-to-Bridal-Showers.jpg","altText":"a bridal shower card labeled \"soon to be mrs.\" on the grass next to a few pastel-colored bridal shower cookies"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-10-03T03:29:50.693Z"}],"name":"Creating a budget","slug":"creating-a-budget","description":"Learn how to create a wedding budget that works for you. Find practical advice and expert tips on how to stay within your budget while creating the wedding you want."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding websites","slug":"wedding-websites"},"slug":"how-to-share-your-wedding-website","title":"How to Share Your Wedding Website","excerpt":"Wedding websites allow you to communicate all of the details about your big day in one place. Wondering how to share your wedding website? Read ahead.","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2021-06-22T14:42:48.401Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/U6iHTOMdVoNeVioB8Ftz6/a54c7cdefa478613ea8cf761fc5b9016/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"How to Share Your Wedding Website"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- There are many classy ways you can share this URL with your guests. \n- You can include your wedding website URL on your save the dates, bachelor and bachelorette invitations, wedding shower invitations, and formal invitation enclosure cards. \n- You can also share a clickable link to your wedding website via text or email, or post it in a private Facebook group. \n- Invest in a catchy custom domain name and show off eye-catching website design. Zola has hundreds of beautiful [wedding website templates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) that you can choose from.","body":"Gone are the days of relying solely on snail mail to inform your guests about your wedding day. Thanks to [wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/8-ways-to-create-a-personalized-wedding-website), you can efficiently communicate all of the important details about your big day in one place.\n\nBetter yet, wedding websites with a landing page are more convenient for your guests, especially those who are prone to losing physical invitations. Your guests can refer back to your __[wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website)__ any time they have questions about your wedding date, location, registry information, or FAQs.\n\nAlso, ban any thoughts that using technology, such as an online RSVP or wedding landing page is tacky. Although older guests may wonder how QR codes work or want a printed wedding program, utilizing technology helps modern wedding guests stay engaged.\n\nUse QR codes for your wedding website and invitations. Having a QR code wedding invitation is unique, but it’s also easily scannable for anyone who has a smartphone camera. They also aren’t difficult to DIY to keep destination wedding details and wedding RSVPs close at hand. And that’s just one of many ways that tech can help keep your wedding planning organized.\n\nSo, what is the best way to share your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-website-url-ideas) with your guests? While there aren’t decades of etiquette or tradition behind this innovative tool, we have some suggestions for how you can share it in a classy way. Below, we’ll discuss:\n\n- __What is a Wedding Website?__\n- __What to Share on Your Wedding Website__\n- __How to Share Your Wedding Website__\n- __How to Encourage Your Guests to Explore Your Wedding Website__\n\n### What is a Wedding Website? \n\nA wedding website is a personalized website [created and shared](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/when-should-i-make-a-wedding-website) by an engaged couple. Its purpose is to act as a touchpoint for your guests to access information about your wedding day (or weekend). Typically, your website will include details such as your wedding date, location, and travel accommodations. However, couples may also use theirs to share how they met and introduce their wedding party. Note: If you build a free website with a wedding company, such as Zola, you can also use it to share your gift registry and collect digital RSVPs.\n\n## How to Share Your Wedding Website \n\nWhile __[wedding websites have a lot to offer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/make-wedding-website)__, yours won’t do much good if your guests never see it. Fortunately, there are many classy ways to share your wedding website with your guests that make finding information a snap. Here are a few suggestions of where to place the link to your wedding website:\n\n### 1. Include it on the Save the Dates.\nYour save the date is the first place you can share your wedding website URL with your guests. Simply list the URL in dainty text somewhere underneath your main message, or add in a QR code that can take your guests straight to your website in a snap.\n\nIf your save the date card doesn’t have enough space for your URL, you can also send a “details” enclosure card along with it. Use this card to encourage your guests to visit your wedding website for additional wedding details.\n\n[![Zola QR Code Promo](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5hYJyrZbdCbVYf8gL8ZRtq/1abe728cdf14a9b3e0e0ade433128c67/EA_Article__1_.jpg)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop)\n\n### 2. Use an enclosure card in your formal invitation suite.\nIf your wedding website wasn’t published when you sent out your save the dates, don’t worry. You can share your URL when you send out your formal invitations too. Many guests will save these invitations for future reference, so they’re a great place to include your URL. This is also the perfect opportunity to include an easily scannable QR code.\n\n### 3. Add it to your wedding shower or bach party invitations.\nInclude your wedding website URL on all of the invitations for wedding-related festivities leading up to your big day. This will give your guests more opportunities to check out your website while your wedding is fresh in their minds. Keeping this information handy is vital to making everything easy on your attendees.\n\n### 4. Send it via email or text message.\nChances are, you already communicate with most of your guests by email or text. Since you have everyone's contact information, use it to share your [wedding website URL as a clickable link](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002259412-How-do-I-share-my-website-with-my-guests-). Clicking on a link from a laptop or a smartphone is much easier than typing in a URL manually, especially for your less tech-savvy guests. Your guests can also save this text or email message for future reference in case they lose their invitation.\n\nAt Zola, we offer a streamlined process for sharing your special link via email. All you have to do is go to your [“Guest List”](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) in the Zola Weddings dashboard. From there, you can:\n\n- Add an email address for each guest on your list\n\n- Check each guest’s name or simply click “Select All”.\n\n- Click the “Bulk Actions” dropdown menu.\n\n- Choose “Send Message”.\n\n- Write a brief message in the field and include your wedding website link and password (if you have one) at the end. An example message might look something like this: “We are so excited to invite you to our wedding. To learn all of the details about our big day, check out our wedding website at www.OurWedding.com. The website’s password is LOVE2021.”\n\n### 5. Make a private Facebook group.\nAs far as social media goes, Facebook still reigns supreme—everyone seems to have an account. In turn, it’s a convenient place to share your wedding website link too. Post your website in a private group made up of your wedding guests, as opposed to a status update or in a public group. Sharing your link privately will prevent you from hurting any friends’ or family members’ feelings who didn’t make it onto the guest list.\n\nYou can enhance the privacy of your website by protecting it with a password. At Zola, you can __[create a custom website password](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002135571-How-do-I-make-my-website-password-protected-)__ in a few easy steps. This will avert any random internet onlookers from stumbling upon your information. It will also prevent uninvited acquaintances from seeing all of your wedding details. Just make sure to use a password that’s easy for your guests to remember and simple to spell.\n\n### 6. Create a QR code and add it where you need it.\nFolks are now pretty familiar with how to use a custom QR code. Nowadays, many restaurants use them instead of paper menus, and you can create a dynamic QR code to convey information to your wedding guests. Similar to barcodes, you can use a QR code generation to create QR codes specific to your big day. \n\nThings like links to your dress code, wedding invitation cards, venue directions, and RSVP cards can all be turned into scannable images using a free QR code generator. Some sellers on Etsy can create a QR code resembling a shape to coordinate with your invitation design. Think about how easy it would be for your guests to scan a QR code RSVP using their smartphone camera. They can easily let you know if they’ll be celebrating with you on your big day. \n\n### How to Encourage Your Guests to Explore Your Wedding Website\n\nCreating a wedding website can be a ton of fun. However, it also takes up a lot of precious wedding planning time. You have to write out all of your FAQ answers, research local lodging and transportation options for your guests, and get the design just right.\n\nAfter all of that work, you want to make sure that your guests use your wedding website to its full potential.\n\nTo encourage them to explore your website, try out these strategies with your specific site:\n\n- __Prompt them with an informative message:__ When you share your URL on your save the dates, invitations, enclosure cards, and Facebook posts, make sure to include a brief message explaining why your guests should visit your wedding website. Without this message, they may not realize how important it is to check it out. Here are some short and sweet message ideas you can use for inspiration:\n\n- *Check out our website to RSVP and learn more about our special day: insert link*\n\n- *To learn more about our wedding, registry, and more, visit our wedding website:*\n\n- *Get all of the details about our wedding day and RSVP here*\n\n- *For directions, lodging suggestions, and other FAQs, check out our wedding website*\n\n- __Invest in a custom domain name:__ Typing in a complex URL with a string of numbers, letters, and slashes can be difficult for your guests. To make things easier on them, consider purchasing a custom domain name. With a custom domain name, your wedding website URL will read as “JackAndJill.com,” rather than “Zola.com/wedding/JackAndJill.com.” Choosing a custom URL that’s catchy and easy to spell will also increase the chances that your guests type it in correctly and make it onto your website.\n\n- __Employ a user-friendly layout:__ Once your guests get to your website, you want to make sure that they find all of the information they’re looking for with ease. To do so, clearly label each section of your website and arrange the content in an order that flows naturally.\n\n- __Impress your visitors with stylish design:__ Your wedding website is a place where you can showcase your style and creativity. Make sure that you choose an attractive wedding website template and upload beautiful photos. Stylish web design will captivate your visitors’ attention and keep them on your website.\n\nWhether your wedding is elegant, rustic, beachy, or bohemian, Zola has a wedding website template that will compliment your theme. Better yet, each of our wedding website themes has matching __[invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)__, __[save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop)__, and __[enclosure cards](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/enclosures/shop)__. By choosing a cohesive design for all of your wedding materials, you can set the tone for your big day.\n\n## Aid and Impress Guests With a Wedding Website from Zola\nA wedding website can help share all of your wedding information with your guests in one convenient location. By using a combination of methods to share your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-a-wedding-website), you can increase the chances that all of your guests find their way onto yours and use it to its full potential.\n\nZola makes it simple to create free, __[beautifully designed wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website/designs)__ that are easy to navigate and convenient to share. You can even search our templates by color so that yours matches your wedding theme. Leading up to your wedding, you and your guests will appreciate the ease, user-friendly nature, and convenience of this crucial wedding planning tool.\n\nThe functionality of Zola’s invitation designs is easy to navigate, making it easy for both tech-savvy and older generations to find information on your site. Minimalist fonts are available for couples who want a sleeker invitation template, and perhaps the best part is that you can select an invitation design to coordinate with your Zola wedding website. Nowadays, having a wedding website is essential and almost expected, so make things simple for your guests — from bridesmaids to your grandparents — by finding the [perfect template](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/20-most-popular-zola-wedding-website-templates) today.","body2":"## How to Share Your Wedding Website \n\nWhile [wedding websites have a lot to offer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/make-wedding-website), yours won’t do much good if your guests never see it. Fortunately, there are many classy ways to share your wedding website with your guests. You can include it:\n\n \n### 1. On the Save the Dates\nYour save the date is the first place you can share your wedding website URL with your guests. Simply list the URL in dainty text somewhere underneath your main message.\n\nIf your save the date card doesn’t have enough space for your URL, you can also send a “details” enclosure card along with it. Use this card to encourage your guests to visit your wedding website for additional wedding details. \n\n### 2. On an enclosure card in your formal invitation suite\nIf your wedding website wasn’t published when you sent out your save the dates, don’t worry. You can share your URL when you send out your formal invitations too. Many guests will save these invitations for future reference, so they’re a great place to include your URL. \n\n### 3. On your wedding shower or bach party invitations\nInclude your wedding website URL on all of the invitations for wedding-related festivities leading up to your big day. This will give your guests more opportunities to check out your website while your wedding is fresh in their minds.\n\n \n### 4. Via email or text message\n\nChances are, you already communicate with most of your guests by email or text. Since you have everyone's contact information, use it to share your wedding website URL as a clickable link. Clicking on a link from a laptop or a smartphone is much easier than typing in a URL manually, especially for your less tech-savvy guests. Your guests can also save this text or email message for future reference in case they lose their invitation.\n\nAt Zola, we offer a streamlined process for [sharing your special link via email or text](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002259412-How-do-I-share-my-website-with-my-guests-). All you have to do is go to your “Guest List” in the Zola Weddings dashboard. From there, you can:\n\n- Add an email address or phone number for each guest on your list\n- Check each guest’s name or simply click “Select All”.\n- Click the “Bulk Actions” dropdown menu. \n- Choose “Send Message”.\n- Write a brief message in the field and include your wedding website link and password (if you have one) at the end. An example message might look something like this: “We are so excited to invite you to our wedding. To learn all of the details about our big day, check out our wedding website at www.OurWedding.com. The website’s password is LOVE2021.”\n\n### 5. In a private Facebook group\nAs far as social media goes, Facebook still reigns supreme—everyone seems to have an account. In turn, it’s a convenient place to share your wedding website link too. Post your website it in a private group made up of your wedding guests, as opposed to a status update or in a public group. Sharing your link privately will prevent you from hurting any friends’ or family members’ feelings who didn’t make it onto the guest list.\n\nYou can enhance the privacy of your website by protecting it with a password. At Zola, you can [create a custom website password](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002135571-How-do-I-make-my-website-password-protected-) in a few easy steps. This will avert any random internet onlookers from stumbling upon your information. It will also prevent uninvited acquaintances from seeing all of your wedding details. Just make sure to use a password that’s easy for your guests to remember and simple to spell. \n\n![When Should I Make a Wedding Website](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/sLKCakFGZZzhLUqPFfwbg/2ec593f04e02c3cd13836ad9b65db680/Hero_Zola__1_.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Zola\n\n## How to Encourage Your Guests to Explore Your Wedding Website \n\nCreating a wedding website can be a ton of fun. However, it also takes up a lot of precious wedding planning time. You have to write out all of your FAQ answers, research local lodging and transportation options for your guests, and get the design just right. \n\nAfter all of that work, you want to make sure that your guests use your wedding website to its full potential.\n\nTo encourage them to explore your website, try out these strategies: \n\n- __Prompt them with an informative message:__ When you share your URL on your save the dates, invitations, enclosure cards, and Facebook posts, make sure to include a brief message explaining why your guests should visit your wedding website. Without this message, they may not realize how important it is to check it out. Here are some short and sweet message ideas you can use for inspiration:\n\n- *Check out our website to RSVP and learn more about our special day: insert link*\n- *To learn more about our wedding, registry, and more, visit our wedding website:*\n- *Get all of the details about our wedding day and RSVP here*\n- *For directions, lodging suggestions, and other FAQs, check out our wedding website*\n\n- __Invest in a custom domain name:__ Typing in a complex URL with a string of numbers, letters, and slashes can be difficult for your guests. To make things easier on them, consider purchasing a custom domain name. With a custom domain name, your wedding website URL will read as “JackAndJill.com,” rather than “Zola.com/wedding/JackAndJill.com.” Choosing a custom URL that’s catchy and easy to spell will also increase the chances that your guests type it in correctly and make it onto your website.\n\n- __Employ a user-friendly layout:__ Once your guests get to your website, you want to make sure that they find all of the information they’re looking for with ease. To do so, clearly label each section of your website and arrange the content in an order that flows naturally. \n\n- __Impress your visitors with stylish design:__ Your wedding website is a place where you can showcase your style and creativity. Make sure that you choose an attractive wedding website template and upload beautiful photos. Stylish web design will captivate your visitors’ attention and keep them on your website. \n\nWhether your wedding is elegant, rustic, beachy, or bohemian, Zola has a wedding website template that will compliment your theme. Better yet, each of our wedding website themes has matching [invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop), [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), and [enclosure cards](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/enclosures/shop). By choosing a cohesive design for all of your wedding materials, you can set the tone for your big day.\n\n## Aid and Impress Guests With a Wedding Website from Zola\nA wedding website can help share all of your wedding information with your guests in one convenient location. By using a combination of methods to share your wedding website, you can increase the chances that all of your guests find their way onto yours and use it to its full potential.\n\nZola makes it simple to create free, [beautifully dessigned wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website/designs) that easy to navigate, and convenient to share. You can even search our templates by color so that yours matches your wedding theme. Leading up to your wedding, you and your guests will appreciate the ease, user-friendly nature, and convenience of this crucial wedding planning tool.","tag":"How To","widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Your wedding website provides your wedding guests with all the necessary info about your wedding. Here's exactly what to include and what to skip on your wedding website.","title":"11 Dos and Don'ts for Your Wedding Website","slug":"dos-and-donts-wedding-website","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6IftHAsGNVhNIVybKGWqoc/c77aacc7e75e08ce7472ee66b2624c47/hero_11_Dos_and_Don_ts_for_Your_Wedding_Website.jpg","altText":"zola wedding website"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Create a beautiful, shareable free wedding website that will keep all your information in one place and make you and your SO's life easier.","title":"How to Build a Wedding Website: Guide + Tips","slug":"make-wedding-website","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1ivfWCLfICZzRAlSL2XROu/d275878391dec1bf789fae38c8c5d62b/7-Reasons-to-Make-a-Wedding-Website.jpg","altText":"free wedding websites on zola.com"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Create Your Free Website","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_WEBSITE"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:44:23.413Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding websites","slug":"wedding-websites"},"slug":"how-to-include-your-wedding-website-on-your-invitation","title":"How to Include Your Wedding Website on Your Invitation","excerpt":"Wondering how to share your wedding website with guests? Explore etiquette tips for how to share your wedding website on an invitation.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2019-02-04T15:29:33.595Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/26CncJFSKWLqU3QCUNbXDz/adef7cbc39110ffd3962b155c77cb77a/HERO_Zola_1080x720.jpg","altText":"wedding website on invitation etiquette"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","body":"You [wrote your “how we met” story](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-write-your-wedding-website), uploaded your [beautiful engagement photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-get-most-out-of-your-engagement-photos), and [created your wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/registry/registry-basics/tips-for-creating-a-wedding-registry). This can only mean one thing: you completed your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). Congrats! Crafting a wedding website that communicates all the important details about your wedding day is no easy task. Now that you hit publish, you’re probably wondering when and how you should share your brand-spanking-new site with your wedding guests.\n\nWhile it can be tempting to post a link to your wedding website on your social media accounts right away, we strongly advise against it. Sharing your wedding details with all of your web-based followers and friends often leads to confusion about who is and isn’t invited to your big day. Instead, modern etiquette suggests that you share your website with your guests via your [wedding invitation](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) (and save the dates, if applicable). For more information on how to include your wedding website on your invitation, keep reading. \n\nJust getting started? Check out our step-by-step guide on [how to make a wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-a-wedding-website). \n\n## Why to Include Your Wedding Website on Your Invitation\nIncluding a link on your invitation is the easiest and most common way to share your website with your guests. Traditionally, the wedding invitation suite includes a few different enclosure cards to relay critical information to guests. While that’s still an option, many modern couples have opted to forego multiple enclosure cards and instead direct guests to their website to learn need-to-know wedding details, such as hotel recommendations and registry information. In addition to communication wedding details, the wedding website may be included on the invitation for the following reasons: \n\n__1. To Collect RSVPs Online__ — Many couples choose to collect online RSVPs rather than have their guests fill out paper response cards. That’s because sites like Zola make it easy to gather RSVPs through your wedding website and [manage the guest list](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) with real-time updates and easy-to-use tracking tools. \n\n__2. To Share Registry Information__ — In the past, registry etiquette dictated that the registry only be shared by word of mouth. The digital age has rendered that rule outdated, and it’s now considered standard to share where you’re registered on your wedding website. Including your website URL on your invite makes it easy for guests to find your registry without hassle. \n\n## How to Include Your Wedding Website on Your Invitation\nNow that we’ve covered *why* to share your wedding website on your invitations, let’s talk about *how* to include your wedding website on your invitation without sacrificing aesthetic appeal or committing an etiquette faux pas. \n\nIn general, when sending out the [formal wedding invitation](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop/formal), guests appreciate having the wedding website information all in one place. Wedding etiquette insists that you don’t include your website on the invitation directly, but if you do choose to share it on the formal invitation, add the website to the bottom of the invitation. Wedding save the dates and enclosure cards are also a great place to share your wedding website with guests. You can do this by either:\n\n- Adding your wedding website URL\n- Adding a QR code\n\nLet's explore these different options for how you can share your wedding website on your invitation.\n\n[![Zola QR Code Promo](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5hYJyrZbdCbVYf8gL8ZRtq/1abe728cdf14a9b3e0e0ade433128c67/EA_Article__1_.jpg)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) \n\n### Save The Dates\nAlthough your [wedding save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) are sent out in advance of your invitations, they’re still a part of your invitation suite and the most popular choice for sharing the wedding website URL with guests as quickly as possible. \n\n__Where:__ If you make your save the dates using a pre-made design online, then the template will guide you on where exactly you should list your wedding website link. It varies by design, but in most cases, it’s listed on the back of the save the date or at the bottom of the front side. If you’re working with an invitation designer or making your own, where you place the URL is up to your personal preference. If you opt for a QR code, placing it on the back of your save-the-date would be ideal.\n\n__When:__ Send save the dates 4-6 months before your wedding date. \n\n### The Formal Invitation \nAlthough some wedding experts believe it’s bad decorum to include your wedding website on your invitation, we’re of the opinion that it’s okay if you’re collecting RSVPS through your site in lieu of response cards. Just keep in mind that unless the link serves a purpose other than broadcasting where guests can buy you gifts, that it may be considered poor etiquette to share your wedding website on your invitation. \n\n__Where:__ At the bottom of your invitation. Some wording examples:\n- “For more information, please visit [URL]”\n- “Kindly RSVP by [RSVP deadline] at [URL]”\n\nIf you opt to add a QR code instead, adding it to the back of the invite is best.\n\n__When:__ Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. \n\n### The Enclosure Card(s) \nYour other option is to include your wedding website URL on an enclosure card (an additional piece of your invitation suite used to communicate additional details to your guests). While there are many types of enclosure cards, these three are used to point guests to your website: \n\n- __RSVP Card__ — If guests should RSVP online via your wedding website and you don’t want (or have the space) to include these instructions on your invitation, an option is to include an RSVP card with instructions on where, when, and how guests should accept or decline your invitation online. \n- __Details Card__ — To communicate multiple pieces of information with guests on one card, many couples prefer to enclose a details card with their invite. This card may list your website, travel information, requested attire, and other fine points that your guests should know before the wedding day.\n- __Wedding Website Card__ — A final option is to add a wedding website card to your invitation suite. This card serves the sole purpose of sharing your website URL and is a great choice for couples who want their invitation to maintain a formal tone while also taking advantage of modern tech conveniences. ","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Craft your dream wedding website effortlessly with Zola's step-by-step guide. Showcase your love story and details in style. Start creating today!","title":"How to Create Your Wedding Website: 10 Simple Steps ","slug":"how-to-make-a-wedding-website","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6a4MvmncJr4AKia1nFr6Tn/91e1616adecb7211caf14038546e0f27/DESKTOP_ww.png","altText":"Zola wedding website as seen on a laptop computer"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Save the dates add an extra touch of style and coordination to your wedding. Find out why and when you should send your save the dates with this complete guide.","title":"A Guide to Save The Dates","slug":"a-guide-to-save-the-dates","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1l4X83Mek3961mcDS1Mxap/63f3401f482b291ea6472fab334c2ef8/A-Guide-to-Save-the-Date.jpg","altText":"wedding save the date by zola"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn the how-to's of wedding invitation wording, plus formal and casual wedding invitation examples from the experts.","title":"Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide","slug":"how-to-word-wedding-invitations","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rENN5B7RPAn14pYP75HgH/d457816cdf42b12cc74b3e7d88b73513/Wedding_Invitaion_Wording_Etiquette.jpg","altText":"green and white wedding invitation on green background"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"A wedding registry is a personalized collection of gifts that an engaged couple has specifically chosen for their guests to shop from in order to make the wedding gifting experience simpler, easier, and more satisfying for everyone.","title":"What Is a Registry (And Why Do You Need One)?","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-registry","topic":"Registry & gifts","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MOrWgRKcg82A4y64i24iG/4449d94511192d74050b3418c02d3ec6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding gifts from a Zola registry including copper Kitchen Aid stand mixer, Le Creuset turquoise ramekins, and a copper Vitamix blender"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"This bridal shower guide will introduce you to the basics of bridal showers: traditional bridal shower etiquette (and which of those “rules” you can break), whom to invite, what to do, and who pays for it all.","title":"A Guide to Bridal Showers","slug":"a-guide-to-bridal-showers","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5o4uxtDjG6d4qgVGaLVrBU/16da092c9b0b80d7acca15ab930a1aef/A-Guide-to-Bridal-Showers.jpg","altText":"a bridal shower card labeled \"soon to be mrs.\" on the grass next to a few pastel-colored bridal shower cookies"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors like size, shape, & decor. Read our guide to gain insights on the average cost of a wedding cake this year.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cake Cost in 2025?","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ywuArPikb1BsvjvYzDQhn/24f27696b854c3c5a22eed69292c6c4b/Guide-to-Wedding-Cake-Costs-and-Price.jpg","altText":"Graphic of pink wedding cake with heart cake topper and price tag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Dress to impress! Your go-to guide for wedding guest attire, from formal to casual. Find the perfect look for every dress code and celebration.","title":"Wedding Guest Attire: A Guide to Every Dress Code","slug":"what-to-wear-to-a-wedding","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5bgD1lwZNmIWCwyoiQgUI/abb4b34d02674b500f4edb610fb1eea6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding guests laughing with bride at wedding receptions"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"While it may not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, setting your wedding budget is essential. We’ll break down the typical expenses, guide you through the entire process from start to finish, and tell you where you can save money. ","title":"How to Set Your Wedding Budget Step by Step","slug":"how-to-set-your-wedding-budget","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XhGxWHyRGrUPWWVgkBzic/91d8435955228875ec57fdf5f974f5bc/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Green/bluescale image of jar of money tipped over with change spilling out"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Create Your Free Website","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_WEBSITE"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:44:32.337Z"}],"name":"Wedding websites","slug":"wedding-websites","description":"What is a wedding website? Do you need one? Learn all about wedding websites, why they make wedding planning so much easier for you and your guests, and finally, how to create the perfect website for your wedding!"},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Legal","slug":"legal","description":"Find guidance on legal aspects of getting married and planning a wedding like changing your name, marriage certificates, wedding venue insurance, wedding vendor contracts and more."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding planning tools","slug":"wedding-planning-tools"},"slug":"small-wedding-details","title":"25 Small Wedding Details You Don't Want to Forget","excerpt":"A lot of details go into a wedding. Don't forget the small wedding details! Add these often overlooked (but essential) items to your to-do list and check it twice.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2019-08-22T17:03:19.557Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2IALiWRgjTTZ28cqO0LoM0/c3e85dbcc4325ba87b0992e44b6be359/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding couple celebrates small wedding details"},"heroCredit":"Zola","body":"When it comes to wedding planning, there are a lot of big pieces you figure out quickly. Of course, things get a bit more complicated as you start to nail down the hundreds of details that need your attention. Don’t worry! Everything is going to come together to create your dream wedding. Here are a few often-overlooked small wedding details to remember for before, on, and even after your wedding. \n\n## Top 10 Wedding Details to Remember\n\n### 1. Create a wedding website (before you send out invitations). \nYour [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) will act as a hub where your guests can get important information about your wedding day. This is where you can include all the additional info that doesn’t fit on your wedding invitations—think directions to the venue and links to your registry. Of course, you need to include the URL on your actual physical invitation, so start with the website first and foremost.\n\n### 2. Leave enough time for dress alterations.\nWedding dress alterations are a bit more involved than say tailoring a pair of pants. You may have up to three or four fittings before your day, all spaced out over a few months. Depending on your wedding timeline, plan to leave enough time to get them all done so you can have the perfect fit. \n\nOnce you [find your dress](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop), you’ll know right away how many alterations need to be made. Head to a seamstress soon after that to gain a clear understanding of just how much time your overall alterations will take—and plan from there.\n\n### 3. Arrange transportation.\nDepending on where your ceremony and reception take place, you may require various forms of transportation. Typical wedding transportation situations include:\n\n- Getting your wedding party from the ceremony to the photo locations to the reception\n- Getting your wedding guests to the ceremony and/or to the reception\n- Getting all your wedding guests back to accommodations post-ceremony\n\nYou may not need all these lines of transportation, but you’ll likely need at least some. Don’t forget to set up party buses, limos, or drivers for cars. If nothing else, offer to arrange Ubers and Lyfts so no one has to worry about drinking and driving. Then, be sure to include all of this transportation information on your wedding website so guests know how they’ll get to point A, B, and maybe C.\n\n### 4. Buy gifts for your wedding party.\nIt’s your day, of course, but not without the help of your loyal wedding party. It’s customary (while not required) to give small tokens of appreciation in the form of gifts for everyone in your wedding party, including the maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, and ring bearer. Gift something practical like jewelry or socks that your wedding party members will actually wear for the ceremony. Many couples choose to gift customized items to their wedding party, too. Whatever you decide, be sure to order all gifts early enough. You want time to wrap each gift and attach a heartfelt note of thanks to go along with it. \n\n### 5. Coordinate vendor meals. \nYour vendors are going to be working away while you’re enjoying your wedding day. Ask your coordinator or venue about vendor meals ahead of time. They can usually provide boxed sandwiches or something similar so everyone will stay fed and happy. \n\n### 6. Hand out vendor tips. \nWe know you’re hyper-focused on your budget—and we’re sure you heard to budget tips for your vendors into your overall cost. Good! Get cash out or prepare checks ahead of time and put everything in clearly marked envelopes for each vendor, like your caterer, bartender, and florist (that you haven’t already tipped). Then, assign a wedding party or family member to distribute day-of.\n\n![inline PhotoByBrandyAngelPhotography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2PCKsaTQLroHQl2zC2sf0c/4ef44793547697e2494b1769b3d1996f/inline_PhotoByBrandyAngelPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Brandy Angel Photography\n\n### 7. Check if the venue has disability access.\nYou want all your guests to arrive safely and comfortably. As you’re venue hunting, ask if each location has disability access. This will make or break an early-on decision about where you’ll host your ceremony, reception, or both. Your dream venue should be one where all your guests of all ages and abilities can easily access. \n\n### 8. Prepare a plan B for bad weather. \nIf you’re hosting an outdoor wedding, you’re in for a beautiful wedding with nature as your scenic backdrop. That said, you’re also potentially in for some elemental troubles. There are a number of outdoor wedding issues to account for and you need to be prepared with a plan B in the case of rain, or worse. Your venue and vendors should be able to assist you with coming up with a plan of action (or defense).\n\nCheck out our [guide to common outdoor wedding problems](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/10-common-outdoor-wedding-problems-and-how-to-solve-them)—and their solutions, too. \n\n### 9. Add yourself to your catering order guest count.\nYou’re going to be busy, busy, busy on your wedding day, but you still need to eat! If you’re having a seated dinner, don’t forget to include yourself and your partner when you give the caterers a final headcount. Place your orders like any other wedding guest to make sure your food is ready when you need it most.\n\n### 10. Make a “Do Not Play” list for the DJ.\nIf you [chose a wedding DJ over a wedding band](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choose-wedding-band-or-dj), you have some extra liberty around what gets played at your wedding—and what doesn’t. Ahead of your wedding day, sit with your partner and put together a “do not play” list. Review it with your DJ and feel confident that you’ll skip the line dancing you so loathe.\n\n## More Wedding Details You Can't Miss\nStill need direction on the planning process? Here are some more little details you'll definitely want to add to your [wedding planning checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)\n\n### 11. Organize transportation for yourselves.\nWhile you’re setting up transportation options for your guests and wedding party, don’t forget yourselves. Decide as a couple how you want to exit your ceremony and your reception. Many couples want total privacy to and from their various locations. Others may choose to leave their ceremony in a fancy car or carriage but hop on the party bus with everyone post-reception. It’s up to you entirely—just be sure to make the arrangements. \n\nAll the small wedding details may feel like a lot, but with careful planning, it will all be worth it when you see your vision come together on your big day.\n\n### 12. Book your officiant.\nIf you want your wedding to be official, you need someone who can legally marry you—or, in other words, your officiant. If you're having a friend or family member act as your officiant, make sure to let them know in advance so they have enough time to get certified—and if you're hiring an officiant, make sure to book them far before your wedding day, as many book up months ahead of time.\n\n### 13. Secure your rentals.\nSome reception venues come with everything you need to pull off your big day. But others require you to secure rentals—and if that's the case, you'll want to check that off your to-do list well before your wedding. Ask your venue what you'll need to rent (for example, linens, napkins, tables, or chairs)—and then ask if they have any rental vendors they can recommend so you can reserve what you need.\n\n### 14. Plan your accessories.\nChances are, you're not going to forget your dress. But it can be easy to forget the smaller details of your wedding style, like your shoes or jewelry. Once you pick your wedding dress, make sure to plan out your accessories and buy them in advance so they're ready to go on your big day.\n\n### 15. Buy family gifts.\nSome couples like to buy their gifts for their families as a \"thank you\" for helping with wedding planning—and if you're one of those couples, you'll want to add gift shopping to your to-do list.\n\n### 16. Pack flats for the wedding reception.\nSome people do well in heels. Others...not so much. If you struggle to walk in heels—but you're set on walking down the aisle in them—make sure to secure another, more comfortable pair of shoes for the reception (like a pair of ballet flats or sandals). That way, you can get out and enjoy the dance floor—without the discomfort of too-high heels.\n\n### 17. Order your guest book.\nMany guest books are custom made to order—so if you're planning to have a guest book at your wedding, make sure to order it well in advance.\n\n### 18. Confirm food allergies or dietary restrictions.\nMost wedding caterers will offer alternative meals for guests with allergies or dietary restrictions (for example, vegan guests)—but only if you let them know ahead of time. Make sure to collect any dietary information from your guests on their RSVP cards—and relay that information to your caterer by their deadline.\n\n![INLINE PhotoBySaraRieth-RomanticStorytelling](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EFmHosxTPsGYIJYEHxJNJ/00cc7a674ad9c2e60436b4e00d29c286/INLINE_PhotoBySaraRieth-RomanticStorytelling.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Sara Rieth\n\n### 19. Write (and print!) your vows.\nIf you're planning to write your own vows, you actually have to plan for it; otherwise, you may get caught up in other wedding tasks—and find yourself frantically writing your \"I do's\" the night before your big day. Schedule a few blocks of time on your calendar the month before your wedding to write your vows; then, schedule a time the [week of your wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) to make any necessary changes or edits. And don't forget to print out a copy!\n\n### 20. Assemble an emergency kit.\nHopefully, nothing will go wrong on your wedding day. But if it does, you want to be prepared! Assemble an emergency kit filled with items to tackle any potential wedding day mishaps, like a sewing kit, a stain remover pen, and extra deodorant.\n\n### 21. Order \"getting ready\" food.\nIf you and your bridal party are planning on getting ready together the day of your wedding, you'll want to have food on hand—and you'll want to order that food in advance. Consider getting brunch delivered—or, if that's not an option, designate a friend or family member to pick up food and bring it to your getting ready location. And don't forget drinks!\n\n### 22. Book your hotel block.\nIf you have guests coming from out of town, they're going to need hotel rooms. Many hotels will block off rooms and offer a discounted rate for weddings—so make sure to do your research, choose your hotel, and book your room block at least a few months before your wedding.\n\n### 23. Assemble welcome bags.\nYou want your out-of-town guests to be comfortable—and welcome bags are a great way to do that. The week before the wedding, carve out time to assemble welcome bags with snacks, drinks, and other wedding favors to make your guests comfortable; then, deliver the bags to the hotel and ask them to put them in your guests' rooms before they arrive.\n\n### 24. Set a point person to help with wedding photos...\nYour wedding photographer likely has a list of shots they'd like to capture on your big day—many of which involve other family members, members of the wedding party, or loved ones. But your photographer doesn't know who those people are—so you'll want to put someone (like a trusted friend) in charge of rounding up who your wedding photographer needs, when they need them.\n\n### 25. ...and to ensure nothing gets left behind.\nAt the end of your wedding, chances are, you're going to be exhausted. But you don't want to leave anything behind at the venue, so make sure to put someone (again, like a trusted friend or a wedding coordinator, if you have one) in charge of doing a sweep at the end of the night. If anything gets left behind, ask them to grab it and get it to you in the days following the wedding.\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:41:36.984Z"}],"name":"Wedding planning tools","slug":"wedding-planning-tools","description":"We breakdown all of the must-know wedding planning tools to help make planning your wedding seemless. Discover articles on tools that help you keep track of your budget, guest list, RSVPs, gifts, and more. Learn which tools to use and how best to use them to create the wedding you envision, stress-free."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding planning questions","slug":"wedding-planning-questions"},"slug":"what-are-the-bridesmaid-duties","title":"The Bridesmaid Duties: A Full Breakdown","excerpt":"Being a bridesmaid means agreeing to a fairly long list of responsibilities. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of bridesmaid duties.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2018-12-18T17:46:36.309Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6QXWPz3k4MiAsmCmeU0eMA/7e2a00bd16521e40896f972d429c5189/Hero_RomanticWeddingatAbigailKirschatTappanHillMansion_ChristopherDugganPhotography__1_.jpg","altText":"Bridesmaid Duties"},"heroCredit":"Christggan Photography","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/brittany-michelle-photography","body":"Being a bridesmaid means agreeing to a fairly long list of responsibilities. As a part of the the Bride Tribe, a bridesmaid is expected to plan and attend all pre-wedding parties, help out with aspects of the wedding planning as needed, and be totally present and available to the bride on the wedding weekend. We’ve divided the list of bridesmaid duties into tasks that occur before the wedding and then actually on the big day. Every friend, sibling, or relative who’s asked to be a bridesmaid should have no trouble fulfilling her role if she follows these guidelines.\n\nPre-Wedding Bridesmaid Duties\n1. Shop (and Pay) for Bridesmaid Attire \n2. Help Plan (and Pay) for the Bridal Shower \n3. Help Plan (and Pay) for the Bachelorette Party \n4. Attend Any Other Pre-Wedding Events \n5. Book Travel & Hotel Reservations \n6. Attend the Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner \n7. Help Support the Bride Emotionally \n8. Help With Wedding Planning Tasks \n9. Buy a Wedding Present \n\nWedding Day Bridesmaids Duties\n1. Get Ready With the Bride \n2. Assist the MOH \n3. Provide Getting-Ready Snacks \n4. Be the “Bride Tribe” \n5. Participate in the Ceremony \n6. Be Photo-Ready \n7. Be Model Guests (and the Life of The Party) \n8. Maintain a Stress-Free Send-off \n\n## Pre-Wedding Bridesmaid Duties\nThese are the main duties that bridesmaids are typically expected to perform in the months and weeks leading up to the wedding:\n\n### 1. Shop (and Pay) for Bridesmaid Attire\n\n\nBridesmaids may be asked to visit a bridal shop as a group to try on and select dresses together, or each woman may be asked do her own shopping and simply send her measurements and dress pick to the bride (or to a chosen shop). If the [bridal party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-is-a-wedding-party-and-do-you-need-one) isn’t wearing matching attire, the bride may simply ask that each bridesmaid select her own outfit and share a photo to make sure it coordinates. Here are some additional tips when it comes to shopping for bridesmaid attire: \n- Whether shopping together or individually, follow the bride’s wishes with a smile on your face.\n- Be on time with your presence, your information, and/or decisions. \n- Provide supportive and sensitive feedback on the choice of bridesmaid attire *__only when requested__*. \n- Be prepared to pay for your own bridesmaid dress, jewelry, and shoes. \n\n### 2. Help Plan (and Pay for) the Bridal Shower \n\n\nThe bridal shower may be a shared responsibility among the bridesmaids, the maid of honor, or the parent(s) of the bride or groom—however, bridesmaids are expected to at the very least attend the shower, and if there are no other hosts that step forward, to help the MOH with the [shower planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-bridal-shower) and execution. \n\n### 3. Help Plan (and Pay for) the Bachelorette Party\n\nWhile the bulk of the bachelorette party planning usually falls to the maid of honor, the rest of the bridesmaids should lend her a hand wherever possible. This might include helping to secure travel plans, accommodations, activities, and transportation, as well as divvying up the costs between each bridesmaid so the bride’s expenses are covered.\n\n### 4. Attend Any Other Pre-Wedding Events\n\n\nWhether it’s an engagement party, a couples’ shower, or a gathering of helpers to do some wedding DIY over beers and pizza, bridesmaids are expected to attend all pre-wedding activities to the best of their abilities. \n\n### 5. Book Travel and Hotel Reservations \n\n\nBridesmaids should take care of their own transportation and accommodations for the wedding weekend. It’s a good idea to do this early on, so you can be sure your travel logistics are convenient to both the schedule and location of important events. Whenever transportation is not already provided, the bridesmaids should figure out how they’ll get from place to place during the festivities.\n\n### 6. Attend the Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner\n\n\nBridesmaids should be present at both the ceremony rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner. Not only is this a practical concern—everyone involved in the ceremony needs to know where to assemble, enter, exit, and where to sit or stand during the service—but as a member of the bride’s support crew, she’ll need you there during these final moments of preparation before the big day. \n\n### 7. Help Support the Bride Emotionally\n\n\nAs her best friends, siblings, relatives, and just generally the people she wants surrounding her on this huge life decision, bridesmaids carry the role of being the bride’s emotional rock. Wedding planning can come with its fair amount of stress, so bridesmaids should check in with her throughout the process, ask what she needs, and do their best to thoughtfully and sensitively support her feelings. \n\n### 8. Help With Wedding Planning Tasks\n\n\nWhile bridesmaids are not wedding coordinators, florists, caterers, or cake bakers, they might be asked to help with certain smaller wedding planning tasks within reason. Activities such as stuffing envelopes, alphabetizing escort cards, getting hands-on with some easy DIY projects, or even making trips with the bride to pick out rentals or attend her hair and makeup trial are tasks where the bridesmaids can lend a hand.\n\n### 9. Buy a Wedding Present\n\n\nAs with any other wedding guest, bridesmaids should buy a wedding gift for the couple off of their [Wedding Registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) and have it shipped to their address before the wedding. The only time this expectation may be removed is if you’re serving as a bridesmaid at a destination wedding and your presence (i.e. travel expenses) are considered gift enough. Going in on a big-ticket [group gift](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) with all of the bridesmaids can be a fun way to give the couple somthing they really want! \n\n## Wedding Day Bridesmaid Duties\nOn the big day, bridesmaids help ensure everything goes smoothly for the bride, her maid of honor, and the majority of the wedding guests. Here’s how: \n\n### 1. Get Ready With the Bride\n\n\nBridesmaids should plan on showing up at the designated getting-ready location on time, with all of their gear (bridesmaid attire, shoes, jewelry, makeup, undergarments, etc.) in hand. Besides getting themselves aisle-ready, the bridesmaids should do whatever they can to assist the bride during this time, such as: \n- Keeping her smiling, laughing, calm, and collected\n- Answering any incoming texts, calls, or logistical questions for her \n- Making sure she eats something and stays hydrated \n- Pouring celebratory bubbly for everyone to enjoy \n- Keeping hair and/or makeup appointments on track \n- Helping her into her dress\n- Assisting her with her shoes, jewelry, or veil\n\n### 2. Assist the MOH\n\n\nThe maid of honor has a pretty big job on the wedding day. Bridesmaids should serve as her right-hand ladies, helping out with whatever tasks are needed—whether that’s making a last-minute run to the drugstore, coordinating with the photographer or wedding planner, or providing (and keeping track of) a wedding day emergency kit. \n\n### 3. Provide Getting-Ready Snacks\n\n\nIf no other arrangements have been made for getting-ready sips and snacks, the bridesmaids should take it upon themselves to provide these treats. Everyone—from the bride to her mother to even the photographer and beauty stylists—will appreciate the gesture and benefit from some food and drink throughout the busy day.\n\n### 4. Be the “Bride Tribe”\n\n\nBridesmaids should embody the concept of being the support crew for the bride and the maid of honor in all ways during the big day. They can also serve as a point of contact for guests and vendors when it’s helpful. Here are some tasks the bridesmaids can cover to be of service:\n- Double-check that all members of the wedding party and any special family members have their personal flowers (bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, flower crowns, or toss petals). Assist with pinning on boutonnieres or other floral accessories as needed.\n- Help guests navigate the venue, such as directing them to parking areas, bathrooms, handicap access, exits, and if applicable, the bar or refreshments station.\n- Standing near the gift table, guest book, or wedding favors to help direct and facilitate guests’ participation. \n\n### 5. Participate in the Ceremony\n\n\nBridesmaids should be in place at the ceremony venue on time, (most likely hidden out of sight), and ready for their cues to process down the aisle. Keep chatter to a minimum and be respectful of the planner, officiant, or whomever is running the show. During the actual ceremony, be sure to hit your rehearsed mark, fulfill any other roles you’ve been assigned during the actual service, and then process out of the ceremony according to plan. \n\n### 6. Be Photo-Ready\n\n\nIf the wedding party didn’t pose for photographs with the happy couple before the ceremony, typically these group photos occur right after the ceremony at the beginning of the cocktail hour. Rather than dispersing into the crowd, bridesmaids should stick together and be ready to follow the photographer’s commands—gathering stray folks for these shots can be tiresome, not to mention steal precious minutes away from the couple’s ability to enjoy their cocktail hour. \n\n### 7. Be Model Guests (and the Life of The Party)\n\n\nBridesmaids should mingle and chat with other guests, enjoy the food and drinks offered, sit down at their dinner table when asked, participate in guest-related activities like signing the guestbook or visiting the photo booth, listen to, applaud, and/or give any speeches (that have been pre-arranged), witness the special dances, and boogie down (tastefully) when it’s dance floor time.\n\n### 8. Maintain a Stress-Free Send-off\n\n\nFinally, bridesmaids should help the maid of honor, coordinator, or the couple’s parents assemble any items than need to be transported out of the reception venue at the end of the night. These packables might include: \n- Any getting-ready clothing or gear \n- Extra/unused ceremony programs, favors, or sparklers \n- Leftover alcohol \n- Any decor or signage that was personally provided (not rented) \n- The bride and/or bridesmaids’ bouquets\n- Wedding cards and gifts\n- The guest book\n- Special toasting flutes, cake servers, or cake plate\n- A basket of late-night leftovers (packaged by the caterer)\n- The top tier of the wedding cake\n- A few slices of late-night wedding cake (packaged by the caterer)\n- The bride and/or groom’s wedding attire, if they’ve changed into getaway clothes\n\nIn addition to making sure the above items leave the venue in the right vehicle(s), bridesmaids can lend a hand with these final logistical tasks: \n- Make sure all guests make it onto the right shuttle buses, find their cars, or otherwise make it safely out of the venue.\n- Hand out pre-addressed tip envelopes to the vendors.\n- Make sure the bride and/or groom’s overnight bags make it to their wedding night hotel room. \n- Organize guests to the after-party, if there is one. \n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"To help your groom’s crew achieve wedding party perfection, here’s a total rundown of both traditional and lesser-known duties that the groomsmen can handle to make your day a breeze.","title":"The Groomsmen Duties: A Full Breakdown","slug":"what-are-the-groomsmen-duties","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/fWwz6PEGcwUqySiyogssM/896f7054e8a5e377c932d0a30417662c/Groomsmen-Duties_DreamlifePhotosandVideo.jpg","altText":"groom and groomsmen in light grey suits"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"What's the difference between a wedding party & a bridal party? Learn more & get expert planning tips to help you prepare for the big day.","title":"Bridal Party vs. Wedding Party: What's the Difference? ","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-party-and-do-you-need-one","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/68X8glzRII6myuoYsI6E0S/f9b9a7d44f481f5628e374b6b0c1e744/Hero_New_GildedGlamWeddingatSkyRoomatCrownePlazaMidtown_LoveInMotionLLC.jpg","altText":"formal portrait of wedding party. Bride and bride maids with bouquet are sitting on stair in the front , Groom and groom men are standing at the back"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You want to include everyone in your wedding party, but you know you can't. If you're having a hard time deciding who and how many, here's exactly how to figure out how many people should be in your wedding party.","title":"How Many People Should Be In Our Wedding Party?","slug":"how-many-people-in-wedding-party","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7jGh076UPkB6vrSPqXfSJP/10ec5e0e7e761f53fba669a78fa0273b/How-Many-People-Should-Be-Our-In-Wedding-Party_CapturedCoutureLLC.jpg","altText":"indian couple gets married with wedding party"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Explore creative ideas to plan the perfect bachelorette party weekend. Get tips on how to plan the guest list, budget, itinerary, and more.","title":"A Guide to Bachelorette Parties","slug":"a-guide-to-bachelorette-parties","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5WNGSmVLkk8c6A0mqikmA0/9d0e0089b810d0ba0896d1af18dceea6/Guide-to-Bacherlorette-Parties.jpg","altText":"bride in white silk robe laughing with bridesmaids in mint green bride tribe tank tops"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Get all your questions about bachelor parties—from who is responsible for planning to what to do—in this comprehensive guide. ","title":"A Guide to Bachelor Parties","slug":"a-guide-to-bachelor-parties","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6xYvE1cGvmqiEWoqyMSoy0/c820939acd9d2ea06c136a83dc1d8a41/Hero_VentolaPhotography.jpg","altText":"groom and groomsmen"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wedding toasts are tricky. We’ve got some helpful tips to guide you towards a great wedding toast that you and your favorite couple will remember fondly for years, so grab your notepads and get ready for some key(note) advice.\n","title":"How to Write a Wedding Toast: The Ultimate Guide","slug":"how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/x9jCrc9cdiEKCCISOo0Yq/a0e027d2c2668c23cc22b4d5d22f577c/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Graphic of two clinking champagne glasses"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"A wedding registry is a personalized collection of gifts that an engaged couple has specifically chosen for their guests to shop from in order to make the wedding gifting experience simpler, easier, and more satisfying for everyone.","title":"What Is a Registry (And Why Do You Need One)?","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-registry","topic":"Registry & gifts","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MOrWgRKcg82A4y64i24iG/4449d94511192d74050b3418c02d3ec6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding gifts from a Zola registry including copper Kitchen Aid stand mixer, Le Creuset turquoise ramekins, and a copper Vitamix blender"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn the how-to's of wedding invitation wording, plus formal and casual wedding invitation examples from the experts.","title":"Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide","slug":"how-to-word-wedding-invitations","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rENN5B7RPAn14pYP75HgH/d457816cdf42b12cc74b3e7d88b73513/Wedding_Invitaion_Wording_Etiquette.jpg","altText":"green and white wedding invitation on green background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"This bridal shower guide will introduce you to the basics of bridal showers: traditional bridal shower etiquette (and which of those “rules” you can break), whom to invite, what to do, and who pays for it all.","title":"A Guide to Bridal Showers","slug":"a-guide-to-bridal-showers","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5o4uxtDjG6d4qgVGaLVrBU/16da092c9b0b80d7acca15ab930a1aef/A-Guide-to-Bridal-Showers.jpg","altText":"a bridal shower card labeled \"soon to be mrs.\" on the grass next to a few pastel-colored bridal shower cookies"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors like size, shape, & decor. Read our guide to gain insights on the average cost of a wedding cake this year.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cake Cost in 2025?","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ywuArPikb1BsvjvYzDQhn/24f27696b854c3c5a22eed69292c6c4b/Guide-to-Wedding-Cake-Costs-and-Price.jpg","altText":"Graphic of pink wedding cake with heart cake topper and price tag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Dress to impress! Your go-to guide for wedding guest attire, from formal to casual. Find the perfect look for every dress code and celebration.","title":"Wedding Guest Attire: A Guide to Every Dress Code","slug":"what-to-wear-to-a-wedding","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5bgD1lwZNmIWCwyoiQgUI/abb4b34d02674b500f4edb610fb1eea6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding guests laughing with bride at wedding receptions"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:45:19.350Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding planning questions","slug":"wedding-planning-questions"},"slug":"a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors","title":"How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors","excerpt":"Confused on how much to tip wedding vendors, which vendors to tip, and when to distribute tips? Fear not: explore our guide for tipping wedding vendors.","publishedAt":"2019-01-17T20:06:32.436Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/oljNU6JIHuglslJ7ouSRO/c09c8646dad52d410abed69adbc51a28/lovesome-photography.webp","altText":"how much to tip wedding vendors and venue coordinator"},"heroCredit":"Lovesome Photography","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/lovesome-photography","body":"You’ve signed the last check, paid the last deposit, purchased the final items, and settled up all the remaining balances…your wedding has been paid for! Or—has it? In the grand scheme of budgeting for your wedding, don’t forget to factor in funds for tipping wedding vendors. While not all vendors expect to be tipped for their services—instead choosing to make their prices reflect all the payment they feel they need—for some it’s an expectation to follow tipping etiquette in the wedding industry. Confused on which vendors to tip, how much you should tip each type of vendor, and when to distribute tips? Fear not: here’s a guide on tipping vendors.\n\n## Wedding Vendor Tipping Pointers\n\n1. Tips are a great way to show vendors your appreciation for their hard work at your wedding and may even be an unexpected surprise. You can also tip when you feel you’ve received extraordinary service.\n2. Check your contracts to be sure that gratuity has not already been included in the price.\n3. Generally speaking, you do not need to tip the owners of large businesses (just their employees). Small business owners, on the other hand, should be considered for tipping based on the quality of service you feel you’ve received.\n4. Tip or no tip, writing a thank you note to vendors who provided you with great service is always a thoughtful gesture and highly appreciated—as is leaving them positive reviews on wedding planning websites like [Zola for Vendors](https://www.zola.com/inspire/vendors).\n\n### Who's responsible for tipping?\n\nWhen it comes to tipping wedding vendors, the responsibility for providing the tip can sometimes be a point of confusion, especially if someone else is covering the cost of the wedding. In the scenario where the bride's parents or another party are paying for the wedding, it is generally considered thoughtful and appropriate for your as the couple to handle the tipping on their own. \n\nTipping vendors is a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication in making the wedding day special. Even if someone else is funding the event, you've likely been involved in selecting and working with the vendors throughout the planning process, making it fitting that they express their gratitude through tipping. By taking on this responsibility, you can ensure that the vendors who contributed to your big day are properly acknowledged and thanked for their efforts.\n\n## How Much to Tip Wedding Vendors (by Vendor Type)\n\nWhile your tip should depend on your wedding budget and level of satisfaction & a few other factors, here are some quick guidelines on how to tip your wedding vendors, with additional protocol & tips below:\n\n- Photographers & Videographers: 10% of the total package cost if opting for a percentage, or $50-$100 per person\n- Wedding coordinator/planners: 10-20% of the total bill (up to $500)\n- Wedding Venue Coordinator/Catering Captain: $250-500, or 15-20% of the food and drink bill\n- Officiant: $50-$100\n- Ceremony Musicians: $15-$20 per musician\n- Florist: $50-100\n- Hairstylist & Makeup Artist: 15-20% of total\n- Transportation: 15-20%\n- Wedding Band: $25-$50 per musician\n- Wedding DJ: 10-20% of total\n- Reception Waitstaff: 15-20% of labor costs on food & drink bill\n- Reception Bartender: 10% of the total bill\n- Delivery Personnel: $5-$10 per person\n\n### Wedding [Photographer(s)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers) and [Videographer(s)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional; consider tipping second shooters or staff beyond the business owner(s).\n- __Amount:__ Although not required, consider tipping wedding photographers and videographers 10% of the packgae cost or $50-$100 per person. You could also provide a good review as another nice gesture for their photography services. \n- __Timing:__ At the end of the reception.\n\n### [Wedding Planner](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional; about 50% of couples tip.\n- __Amount:__ Although wedding planners don’t expect a tip, if you’d like to show your appreciation for examples of exceptional service, consider offering a tip that’s 10-20% of the total bill (up to $500).\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the reception, or mail it after the honeymoon.\n\n### Wedding Venue Coordinator/[Catering Captain](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Expected, based on contract. If service fee is not included, tip according to below.\n- __Amount:__ Wedding venue coordinators and catering captains should be tipped $250-500, or 15-20% of the food and drink bill.\n- __Timing:__ If included in the contract, the final bill is due before the wedding. If not, at the end of the reception.\n\n### Officiant\n\n- __Protocol:__ Expected, depending on officiant. If s/he works for a church or synagogue, you might consider making a donation to that institution additionally.\n- __Amount:__ A wedding officiant should be tipped around $50-100 for the officiant alone, depending on how much time they’ve spent with you pre-ceremony. Consider a $100-500 donation to the religious institution.\n- __Timing:__ Prior to the wedding (when paying the ceremony service fee), or after the rehearsal.\n\n### [Ceremony Musicians](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional; consider the complexity of their setup and/or performance.\n- __Amount:__ Consider tipping each ceremony musicians $15-20 per musician.\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the wedding ceremony.\n\n### [Florist](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional or not expected, unless you really loved their work and service.\n- __Amount:__ Consider tipping your wedding florist $50-$100 of your total floral bill.\n- __Timing:__ Include a separate check with the final invoice, or mail it after the -honeymoon.\n\n### [Hair & Make-up Artist(s)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Expected\n- __Amount:__ Wedding hair and make-up artists should be tipped 15-20% of your total charge (just like at a salon!). You can discuss with your wedding party whether on not you plan to cover this cost or if they're expected to.\n- __Timing:__ At the end of their service.\n\n### Transportation\n\n- __Protocol:__ Expected (but may be already included in the contract).\n- __Amount:__ Wedding transportation staff should be tipped 15-20% of your total bill.\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the night or after the final ride.\n\n### [Wedding Band](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional; consider their overall performance and responsiveness to your requests.\n- __Amount:__ Consider tipping your wedding band $25-$50 per musician\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the reception.\n\n### [Wedding DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional; consider their overall quality and responsiveness to your requests.\n- __Amount:__ Although not required, consider tipping your wedding DJ 10-20%.\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the reception.\n\n### [Reception Waitstaff](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional, based on contract (check to see if a service fee is included). Tip on top of service fee only for exceptional service.\n- __Amount:__ Consider tipping your wedding reception waitstaff 15-20% of labor costs on your food and drink bill. Reach out to the your lead caterer or catering captain to determine the best way to ensure each person you plan to give a tip recieves theirs.\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the reception (or during set-up, to encourage great service).\n\n### [Reception Bartender](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bar-services)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Optional, based on contract (check to see if a service fee is included). Tip on top of service fee only for exceptional service. \n- __Amount:__ Consider tipping your wedding reception bartender 10% of the total liquor bill.\n- __Timing:__ At the end of the reception (or during set-up, to encourage great service).\n\n### Delivery Personnel (Wedding Cake, Rentals, Flowers, Etc.)\n\n- __Protocol:__ Expected\n- __Amount:__ Wedding delivery personnel should be tipped $5-$10 per person\n- __Timing:__ Leave cash envelopes with the coordinator or catering manager (whomever will be on site overseeing delivery and setup) to distribute the tip(s).\n\n## How to Deliver Tips \n\nIt is essential to consider streamlining the process, especially amidst the bustling activities of the big day. One solution to designate a member of the wedding party, such as the best man or maid of honor, to take charge of distributing tips. This delegation allows the couple to fully immerse themselves in the joyous occasion, free from concerns about managing tipping logistics. This arrangement becomes particularly advantageous if the couple plans a grand exit, as they won't be burdened with carrying envelopes while making their departure. By entrusting a trusted individual with the task, the vendors' hard work receives the appropriate appreciation, contributing to a harmonious and memorable celebration for all involved parties.\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors like size, shape, & decor. Read our guide to gain insights on the average cost of a wedding cake this year.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cake Cost in 2025?","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ywuArPikb1BsvjvYzDQhn/24f27696b854c3c5a22eed69292c6c4b/Guide-to-Wedding-Cake-Costs-and-Price.jpg","altText":"Graphic of pink wedding cake with heart cake topper and price tag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"How does one go about choosing a wedding venue? Here's the rundown on one of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish after saying “yes!”","title":"10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dzm0QohK8uai2YouWoMUg/f7db6c6feb0fe4c3d27f9f2a914572ad/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_How-to-choose-venue.jpg","altText":"Bridge and groom in front of the church"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"A wedding registry is a personalized collection of gifts that an engaged couple has specifically chosen for their guests to shop from in order to make the wedding gifting experience simpler, easier, and more satisfying for everyone.","title":"What Is a Registry (And Why Do You Need One)?","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-registry","topic":"Registry & gifts","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MOrWgRKcg82A4y64i24iG/4449d94511192d74050b3418c02d3ec6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding gifts from a Zola registry including copper Kitchen Aid stand mixer, Le Creuset turquoise ramekins, and a copper Vitamix blender"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn the how-to's of wedding invitation wording, plus formal and casual wedding invitation examples from the experts.","title":"Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide","slug":"how-to-word-wedding-invitations","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rENN5B7RPAn14pYP75HgH/d457816cdf42b12cc74b3e7d88b73513/Wedding_Invitaion_Wording_Etiquette.jpg","altText":"green and white wedding invitation on green background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"This bridal shower guide will introduce you to the basics of bridal showers: traditional bridal shower etiquette (and which of those “rules” you can break), whom to invite, what to do, and who pays for it all.","title":"A Guide to Bridal Showers","slug":"a-guide-to-bridal-showers","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5o4uxtDjG6d4qgVGaLVrBU/16da092c9b0b80d7acca15ab930a1aef/A-Guide-to-Bridal-Showers.jpg","altText":"a bridal shower card labeled \"soon to be mrs.\" on the grass next to a few pastel-colored bridal shower cookies"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Dress to impress! Your go-to guide for wedding guest attire, from formal to casual. Find the perfect look for every dress code and celebration.","title":"Wedding Guest Attire: A Guide to Every Dress Code","slug":"what-to-wear-to-a-wedding","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5bgD1lwZNmIWCwyoiQgUI/abb4b34d02674b500f4edb610fb1eea6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding guests laughing with bride at wedding receptions"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:46:08.828Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding planning questions","slug":"wedding-planning-questions"},"slug":"what-is-a-wedding-party-and-do-you-need-one","title":"Bridal Party vs. Wedding Party: What's the Difference? ","excerpt":"What's the difference between a wedding party & a bridal party? Learn more & get expert planning tips to help you prepare for the big day.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2018-12-18T17:01:19.590Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/68X8glzRII6myuoYsI6E0S/f9b9a7d44f481f5628e374b6b0c1e744/Hero_New_GildedGlamWeddingatSkyRoomatCrownePlazaMidtown_LoveInMotionLLC.jpg","altText":"formal portrait of wedding party. Bride and bride maids with bouquet are sitting on stair in the front , Groom and groom men are standing at the back"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/creative-images-photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- A wedding party is the group of people chosen by the couple to support them from engagement to marriage. \n- Siblings, close family members, and best friends are often chosen to be part of the wedding party.\n- The bridal party is the group chosen by the bride to support her on the wedding day.\n- Some members of the wedding party have specific roles, like the best man who might be expected to plan the bachelor party, or the maid of honor who is often expected to plan the bridal shower and bachelorette party.\n","body":"A wedding party is a group of people chosen by the couple to support and celebrate them throughout their journey from engagement to marriage. The people chosen to be in a wedding party are typically close friends and family members of the bride(s) or groom(s). They are responsible for certain duties, both before and during the big day. Some of these wedding party duties include: \n\n- Planning pre-wedding activities such as showers and bachelor/bachelorette parties.\n- Helping the bride and/or groom get dressed and ready on the big day.\n- Participating in the ceremony by standing nearby after the bride’s grand entrance until after the couple exchanges their vows.\n- Historically, members of the wedding party would be the witnesses to a marriage, and would sign off on any sort of legal documentation necessary. \n\n## What’s the Difference Between a Wedding Party and a Bridal Party? \n- A __wedding party__ is the term for the entire group of people who participate in the ceremony alongside the couple—the maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any children such as the flower girl or ring bearer. \n- The __bridal party__, is just the group chosen by the bride to support her on the wedding day. \n\nTraditionally, bridal party members are made up of only women. However, as more and more couples are choosing to do things in their own way, the bride is no longer confined to choosing just women to be in her support crew. Thus the term “wedding party” (or even “commitment crew”) is the more modern, all-inclusive term used to describe the people chosen by the couple to surround and support them on their special day. \n\n## Who Should Be in My Wedding Party?\nThere are three categories of people who are usually included in the wedding party:\n1. __Siblings:__ Any siblings, including step-siblings or future siblings-in-law, are often first on the wedding party list. \n2. __Close family:__ Cousins or other relatives near in age to the couple are also often a good fit for the wedding party.\n3. __Best friends:__ The bride and/or groom’s dearest pals are another good choice for the wedding party—but they should be friends that have, or will, stand the test of time. Keep in mind these are the people that will be in your wedding photos forever!\n\n## Traditional Wedding Party Roles\nAt weddings with a \"head table,\" the wedding party sits with the bride and/or groom. With a \"sweetheart table\", the couple is seated separately from their wedding party, but their closest friends and family are still in close proximity.\n\nHere’s a quick breakdown of the titles and roles you’ll find in a traditional wedding party, as well as lengthier explanations for what each of these roles are expected to do. \n\n- *__Pro Tip:__ While these are the textbook divisions of matrimonial labor, however you choose to assign responsibilities is completely up to you and your partner. If you want to plan your own bachelorette party, skip it entirely, or skip having a wedding party for that matter, do what feels right for you. However you seek outside support during your wedding planning, make sure you articulate nicely and clearly what you need from each of the important people in your life so that they can help you have the meaningful, important day you’re hoping for.*\n\n### Quick Look at Traditional Wedding Party Roles\n- Best Man: the groom’s main dude. \n- Groomsman: the groom’s auxiliary dudes.\n- Maid of Honor: the bride’s main lady.\n- Matron of Honor: the bride’s main lady, but she’s married.\n- Bridesmaid: the bride’s auxiliary ladies.\n- Junior Bridesmaid or Junior Groomsman: usually tween-age family members or children of the bride and groom’s closest\n- Flower girl or boy: usually somewhere between the ages of 3 and 12; petal-tossers.\n- Ring Bearer: usually somewhere between the ages of 3 and 12; ring or sign holder.","body2":"### Detailed Look at Traditional Wedding Party Roles\n- __Best Man:__ A close friend of the groom, the best man is predominantly responsible for the social aspect of the groom’s wedding party. He is expected to:\n - Plan the [bachelor party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-bachelor-parties).\n - Attend the wedding rehearsal \n - Help keep the groomsmen on time throughout the big day.\n - Help out the groom and make sure he has everything he needs.\n - Assist with things like handing out programs to wedding guests or ushering before the ceremony.\n - Serve as keeper of the wedding rings (including handing them over at the correct moment during the wedding ceremony).\n - [Give a speech](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast) during the reception.\n - Share in the regular groomsmen’s responsibilities.\n\n- __Maid or Matron of Honor:__ Traditionally, the maid (or matron) of honor attends all pre-wedding events that the bride attends. Here are the maid of honor’s expected duties: \n - Help plan or host the bridal party luncheon.\n - Attend the wedding rehearsal.\n - Help plan or host the [bridal shower](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-bridal-shower). \n - Help plan or host the [bachelorette party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-bachelorette-parties).\n - Make sure all the bridesmaids are ready with their bridesmaid dress, hair, with hair and makeup and on time on the wedding day.\n - Provide refreshments during getting-ready hours.\n - Hold the bride’s bouquet during portions of the ceremony.\n - Help the bride navigate the bathroom in her dress.\n - Bustle the bride’s wedding dress before the reception.\n - Give a speech during the reception.\n - Shares in the regular bridesmaids’ responsibilities. \n\n- __Bridesmaids & Groomsmen:__ These wedding attendants share many of the same duties. Both bridesmaids and groomsmen are expected to: \n - Attend—and perhaps even plan—pre-wedding events such as the engagement party, bachelor or bachelorette parties, wedding showers, and wedding rehearsals.\n - Buy appropriate wedding attire and accessories.\n - Buy the couple a wedding gift.\n - Get ready with the bride or groom on the wedding day.\n - Process down the aisle and/or stand next to the couple.\n - Act as stand-in hosts as needed during the reception.\n - Hit the dance floor when requested.\n - Occasionally give a speech at the wedding reception.\n\n- __Parents of the Bride(s) or Groom(s):__ Traditionally, the bride’s parents and/or groom’s parents are expected to be involved in both the wedding planning, wedding rehearsals, and the actual wedding day itself, and may also share financial responsibility for part or all of the wedding. The parents of the bride and groom typically: \n - Serve as point people for extended or out-of-town families.\n - Serve as point people for guests who need extra assistance during the wedding ceremony and reception.\n - Some or all of the parents will give a toast at the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception, welcoming their new child-in-law and celebrating the union of their two families.\n\n - __Mother of the Bride:__ The bride’s mother can serve a similar role to the MOH in that she provides an extra level of support throughout the wedding planning process. Mothers of the bride usually help shop for the wedding dress, the bride’s necklace, costumes, and other important garments; she may also have a hand in planning the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and possibly a bridal luncheon for the bridal party and close female family members. On the wedding day, she helps the bride get ready, may walk her daughter down the aisle, and participate in the first dances. \n\n - __Mother of the Groom:__ The groom’s mother may perform some or all of the above functions, though she usually plays a slightly smaller role than the mother of the bride. The mother of the groom takes part in the mother-son dance.\n\n - __Father of the Bride:__ The bride’s father typically plays a smaller role in the run-up to the wedding, but has several duties on the day of the wedding. Some families choose to have a “first look” with the father of the bride, which allows the bride and her dad to spend some quality time together before the ceremony. The father of the bride often walks his daughter down the aisle and “gives her away” at the altar, either by himself or with the mother of the bride. He will also take part in the father-daughter dance.\n\n - __Father of the Groom:__ The groom’s father’s role is often even more limited, though in recent years more and more grooms have included their fathers as members of their wedding party or even asked their dads to serve as their best men. \n\n- __Other Family and Friends:__ Between (step)parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, you might have a whole horde of family knocking down your door to celebrate you and your partner on your special day...and that’s not even counting all your dear friends. Whether to choose to have a wedding party or not, you can find ways to expand your VIP roster by honoring your loved ones with specific roles or responsibilities. Here are a few ideas (feel free to get creative with titles):\n - Ceremony reader \n - Ceremony musician or singer\n - Ceremony greeter who hands out programs\n - Ceremony usher\n - Guest book attendant \n - Wedding officiant\n - Wedding Dj\n\n## Do You Need to Have a Wedding Party?\nThe short answer is no—having a wedding party is definitely not a requirement if it doesn’t feel right to you and your partner. There are plenty of reasons why a couple might not want any wedding party members: perhaps they have too many friends and family to choose from and don’t want to make tough choices, or perhaps they would prefer to have just the two of them up at the altar for a more intimate moment. If you’re eloping, having a very small wedding, or if this is not your first time getting married, having a wedding party might feel unnecessary. The choice to have a wedding party—and if so, who those people are—is totally up to you.","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_RealWeddings"}},"widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"To help your groom’s crew achieve wedding party perfection, here’s a total rundown of both traditional and lesser-known duties that the groomsmen can handle to make your day a breeze.","title":"The Groomsmen Duties: A Full Breakdown","slug":"what-are-the-groomsmen-duties","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/fWwz6PEGcwUqySiyogssM/896f7054e8a5e377c932d0a30417662c/Groomsmen-Duties_DreamlifePhotosandVideo.jpg","altText":"groom and groomsmen in light grey suits"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Being a bridesmaid means agreeing to a fairly long list of responsibilities. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of bridesmaid duties.","title":"The Bridesmaid Duties: A Full Breakdown","slug":"what-are-the-bridesmaid-duties","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6QXWPz3k4MiAsmCmeU0eMA/7e2a00bd16521e40896f972d429c5189/Hero_RomanticWeddingatAbigailKirschatTappanHillMansion_ChristopherDugganPhotography__1_.jpg","altText":"Bridesmaid Duties"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You want to include everyone in your wedding party, but you know you can't. If you're having a hard time deciding who and how many, here's exactly how to figure out how many people should be in your wedding party.","title":"How Many People Should Be In Our Wedding Party?","slug":"how-many-people-in-wedding-party","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7jGh076UPkB6vrSPqXfSJP/10ec5e0e7e761f53fba669a78fa0273b/How-Many-People-Should-Be-Our-In-Wedding-Party_CapturedCoutureLLC.jpg","altText":"indian couple gets married with wedding party"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wedding toasts are tricky. We’ve got some helpful tips to guide you towards a great wedding toast that you and your favorite couple will remember fondly for years, so grab your notepads and get ready for some key(note) advice.\n","title":"How to Write a Wedding Toast: The Ultimate Guide","slug":"how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/x9jCrc9cdiEKCCISOo0Yq/a0e027d2c2668c23cc22b4d5d22f577c/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Graphic of two clinking champagne glasses"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Explore creative ideas to plan the perfect bachelorette party weekend. Get tips on how to plan the guest list, budget, itinerary, and more.","title":"A Guide to Bachelorette Parties","slug":"a-guide-to-bachelorette-parties","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5WNGSmVLkk8c6A0mqikmA0/9d0e0089b810d0ba0896d1af18dceea6/Guide-to-Bacherlorette-Parties.jpg","altText":"bride in white silk robe laughing with bridesmaids in mint green bride tribe tank tops"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Get all your questions about bachelor parties—from who is responsible for planning to what to do—in this comprehensive guide. ","title":"A Guide to Bachelor Parties","slug":"a-guide-to-bachelor-parties","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6xYvE1cGvmqiEWoqyMSoy0/c820939acd9d2ea06c136a83dc1d8a41/Hero_VentolaPhotography.jpg","altText":"groom and groomsmen"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"A wedding registry is a personalized collection of gifts that an engaged couple has specifically chosen for their guests to shop from in order to make the wedding gifting experience simpler, easier, and more satisfying for everyone.","title":"What Is a Registry (And Why Do You Need One)?","slug":"what-is-a-wedding-registry","topic":"Registry & gifts","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MOrWgRKcg82A4y64i24iG/4449d94511192d74050b3418c02d3ec6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding gifts from a Zola registry including copper Kitchen Aid stand mixer, Le Creuset turquoise ramekins, and a copper Vitamix blender"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn the how-to's of wedding invitation wording, plus formal and casual wedding invitation examples from the experts.","title":"Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide","slug":"how-to-word-wedding-invitations","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rENN5B7RPAn14pYP75HgH/d457816cdf42b12cc74b3e7d88b73513/Wedding_Invitaion_Wording_Etiquette.jpg","altText":"green and white wedding invitation on green background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"This bridal shower guide will introduce you to the basics of bridal showers: traditional bridal shower etiquette (and which of those “rules” you can break), whom to invite, what to do, and who pays for it all.","title":"A Guide to Bridal Showers","slug":"a-guide-to-bridal-showers","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5o4uxtDjG6d4qgVGaLVrBU/16da092c9b0b80d7acca15ab930a1aef/A-Guide-to-Bridal-Showers.jpg","altText":"a bridal shower card labeled \"soon to be mrs.\" on the grass next to a few pastel-colored bridal shower cookies"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors like size, shape, & decor. Read our guide to gain insights on the average cost of a wedding cake this year.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cake Cost in 2025?","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ywuArPikb1BsvjvYzDQhn/24f27696b854c3c5a22eed69292c6c4b/Guide-to-Wedding-Cake-Costs-and-Price.jpg","altText":"Graphic of pink wedding cake with heart cake topper and price tag"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Dress to impress! Your go-to guide for wedding guest attire, from formal to casual. Find the perfect look for every dress code and celebration.","title":"Wedding Guest Attire: A Guide to Every Dress Code","slug":"what-to-wear-to-a-wedding","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5bgD1lwZNmIWCwyoiQgUI/abb4b34d02674b500f4edb610fb1eea6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding guests laughing with bride at wedding receptions"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:45:23.818Z"}],"name":"Wedding planning questions","slug":"wedding-planning-questions","description":"Lots of questions come up when planning a wedding. Find answers to all of your wedding planning questions in these articles. From which vendors to tip to most common wedding etiquette questions to how to write thank-you cards, our experts guide you through."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding decorations","slug":"wedding-decorations"},"slug":"wedding-themes","title":"75 Wedding Themes to Inspire Every Type of Couple","excerpt":"Looking for wedding themes to suit your personality and style? Zola has you covered with 75 of the best wedding theme ideas from classic to artsy to seriously unique.","author":"Jane Chertoff and Georgie Darling","publishedAt":"2023-12-20T00:00-05:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3HoNcgvHL38H89n8156o1/1017eb099f8518bbd5457c495a5e4753/73_Wedding_Themes_to_Inspire.jpg","altText":"Grid of different wedding styles - glitz and glam, tropical, rustic, summer camp."},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"http://www.zola.com","tldr":"## Inside this article \n\n- The 25 most popular wedding themes\n- Do I need a theme for my wedding?\n- How do I choose a wedding theme?\n- 50 more wedding theme ideas","body":"The perfect wedding theme awaits you!\n\nChoosing your wedding theme is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. But with so many to choose from, where do you start? \n\nSure, you could keep it simple with a non-themed wedding. \n\nOr you could branch out with wedding aesthetics that perfectly match your personality and style. We’ve put together an extensive list of different wedding themes that can be tailored to all sorts of couples, tastes, and budgets. \n\nRead on for 75 of the most popular wedding themes, complete with visual inspo and decor tips to help you plan your own wedding day.\n\n## 25 most popular themes for weddings\n \nBefore we jump into all the types of wedding themes to choose from — whether you're classic or creative, glam or vintage, alternative or boho-inspired — we’ve rounded up some of the most popular wedding themes for today's soon-to-be-married couples:\n\n1. __Formal Contemporary__\n![venue](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/NCb4QSehqsH1O6ku81ZwQ/f1b36511ffe074d0fa2206620cd54fcd/AdobeStock_124832951.jpeg)\nStick to the basics with this upscale wedding theme that uses modern design elements. Draped fabrics, crystal chandeliers, and tall centerpieces will bring this sophisticated look together.\n\n2. __Classic Glam__\n![gabriella-clare-marino-lcGz6gZsSsk-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6nhKyagLnjkBU86Stv0GTa/56cd1704e129754dd9272ec0f50d8de6/gabriella-clare-marino-lcGz6gZsSsk-unsplash.jpg)\nA classic glam affair is dazzling and over the top, with luxurious details from the venue to the decor. Monochromatic color palettes are popular, with metallics mixed in to add glitz and glamor.\n\n3. __Natural__\n![3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/mQVJUEDKRzSAcxNhkzS5r/06a8f988d6f6c5b27a6305aa089fcb5c/3.jpg)\nConsider an open-air courtyard to celebrate the beauty of nature throughout your wedding day. Eco-friendly wedding details such as edible favors and a sustainable exit help add detail to your natural wedding vibe.\n\n4. __Winter Wonderland__\nYour winter wedding celebration can glisten like snow with a winter wonderland theme. Use sparkles, snowflakes, and holiday decorations to achieve this dreamy aesthetic.\n\n5. __Full Bloom__\n![5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/123fEytq6FEaqjrbMVosxh/82c2ce732970503702bfc8f50bcb3a41/5.jpg)\nIn spring, all the flowers are in bloom—and you can use those vibrant bouquets as inspiration for your wedding theme. Incorporate fresh spring flowers into every element of your wedding decor — from elaborate table arrangements to a floral arbor.\n\n6. __Modern Minimalist__\n![6](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5XuVKWIWHNJYPAdSsaRZlQ/fda90e4a35159a191260ca339a3332f1/6.jpeg)\nLess is more with this simplistic theme that uses shapes, geometry, and small pops of color to come to life. You could even take it one step further, with a black and white wedding theme.\n\n7. __Mid-century Modern__\nEmbrace this retro (yet still modern) design style in your wedding decor with clean lines, sleek wooden textures, retro tablescapes and burnt orange furniture.\n\n8. __Art Deco__\n![8](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2J5GNIvt5PR4pBEK4VuDhQ/1dc157f53715d502158be278d83abeea/8.jpg)\nCelebrate the timeless elegance of the roaring ’20s with gold decor, sparkling sequins, feathers, and lots of bubbly. Use a wedding style color scheme of white, gold, and black for a sophisticated art deco design.\n\n9. __Classic Romance__\n![9](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3ZsG4M3PS4Wpg9uvAvHrzX/b8f4b01fba69c5b21d62dd332895fed8/9.jpg)\nThis timeless wedding theme comes with a soft, delicate palette of pinks and golds and traditional table decor such as bouquets made of roses and peonies. To set the romantic mood, provide candlelight and intimate seating for your guests.\n\n10. __Vineyard Chic__\nWine enthusiasts can make bubbly an important part of their wedding day with a vineyard chic celebration. To bring your vision to life, consider hosting your ceremony and reception at an actual vineyard and using wine bottles and corks as creative decor.\n\n11. __Botanical Theme__\n![11](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/xZSL48LapGehOVh9b62H0/df650db710d783d39815eac4513b0003/11.jpg)\nIf you plan to play up florals on your wedding day, consider a botanical wedding theme. This upscale garden party theme is luxe and sophisticated, and typically features metallic palettes and opulent floral displays. Send a floral save the date, wedding invitation, and wedding paper to match your wedding theme decor.\n\n12. __Rustic__\n![pablo-lancaster-jones-eIm1bSLSBSk-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ip8zWaSayVAc84dIM44wD/0e2d2e9895c1f47a8f49a0bc4149967e/pablo-lancaster-jones-eIm1bSLSBSk-unsplash.jpg)\nFor a rustic theme—which is popular with outdoor weddings—play up natural elements or homey decor (like plenty of greenery and mason jar floral arrangements).\n\n13. __Vintage Travel__\n![23](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3xptsVMWQTP85NL0wCTBd9/2da07077f1c124614d9144e7b5b1e127/23.jpg)\nAdventure seekers will love decorating for this theme that uses antique globes, postcards, and other vintage travel pieces as creative decor. Celebrate your wanderlust as you embark on the greatest journey of all.\n\n14. __Art History__\n![sara-darcaj-oXJ2SGSvZZs-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/66RHqmmSMIBAZ214Hgqjgl/872c028b099a14ba178c85031d61a55f/sara-darcaj-oXJ2SGSvZZs-unsplash.jpg)\nFor a tasteful and refined affair, consider a theme that commemorates art history throughout its decor and design. A museum or small art gallery is the perfect setting for this eventful art lesson.\n\n15. __Country__\n![15](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/BrdpO0Z0fVTagdg4A6sKg/649d3f3d06038eb421bdfcf4193882aa/15.jpg)\nBreak out the cowboy boots and country music at a ranch-style wedding. You can even incorporate ranch activities like hayrides and horseback rides if your venue allows it.\n\n16. __Shabby Chic__\n![16](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5L5g4wJV22i05ZtalQz7xh/5c6cc222fd3d043a7c196a5388e411d8/16.jpg)\nThis rustic-meets-vintage wedding style is all about romantic, soft textures and warm colors. Take something old and make it new again by decorating with antique centerpieces and light fixtures.\n\n17. __Tropical__\n![17](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3lYIwjJeCeh1Bxa0ATwu43/38fa98159face58ebb0acfbb7146b51e/17.jpg)\nYou don’t have to get married on the beach to embrace the island vibe. Use lush palms, exotic flowers, and conch shells to pull together a tropical wedding, and encourage guests to get into theme with resort wear.\n\n18. __Nautical__\nIf your ideal honeymoon is something water-based, a nautical theme might be the best choice for you. Anchor your love in place with a wedding theme that celebrates the high seas. Dress your celebration up with blue hues, breezy linens, and delicious seafood stations.\n\n19. __Beach__\n![19](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7r5QGMTzRURk2sEl5aLGRT/bbe086ec3848797181e856f3b38c0d89/19.jpg)\nIf you’re dreaming of getting married barefoot, toes in the sand, then a beach wedding is for you! Embrace the shoreline with your decor and bouquet with a wedding arch made of dried poms.\n\n20. __Tea Party__\nHost a vintage tea party for a daytime wedding celebration that’s both casual and cute. Serve snacks on fine China, have bridesmaids carry parasols, and don’t forget delicate touches of lace in your vintage wedding invitations and decor.\n\n21. __Royal Wedding__\n![21](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UZ1uCYGA6Eo9jgSE3UGVR/3c99b4dc106b2bfd08aca74c23375c46/21.jpg)\nThis is one of those wedding party themes that takes inspo from the experts. Channel the grace of Meghan Markle and the tradition of the British royal family with this romantic wedding theme. Myrtle flowers, London artwork, tiaras, and tea help make this look authentically chic.\n\n22. __French Countryside__\n![22](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/62fKY1mDFNrUQP5Vg4bdzA/cc5fbdf5407e0c966e95aa388eefc1da/22.jpg)\nIf you’re getting married at a chateau-style venue, consider saying “I do” the French way. This wedding theme mixes opulence with rustic chic. Make sure to bring lots of lavender, macarons, and baguettes baked with love.\n\n23. __Fall Foliage__\n![12](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2AGHcR19ih0yOMVuDinigw/153a7a3f19c636642a17285d26db281d/12.jpg)\nUse the colors of fall to inspire your wedding style—think maroon, gold, and forest green.\n\n24. __Masquerade__\nWhether you’re channeling Venice or Mardi Gras, this fun and festive wedding theme is heavy on glitz, glamour, and mystery. You can even ask guests to join in on the fun with thematic masks. \n\n25. __Alice in Wonderland__\nTake your guests down a rabbit hole with this themed garden party idea. Bring the look together with eclectic touches such as clocks, cards, pocket watches, and pastels.\n\n## Do I need a theme for my wedding? \n \n\nThough having one isn't mandatory, having a wedding theme can help you decide on the style of your dress and bridesmaid dresses, the wedding cake/food you serve, the design of your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) and invitations, the color of your flowers and more. Having a wedding theme can also help you create more cohesion with your other pre-wedding events—for example, connecting your wedding theme with your [bachelorette party theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/bachelor-party-ideas).\n\n## How do I choose a wedding theme?\n \n\nIf you’re looking for wedding inspiration, you’ve come to the right place! Regardless of whether you are planning a fall wedding or spring wedding, there are plenty of unique wedding reception themes for you and your partner to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite wedding theme ideas that will provide inspiration for every type of couple, from book lovers to outdoor enthusiasts and more!\n\n## 50 more themes for weddings\n \nLooking for something a little more outside-the-box when it comes to your wedding theme? Read on for 50 more themes for weddings, inspired by art, culture, travel, movies and more.\n\n### Classic wedding themes with a twist\n\nIf you're a traditional, classic person, chances are you're going to gravitate towards traditional, classic wedding themes.\n\nBut \"classic\" and \"traditional\" certainly don't need to translate to \"boring!\" There are plenty of different ways to make these wedding themes unique and exciting, and an expression of your style as a couple:\n\n### Classic modern wedding themes\n\n26. __Preppy:__ Your country club wedding is the perfect stage for a preppy wedding theme. Combine bright accents and modern patterns together for a bold and flirty design in your modern [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), [invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop), and [decor](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/party-supplies-decor).\n\n27. __Feminine Maximalist:__ More is more with this colorful and bold wedding theme that plays up dramatic displays and quirky touches. Make your maximalism pretty in pink with cascading florals and bright embellishments.\n\n![wedding-themes-modern](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5nMSWtCHql6osd2SuhfSkO/34635f336c93404eb8e25349d9190943/wedding-themes-modern.png)\nSources: [Mariah Naella](https://weddings.mariahnaella.com/) | [Kate Merrill Photography](https://www.katemerrillphoto.com/) | [J Wiley Photography](https://jwileyphotography.com/) | [Captured Frames](https://capturedframes.com/) \n\n### Classic glamorous wedding themes\n\n28. __Chic Estate:__ Old world glam takes center stage on the sprawling estate lawn during your ceremony and reception. Dress up your wedding tent with linens, lights, and floating florals for a look that’s elegant and refined.\n\n29. __Renaissance:__ Take your love back in time with this historical wedding theme. Consider replacing the traditional bridal dress with a medieval gown and serving up a menu full of ancient spices.\n\n### Classic rustic wedding themes\n\n30. __Farm-to-Table__: Make food the focal point of your day by creating an outdoor ambiance using organic decor and fresh menu offerings. Try an earthy palette and [centerpieces](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-centerpiece-ideas) that feature fruits and vegetables.\n\n31. __Southern Charm__: Peach cobbler and citrus are just some of the fixings to serve at your Deep South-inspired celebration. Play up feminine details and casual elegance in your ceremony and reception.\n\n![wedding-themes-rustic](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5C7BBB22goYR39EyK4V51D/1756be84e55408a255a481a8a5376210/wedding-themes-rustic.png)\nSources: [Stacey Able Photography](http://www.stacyable.com/citrus-lake-atitlan-guatemala-destination-wedding-photography/) | [Mango Studios](https://mangostudios.com/) | [Lara Hotz](http://larahotz.com/) | [Nichols Photographers](https://www.nicholsphotographers.com/) \n\n### Classic destination wedding themes\n\n32. __Grecian:__ Host a wedding worthy of the gods by adorning your venue in drapes, vines, and earthy colors. Gold accents and greenery can help make the white and cream drapery pop.\n\n33. __Midnight in Paris__: You don’t have to go all the way to France to have a dazzling Parisian wedding celebration. Go full 1920s glam or create a more subtle vibe using nostalgic touches such as books written by Hemmingway as centerpiece decor.\n\n## Creative wedding themes\n\nWant to embrace a more bespoke vibe for your wedding? Then creative wedding themes might be just what you've been looking for. Think outside of the box while planning your dream wedding with these unique, creative wedding themes:\n\n### Creative seasonal wedding themes\n\n34. __Summer glamp:__ Go glamping for a laid-back camp-themed wedding with a touch of glamour. Elevate a barn or backyard venue with feminine furniture and festive food stations for a summer camp experience like no other.\n\n35. __Midsummer:__ Celebrate the Swedish Midsummer holiday with a summertime ceremony that is centered around florals. Host a daytime picnic where you and your guests relax in the sun while making flower crowns and wreaths.\n\n### Creative modern wedding themes\n\n36. __Postmodern industrial:__ Revitalize an unexpected venue space such as an old factory or abandoned warehouse with a gritty and contemporary spin by using sharp lines and sleek accents. This theme looks to the future of design so have some fun picturing what your postmodern world looks like.\n\n37. __Geode:__ This glittering gemstone wedding theme really rocks. Incorporate agate place cards, a geode cake design, and other stone accents to achieve this look.\n\n38. __Pop art:__ If you’re looking for a bright wedding theme that always stays relevant, throw a pop art wedding. This style, made famous by artist Andy Warhol, mixes pop culture items with more traditional pieces for a look that’s anything but boring.\n\n### Creative glamorous wedding themes\n\n39. __Desert chic:__ Achieve an earthy glam aesthetic—with a boho touch—by mixing elevated bohemian elements with desert plants. This is perfect for a summer wedding theme in the western heat. Send guests home with a succulent wedding favor to complete the theme.\n\n40. __Breakfast at Tiffany’s:__ Your wedding palette can’t get more luxurious than Tiffany Blue. This classy wedding theme will embody the late great Audrey Hepburn, so play up her timeless style with white and black fashion accessories.\n\n![wedding-themes-vineyard](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5a6sYi76hFOXds4k9tixJs/4de7808084b73d3b6252d3960c97a1ea/wedding-themes-vineyard.jpg)\n\n### Creative rustic wedding themes\n\n41. __Kentucky Derby:__ This upscale country wedding theme is perfect for spring weddings. Bring southern glitz and glamour into your day with derby favorites like chic hats, mint juleps, and of course, horses!\n\n42. __Patriotic:__ If you, your spouse, or someone you love has served, consider paying homage to their sacrifice with red, white, and navy blue wedding details. You can encourage veterans and service members to come dressed in uniform.\n\n### Creative vintage wedding themes\n\n43. __The Beatles:__ All You Need Is Love, and what better way to prove it, than with a Beatles-themed wedding? Get creative with a songwriting guestbook or tables named after your favorite songs. \n\n44. __1950s:__ Take it back to happy days with a retro rock-a-billy wedding. Wear a tea length wedding gown and perfectly coiffed hair to achieve the aesthetic, and set up a photo booth to capture all the fun.\n\n45. __Elvis elopement:__ Elope like you’re in Las Vegas, complete with your own Elvis Presley officiant. You can keep it casual with this vintage style ceremony.\n\n46. __Fantasy of flight:__ If you’re an aviation enthusiast, consider celebrating the fantasy of flight on your wedding day. Pick a former airport hangar as your venue, and have fun with vintage photography of famous journeys in the air.\n\n47. __Theatre:__ If you and your partner are film buffs, consider hosting your wedding at a historical theater. Make movie magic part of your day with popcorn, a film screening, and touches of old Hollywood glamor.\n\n48. __Peacock:__ Channel the glamor of 1920s lounges with a peacock wedding theme. This mod, chic wedding style uses the beautiful shades of peacock feathers to bring together the ceremony and reception details.\n\n![wedding-themes-vintage](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4WYEPXwvnrWa8EmgcIBVlf/1706751532c9b5957dc651f45153a4f9/wedding-themes-vintage.jpg)\n\n### Creative storybook wedding themes\n\n49. __Harry Potter:__ If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling to Hogwarts, a magical ball might be the wedding theme for you. Break out your wand, spell books, and chocolate frogs and throw a party that would make Potter proud.\n\n50. __A Midsummer Night’s Dream:__ Host a magical Shakespearean-inspired wedding in the height of summer — think fairy lights and greenery at a post-sunset celebration that’s heavy on the romance and wine.\n\n51. __Romantic Fairytale:__ Plan an upscale fairytale wedding that’s rich in romantics. Use a pink and white color palette for a dreamy aesthetic and add tasteful touches to your reception decor.\n\n52. __Great Gatsby:__ Celebrate the Jazz Age with a Gatsby-inspired party featuring diamonds, feathers, and glamorous accents — don’t forget the champagne towers and fringe.\n\n53. __Twilight:__ Edward and Bella knew a thing or two about love. Channel the infamous Twilight wedding outdoors with dangling florals and wooden furniture.\n\n54. __Enchanted Forest:__ Earthy couples can embrace the mystique of the forest with this wedding theme that features twinkling lights, hanging moss, and greenery vines.\n\n55. __Secret Garden:__ Take a page from the English novel and host a wedding inspired by the cozy and lush charm of a British garden.\n\n56. __Disney:__ Inspire childlike wonder with a Disney-themed wedding. Whether you focus on one story, such as Cinderella, or mix in elements from multiple fairytales, this theme is sure to evoke nostalgia in your guests. These [Disney-inspired Save the Dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/disney) and invitations come with free, Disney-themed wedding websites, too.\n\n![wedding-themes-storybook](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3IFGw2bYrJRy1ZQ1lZnZ6d/ca5f543d579da46308713572557ccad5/wedding-themes-storybook.png)\nSources: [Stephanie Weber Photography](https://stephanieweberphotography.com/) | [Nirav Patel](https://niravpatelphotography.com/) | [Abigail Malone](https://abigailmalone.com/) | [Arte De Vie](https://artedevie.com/) and [Blue Gardenia Events ](http://www.bluegardeniaevents.com/)\n\n### Creative destination wedding themes\n\n57. __Bali Vibes:__ Even if you’re not saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, a Bali-themed wedding complete with rattan decor, vibrant flowers, and tropical floral decor will have you feeling the sunshine on your back on your special day.\n\n58. __Aloha Brunch:__ Host a Hawaiian-inspired luau during the day so you can take advantage of the sunshine and vibrant colors. The morning reception opens up new menu offerings like banana pancakes and mimosas.\n\n59. __Jungalow:__ What is a Jungalow wedding? Jungalow designer Justina Blakeney describes this design style as wild, cozy, and homey, with boho touches and lots of plants—perfect for a more bohemian wedding.\n\n60. __Yacht:__ This is not your average wedding on the water. Take your nautical up a notch with an upscale, black-tie wedding on (or inspired by) a yacht!\n\n61. __Under the Sea:__ Hold your under-the-sea nuptials at an aquarium so you can say “I do” alongside creatures of the deep. Decorate with turquoise, coral centerpieces, and sand dollars.\n\n62. __Rainforest:__ If you’re interested in hosting a private, tranquil affair, consider a rainforest-themed wedding. Pick a destination with rich, natural landscapes, send a destination wedding save the date, and play up the greenery decor.\n\n63. __Yoga Retreat:__ Enter marriage with a cleansed mind and spirit. You and your guests can reach a Zen state through meditation during the ceremony. Then dress up your reception with yoga-inspired relics and handwoven blankets.\n\n64. __Safari:__ If you and your spouse are animal lovers, consider a safari wedding theme. Embrace natural tones mixed with animal prints for an eclectic, bush-inspired vibe.\n\n### Creative alternative wedding themes\n\n65. __Rock ‘n Roll:__ Get inspired by rock stars from decades past with a wedding theme that celebrates your love for music, fashion, and eclectic decor. You can rock n’ roll all wedding night, and then party every day with your spouse from here on after!\n\n66. __Festival:__ If you and your partner love music festivals, consider a festival wedding where guests camp onsite, rock floral crowns, and dance into the night\n\n67. __Carnival:__ Be kids for the day with this wedding theme that lets you relive your childhood. Incorporate playful touches such as balloons, circus tents, and fair food.\n\n68. __Gothic:__ A castle-like venue is the perfect setting for a gothic affair. Consider ditching the white wedding dress in favor of something more thematic and don’t forget to light up lots of candelabras.\n\n69. __Steampunk:__ This chic and sexy wedding theme is reminiscent of the steam-powered aesthetics of the Victorian era. Have some fun with your wedding day outfit and encourage guests to get into the theme, too!\n\n70. __Celestial:__ If your love burns as bright as the stars in the galaxy, consider a celestial wedding to celebrate the sky. Star-crossed lovers can get decor inspiration and color palettes from astronomy, stars, and outer space with this out-of-this-world wedding theme.\n\n71. __Mountain:__ If you’re a morning person and/or lover of the outdoors, how about a hiking-themed wedding that has your guests up and active at dawn? Play up the hiking theme after your intimate, mountainside ceremony with a celebratory brunch reception.\n\n72. __Halloween:__ If you’re getting married in the fall, take advantage of the spooky season’s deep color palette and popular accessories such as pumpkins, smoke, and crystal balls.\n\n73. __Murder mystery:__ While you have everyone all dressed up, why not throw a murder mystery (and some funky accents) into the mix? Perfect for couples who love games, this wedding theme can be incorporated into the decorations, entertainment, and menu.\n\n74. __Game of Thrones:__ Winter is coming to your wedding with this theme straight from Winterfell. Let your wedding party get into character with faux fur, tiaras, and thick braids.\n\n75. __Superhero:__ Celebrate your favorite comics with a superhero wedding theme. Think a photo booth with props and costumes, a superhero trivia game, or cake toppers with your favorite characters.\n\nAfter you’ve found a wedding theme that will reflect you and your partner’s style, it’s time to start wedding planning. Shop for thematic save-the-dates, invitations, and decor elements on Zola’s [Wedding Boutique](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop).\n\n![wedding-themes-alternative](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KF7Kfp5f2WR1PH2XgqoAt/98fa5d92d309df258f4f4975d8ba1323/wedding-theme-alternative.png)\n\nSources: [Uriel Photography](http://www.uriel-photography.com/) | [Michelle Edgemont](https://michelleedgemont.com/) | [Nichols Photographers](https://www.nicholsphotographers.com/) \n","tag":"Wedding Style","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"In this wedding style guide, find out why thinking about your wedding style early on will help you in your planning, and how to use Zola Inspiration to discover your own personal wedding vision. ","title":"What's Your Wedding Style? + 130 Decor Ideas","slug":"whats-your-wedding-style","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2pqMpa47wQuGqyuWMKAIM8/129f21dfd693c80007fb121e3287f929/Whats-Your-Wedding-Style_BrandyAngelPhotography.jpg","altText":"What's Your Wedding Style? "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover the best trends in wedding favors for 2024. Explore unique, thoughtful and personalizable gifts to say thank you to your guests.\n","title":"57 Best Wedding Favor Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"wedding-favor-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4htHvgMQ2kudreHw1fqB8n/d78a19bfafdcf0518d029991930d3aa8/close-up-of-wedding-party-favors.jpg","altText":"Wedding favor gift boxes laid out on a white table."},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"How does one go about choosing a wedding venue? Here's the rundown on one of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish after saying “yes!”","title":"10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dzm0QohK8uai2YouWoMUg/f7db6c6feb0fe4c3d27f9f2a914572ad/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_How-to-choose-venue.jpg","altText":"Bridge and groom in front of the church"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Need wedding cake ideas but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered with this list of 112 wedding cake ideas, organized by wedding season. ","title":"112 Wedding Cake Ideas & Designs","slug":"wedding-cake-ideas","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5V0DFlLCeXlId6h1UScbIm/b57fdd7bbf656730765e7a6c1d8ff03f/112-Wedding-Cake-Ideas-and-Designs.jpg","altText":"wedding-cake-ideas-by-season"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:51:26.817Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding decorations","slug":"wedding-decorations"},"slug":"mason-jar-cocktail-kits","title":"DIY Mason Jar Cocktail Kits Your Guests Will Adore","excerpt":"Putting together party favors for your wedding or bachelorette party can quickly get overwhelming. These mason jar cocktail kits are the perfect solution to showing you care without too much fuss. \n","publishedAt":"2019-07-22T16:20:34.333Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Ctk29C6DAnK7Wfxh7hAln/3c28f31551ebe64246f2702ceef9cd6d/zola-mason-jar-group-3-min.jpg","altText":"Mason-jar-cocktails"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","body":"Putting together favors for your wedding or bachelorette party is the perfect way to show your appreciation for your [friends and family](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests). Even so, when it comes down to actually giving a gift to each attendee, things can get overwhelming quick. \n\nSo, we put together these DIY mason jar cocktail kits. Whether you’re a margarita maven or cider connoisseur, these kits are a super simple way to make your guests feel warm and welcome (we mean before putting them to use!) Keep reading to learn how to make the cocktail kits or skip to all the recipes below. \n\n## How to Make a Mason Jar Cocktail Kit\n\nBefore you start, make sure to get an [accurate count](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-politely-remind-guests-to-rsvp) of the number of guests you expect to attend. It also never hurts to have a few extra. Then, gather your materials:\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-materials](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2OTTnN2t9VHz0HbTpWE2Oc/5373a7528f2289fd1be782788c597e98/mason-jar-cocktails-materials.png)\n\n- __Mason jar__: You can go large or small, but at least a pint or quart-sized jar will be perfect for most cocktails.\n- __Straw:__ Match the straw with the cocktail, or provide a straw in a contrasting color for a vibrant pop.\n- __Scissors__: You'll need scissors to cut the twine or string, as well as any gift tags you may attach.\n- __Twine__: Use twine, string, yarn, or even a ribbon (for a more refined look) to tie on the tag and mini liquor bottles.\n- __Drink tag__: Attach a tag to thank guests for coming, and let them know how to make their kits. We made printable tags for you! \n- __Mixers__: Some drinks will only require one ingredient, while others may need extras like simple syrup or tabasco. Depending on your cocktail, you may have to get creative to fit everything in the jar. \n- __Liquor__: The smallest bottle you can find at the store, typically 1.7 oz or about 50ml will be just the right size to tie on the outside of your kit.\n\n### Step 1: Add some small accents like paper filling or confetti for a stylish flair. \n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-step-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/J2pSq4gGdnwnCQNpzONeS/c2b850628b16ef06da2a6ec515e6c206/mason-jar-cocktails-step-1.jpg)\n \n### Step 2: Place your mixer and any extra ingredients like Tabasco inside the jar\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-step-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3T5916pceBY1ZnTqZg1F3j/5ddf7ca5b8a1aa2780e3ab0acff5b3b4/mason-jar-cocktails-step-2.jpg)\n\n### Step 3: Insert the straw, securing it in a position where it will stay put. \n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-step-3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3wA4LdKsWmPeJwN7PDrvF5/9c6b19e68db6bc812ea2491a1ea1f90b/mason-jar-cocktails-step-3.jpg)\n\n### Step 4: Attach a gift tag around the grooves of the jar and tie a knot.\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-step-4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3aef8Qdwz9BSiTfShubyrV/57caad7c50817ddbad4bf35518528769/mason-jar-cocktails-step-4.jpg)\n\n### Step 5: Hold your liquor to the knot and tie it just below the cap.\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-step-5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/v59bYskLskrAfnIy6Evx2/be4d16a0249bf77ed71a35877e5d9fe0/mason-jar-cocktails-step-5.jpg)\n\n### Step 6: Admire!\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-blissful-mary](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3qYfjBnttrPU6hlS0qb3u/169ffe7867bf850c64ae7b00ef978b9e/mason-jar-cocktails-blissful-mary.jpg)\n\nIt's that simple. Just repeat the process for the number of guests, and you'll have charming party favors for everyone in no time.\n\nTry out your personal favorite cocktail, or keep reading for more mason jar cocktail kit recipe ideas:\n\n## Bubbling Bride\n\nThis lime-less take on a Moscow Mule is perfect the perfect sparkling drink for an outdoor wedding. The light flavor and fizz of the ginger beer will be a welcome refreshment on a warm afternoon. For a clever ode to this cocktail’s usual copper mug, try tying in a copper straw. \n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-bubbling-bride](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3pj3gXxCdRyBcufMxTTYE/9c82dc9c174e181184aa7fded5b530f4/mason-jar-cocktails-bubbling-bride.jpg)\n\nWhat you’ll need: \n- Mason jar\n- Copper straw\n- Scissors\n- Twine\n- Drink tag\n- Ginger beer\n- 1.7 oz mini vodka\n\n__Mix it up:__ Not a fan of vodka? You can swap out the liquor for any other. Tequila makes a Mexican Mule, and bourbon makes a Kentucky Mule. Gin and whiskey also work! For a refined flair, try adding sprigs of lavender and a little container of lavender simple syrup. \n\nFor a bit more of a splash, you can include a powdered drink flavor packet. Cranberry and watermelon work especially well!\n\n## Apple of My Eye\n\nPlanning a winter occasion? Warm your guest’s hearts and hands with these spiked hot apple cider kits. Throw in a cinnamon stick, and you have the perfect cool-weather treat or [groomsmen gift](https://groomsmengiftideas.com/). \n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-apple-of-my-eye](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3w36Pj6x2TO4nQj9TilNWb/3cfe4bfc7a700b43b5d5e20d1c054624/mason-jar-cocktails-apple-of-my-eye.jpg)\n\nWhat you'll need: \n- Mason jar\n- Straw\n- Scissors\n- Twine\n- Cinnamon stick\n- Drink tag\n- 1.7 oz spiced rum\n- Hot apple cider packet\n\n__Mix it up__: Supply a bit of caramel flavoring, and you have yourself the liquid equivalent of a candied apple. Another fall favorite, maple syrup also pairs well with hot apple cider, lending it a decadent spin.\n\n## Blissful Mary\n\nStart your union off right with this uncomplicated take on a Bloody Mary. Still packed with plenty of spice, this kit is sure to impress even the most discerning guest. The jar contains everything you need to achieve this satisfying cocktail, with way less prep.\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-blissful-mary](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3qYfjBnttrPU6hlS0qb3u/169ffe7867bf850c64ae7b00ef978b9e/mason-jar-cocktails-blissful-mary.jpg)\n\nWhat you'll need: \n- Mason jar\n- Straw\n- Scissors\n- Twine\n- Drink tag\n- Mini tabasco\n- V8 vegetable juice\n- 1.7 oz mini vodka\n\n__Mix it up:__ As garnishes go, the bloody mary has seen it all. From celery to bacon, to full-on burgers, this cocktail goes great with anything savory. Swap the tabasco for Sriracha for a Thai twist. \n\nTo transform this cocktail into a tropical treat, skip the heavy V8 vegetable juice and pick up V8 Splash instead. Pair it with a little bottle of Malibu and your guests will be able to hear the ocean in their jars. \n\n## Mason Mar-jar-ita\n\nNothing beats the sweet and sour combo of a tasty margarita. This margarita in a jar will fit right in at a springtime party or wedding. \n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-mar-jar-rita](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2VngcjghdaXtsS2TrU2PMZ/dd49751db33adfb6093786158de95e0d/mason-jar-cocktails-mar-jar-rita.jpg)\n\nWhat you'll need:\n- Mason jar\n- Straw\n- Scissors\n- Twine\n- Drink tag\n- 8 oz margarita mix can\n- 1.7 oz tequila\n\n__Mix it up__: As one of the most re-mixed drinks around, there’s no shortage of creative ways to do something new. Shake things up by adding some flavor packets in strawberry or raspberry.\n\n## Pop the Question\nIf you’re a fan of brunch drinks, this Bellini-inspired cocktail is perfect for you. These are the perfect favor for a bachelorette party or girl’s day. Just pop the tab on some sparkling wine, add in peach-flavored vodka, and you and your besties can enjoy a bubbly beverage any time of day.\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-pop-the-question](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2UIMTYXPOY4reNiezPM8Wo/2acaa0407a862f71a9997b0bdb77e441/mason-jar-cocktails-pop-the-question.jpg)\n\nWhat you'll need:\n- Mason jar\n- Straw\n- Scissors\n- Twine\n- Drink tag\n- Can of sparkling wine\n- 1.7 oz Peach flavored vodka\n\n__Mix it up__: Here’s the secret to sparkling wine: you can add any juice to it (or none!). Substitute the vodka for orange juice,pineapple juice, grapefruit juice, or peach juice. If you prefer bubbly beverages, swap the white wine for champagne or rosé!\n\n## Cocktail Kit Gift Tags\n![mason-jar-cocktails-all](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3RCUHEyYscGAtvqAFwrEo9/8349db4620d8f32b0bc212a952af20d3/mason-jar-cocktails-all.jpg)\n\nAfter you’ve collected your ingredients, packaged everything, and tied it all in a nice bow, there’s still something missing: gift tags. Take your mason jar to the next level with a gift tag that lets your guests know how much you [care about them](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/thank-you-cards/shop)!\n\nWe went ahead and made them for you!\n\n\"mason-jar-cocktails-download-button\"

\n\n\n## Cocktail Recipes\n\nIf your wedding or party date is still far off, save a copy of these recipes so you can whip them up when it's time. They make a great touch for backyard or birthday parties, or even just as a personal treat. Here are all the recipes again below:\n\n![mason-jar-cocktails-infographic](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dQ34zAO2j1dfAAytryGwT/9fec86f34f04d97113e9a9df1d4ea380/mason-jar-cocktails-infographic.png)","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:51:48.084Z"}],"name":"Wedding decorations","slug":"wedding-decorations","description":"Planning your wedding decorations and theme just might be the best part. Whether you're searching for beautiful ceremony backdrops, color palette inspo, or unique and trendy ideas, you'll find the inspiration you need to create a picture-perfect celebration."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"wedding-ceremony-script","title":"8 Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Borrow & Printables","excerpt":"Find beautiful wedding ceremony scripts ranging from unique to traditional. Print and borrow them, or get inspiration to write your own!","author":"Allison Cullman","publishedAt":"2024-04-23T08:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2189XuQqFs1q0sSz2l1T1H/3f8c146df0bc33f66c636d2d6b4a8ea8/wedding-ceremony-happy-women-flowers.jpg","altText":"wedding-ceremony-happy-women-flowers"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","tldr":"__Inside this article:__\n- Simple wedding ceremony script\n- Modern wedding ceremony script\n- Humorous wedding ceremony script\n- Inclusive wedding ceremony script\n- Christian wedding ceremony script\n- Catholic wedding ceremony script\n- Jewish wedding ceremony script\n- Protestant wedding ceremony script\n- 4 Tips for writing your own ceremony script\n- Simple wedding ceremony script starter outline\n- FAQs about wedding ceremony scripts\n- Summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts\n","body":"In the midst of the organized chaos of wedding planning, the [wedding ceremony](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-ceremony-programs) is often left until the last minute. But the ceremony is quite significant—after all, it’s the part where you and your future spouse actually become joined in marriage.\n\nWe all know about the “I do’s” of a wedding ceremony, but the rest of your ceremony is just as important. While you want to create a [wedding ceremony](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-the-wedding-ceremony-order-of-events) script that’s meaningful and personal to you and your future spouse, figuring out how to do this can leave some couples scratching their heads. If you’re wondering where to begin writing your wedding ceremony script, our tips and examples below are here to help.\n\n![WEDDING GUESTS AT CEREMONY](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/n30m9L0eLt6IMfIFuXh8i/03120fde2eaab83389318bf88d2445ac/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-8815265.jpg)\n\n## Simple wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, an ordained minister at [Universal Life Church](https://www.ulc.org/).*\n\nFor a nonreligious wedding ceremony, there’s no standard script you need to adhere to. The script below can be a helpful starting point for a simple wedding ceremony you can build upon and personalize however you like.\n\n[![simple-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1LmmX8snQHqtavcPfdOMu2/a9ee02a4eae75c8ddfb6975c1e26b0f4/simple-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/46KpUkc8FtLwlICThYXJ9I/af9390ec0e2bff2c6da8b2e8e6777943/simple_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### __Opening words/welcome__\n\nThe ceremony will begin with the officiant addressing the reception.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones. We’re gathered here today to celebrate [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in their lifelong commitment of love to each other. Finding your life partner is a true joy, and the commitment to share in life’s ups and downs as one is no small feat. While marriage will bring its own challenges and triumphs, let this day be a reminder of what your love has already accomplished, as well as the possibilities for your partnership as you grow together for years to come.”\n\n### Reading\n\nWhile a simple wedding ceremony might omit this part altogether, some couples like to personalize their ceremony wedding scripts with a chosen reading or song to celebrate their union. A close friend or family member, the officiant, or the couple themselves might perform readings. For example, the officiant might call upon a chosen friend or family member to perform an original poem or share a story about the couple’s relationship.\n\n__Officiant:__ “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B] has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to recite an original poem in honor of their union.”\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows and ring exchange\n\nCouples may choose to write their own vows or omit reciting vows altogether.\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and lifelong commitment.”\n\nAt this point, couples may exchange their vows (if desired) before placing their rings on each other's fingers. Below is an example of vows that might be exchanged:\n\n__Partner A to Partner B:__ “With this ring, I promise to support you, care for you, laugh with you, share in your burdens, be honest with you, and be faithful to you in all that we may face in the years ahead. I promise to love you with everything I have, from this day forward and beyond.”\n\n__Partner B to Partner A:__ “With this ring, I promise to love you and commit myself to you for the rest of my life. I promise to stand by your side, be there for you always, and to find laughter and joy even in tough times. I promise to love and accept you just as you are, and grow with you for every year to come.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”\n\n__Partner A:__ “I will” or “I do.”\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, continue to deepen your understanding of them, and treat them with love and compassion in joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life might throw your way?”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I will” or “I do.”\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nFinally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as married. To capture the perfect moment, couples might also request that the officiant steps to the side for the kiss during the wedding nuptials.\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “By the authority vested in me, and with the trust of you all here today, I now declare you joined in love. You may now kiss!\"\n\n### Closing\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this momentous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![local-venues](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6bi7wx5xGOJJCvJcdAguMG/5d7b4e4cbc6b6ff7b686a802dd820b6b/local-venues.jpg)\n\n## Modern wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at [Why Knot Weddings](https://www.whyknotweddings.com/).*\n\nAny wedding ceremony can take a modern spin. Any number of personal touches can be added to your ceremony to make it more modern—whether you want to include your pets, switch up how your wedding party is presented, or simply add some modern flair to your [wedding vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows) and readings. Personalizing your wedding ceremony script is a great way to infuse who you really are into your big day.\n\n[![modern-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6vzCnZw6cVNXguGg1dXQB3/8486ec97b3c0573d552923629c75af02/modern-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/OE4YjDCj0vZUH2gcDUaea/74d3eaa2bd2214bdb77d7c85a6589078/modern_wedding_script__1_.pdf)\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\nThe officiant script will begin by welcoming the reception.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Good afternoon and welcome! We’d like to thank everyone on this beautiful day for coming to support [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in this exciting endeavor and union. Your friendship and support has helped to strengthen them as they’ve made their way to this moment, and they thank you for being here.”\n\n### Reading\n\nCouples may choose to include a reading in their marriage ceremony script. This reading can be anything you wish, whether it’s a special poem, a reading from a book, a quote from a movie, or a story about the couple’s relationship shared by a close friend or family member.\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows Exchange\n\nMany modern couples opt to write their own wedding vows or omit them altogether. It’s up to you! Below is an example of modern wedding vows:\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please exchange your vows.”\n\n__Partner A to Partner B:__ “[NAME], you’re my best friend. I’m in awe of your lightness, your kindness, and the purity of what it looks like to be loved by someone like you. It’s a love with no expectations, no strings attached, only a desire to support me and see me fulfilled. To know and be known by you is a gift and a privilege. I know we were made for each other. So here’s what I promise:\n\nI vow always to strive to be the best version of myself so that I can show up for you every single day. I vow to seek joy and hope even in dark times and be there for you when you need me. I vow to trust you and love you unconditionally. I vow to continue to learn from the examples of patience and selflessness that you have always embodied.”\n\n__Partner B to Partner A:__ “[NAME], I love you with my whole heart. You’ve loved me with a loyalty that I’d never experienced before, and didn’t even know existed. You have seen every part of me, and even at my lowest you have stood by my side. You’ve never given up on me, and I have no doubt that you are the person I’m meant to spend my life with. I vow to keep a soft heart when challenges come, and to be aware of my words and actions and how they affect you. I vow to support you in all things, to love you well, and to create a life we’re proud of. Life is fleeting, and I want to cherish every minute of it with you.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], do you take one another as partners from this day forward?”\n\n__Couple in unison:__ “We do.”\n\n__Officiant:__ “Will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We will.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have chosen these rings as a symbol of their unbreakable love. Please place these rings on each other’s fingers and repeat after me:\n\n‘I give you this ring as a reminder of our love that unites, inspires, and celebrates what we have.’”\n\n[Couple repeats to each other.]\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nFinally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “By the authority vested in me, it is with joy that I pronounce you married. Now kiss and go celebrate!”\n\n### Closing\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this beautiful occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![8 Ways to Keep Family Involved in Wedding Traditions During the Ceremony](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5iGx6d7StheHPTAAUQ0qNE/2b7133813fdc9117b12c56edbc1bb817/father_inline_nikk_nguyen_photo.jpg)\n\n## Humorous wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Rev. Lisann G. Valentin, an ordained minister at [Universal Life Church](https://www.ulc.org/).*\n\nThere’s no rule that says your wedding ceremony has to be serious from start to finish. Some couples prefer to add a bit of humor to their ceremony for a more lighthearted affair. The following funny wedding ceremony script has all the required legal elements of becoming legally married, with a humorous touch to keep your guests on their toes. \n\n[![humorous-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/JYknezhBEviEYFkJ37X5G/e94499016dbe533af5cfd30d980dbe91/humorous-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2VmtUM9YFHVOFvmkEeNKQY/c7a0a172ac2b3e5e98c7612c1a751876/humorous_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\nThe officiant will begin by welcoming the crowd and introducing the ceremony.\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Hello and welcome! We’re here today because [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] have decided they love each other so much that they want to get the government involved! But in all seriousness, a huge thanks to all who have joined us. We promise we’ll get these two hitched quickly so you can make a beeline to the open bar!\n\nI’d like to take this opportunity to ponder the meaning of marriage. Now I know I made a joke about these two loving each other so much they’ve decided to get the government involved, but we know that’s not all marriage is. It’s a tradition, yes, but it’s so much more. It might take a lot of work and compromise, but at the end of the day, this is about choosing your person until the end of this thing we call life. So no matter how many dishes they leave in the sink, no matter how horrible their cooking is, no matter how bad their mood might be on occasion—you’ve got someone who chooses to stick with you through it all. And that’s what marriage is about!”\n\n### Reading\n\nIncluding readings in your ceremony is optional, but some couples opt to personalize their ceremony with a particular reading, quote, or story. Some humorous wedding ceremonies might involve a close friend or family member sharing a lighthearted account of the couple’s relationship, with some light humor to get a laugh out of the crowd. The wedding ceremony officiant script can even include fun elements,\n\n__Officiant:__ “As our reading today, [PARTNER A/B} has asked [his, her] [friend/cousin/other family member] to share a personal story of their relationship in honor of their marriage today.”\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows and ring exchange\n\nAt this point, couples may exchange vows if they’ve chosen to write them. Here’s an example of wedding vows with a little humor:\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ “Now, it’s time to put a ring on it! [PARTNER A], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll try to keep my mouth shut when it’s your turn to choose the movie we watch.’”\n\n[Partner A repeats.]\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ “[PARTNER B], repeat after me: ‘I give you this ring as a symbol that I will love and cherish you, and that I’ll consider making you dinner every once in a while.’”\n\n[Partner B repeats.]\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ “Do you, [PARTNER A], take [PARTNER B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner A:__ “I do.”\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ “Do you, [PARTNER B], take [PARTNER A] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband, partner], to love and cherish them for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and reap as many tax benefits as you can for as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I do.”\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nNow, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:\n\n__Officiant:__ “What a romantic exchange. Now, I guess there’s only one thing left to do: By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! Now kiss!”\n\n### Closing\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “That’s a wrap on the formal proceedings of today. [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will greet you in [LOCATION] at [TIME]. We thank you for coming—now get out of here and go celebrate!”\n\n![8 Gender-Neutral Readings for Your LBGTQ+ Wedding Ceremony](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5gXI6m0GrwXeBmQWWLlcDS/32e7f7b27bf59542d48a54e57add1320/inline_kathleen_marie-ward_photography.jpg)\n\n## Inclusive wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by Sheena Wheadon, licensed wedding officiant at [Why Knot Weddings](https://www.whyknotweddings.com/).*\n\nWhile traditional gender roles often make up the bulk of how many sample wedding ceremony scripts are written, this doesn’t have to be the case for a more inclusive ceremony. The following example script does away with gendered language and puts the focus on the love shared between the couple and what that means for them. \n\n[![inclusive-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4N2pbrFFy0aVFHh4wvr4oT/04bc20b794aa915fbde8585c33a39ba0/inclusive-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3bo3vkx3BhD4WgLC4gdLPq/7decc6efb8f10a40e64bfaf134a6e495/inclusive_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\nThe officiant will begin by welcoming the reception. This is also when the wedding officiant script can include any specific announcements, like requesting guests to silence their phones.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Welcome friends, family, and loved ones! We’re gathered here today in celebration of (Partner A) and (Partner B) and to bear witness as they join their lives in marriage. On behalf of (Partner A) and (Partner B), it’s a true pleasure to have you here to celebrate this incredible moment.\n\nLove is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. Love offers hope, joy, comfort, and security, in good times and bad. Love is what spurs our personal growth and allows us to face life and all its challenges, with the unending support of the person we’ve chosen to commit our lives to. (Partner A) and (Partner B) stand before you today to share the love and happiness in their hearts as they take their relationship to a deeper level of commitment by making a passage into marriage.”\n\n### Reading\n\nWhile totally optional, couples can choose to include a reading of their choice in their ceremony. This can be anything from a particular poem or section from a book to a special movie quote or personal story about the couple’s relationship. Couples might have the officiant perform the reading or have a loved one come up to share instead.\n\n__Officiant:__ “(Partner A) and (Partner B) have selected a reading from [SOURCE] that represents their unique journey and the commitment they’re making today.”\n\n[Reading proceeds.]\n\n### Vows exchange\n\nCouples who have chosen to write their own wedding vows will recite them here. These could be in a question-and-answer format or long-form vows written beforehand (or a combination of both). Couples can also ask their officiant to step to the side during the vow readings—it helps make the moment more intimate!\n\nHere’s an example of wedding vows for you to work from:\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “Marriage is a lifelong commitment to love and care for each other to the best of your ability. Are you both ready to take this step together?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “Yes!”\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “Do you promise to care for each other, treat each other with respect and compassion, and to always move toward love in your efforts to support one another?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We do.”\n\n__Officiant to couple:__ “Do you promise to meet each challenge and triumph with integrity, gratitude, and patience, and to strive to learn and grow together for all of your days?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We do.”\n\n### Affirmation of family and friends\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “Do you, the family and friends of (Partner A) and (Partner B), give your full support today and wish them a lifetime of happiness together?”\n\n__Reception responds:__ “We do.”\n\n### Expression of intent\n\n__Officiant:__ “In the presence and witness of the loved ones you have gathered here today, I now ask you to state your intentions.\n\n(Partner A) and (Partner B), have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in the commitment of marriage?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “Yes.”\n\n__Officiant:__ “Once more, will you love, honor, and cherish one another as partners for the rest of your lives?”\n\n__Couple responds:__ “We will.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “(Partner A) and (Partner B), please repeat after me:\n\n‘I give you this ring as a symbol of the vows we’ve made today. I pledge to you my love, respect, and commitment. With everything that I am, I honor you.’”\n\n[Couple repeats to each other.]\n\n### Pronouncement\n\nFinally, the officiant will pronounce the couple as legally wed:\n\n__Officiant:__ “Now that you, (Partner A) and (Partner B), have promised to give yourselves fully to each other, to love each other through the vows you have made, and through the giving and receiving of these rings, it is my great pleasure by the power vested in me to now pronounce you married! You may now kiss!”\n\n### Closing/invitation to reception\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for (Partner A) and (Partner B)! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![A Guide to the Wedding Ceremony Order of Events](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5gM7CP5ud1ebIEp31xl5JH/85572b49599dbe5a51611c7b4e455b4d/Hero_A-Guide-to-the-Wedding-Ceremony-Order-of-Events-Kimberly-Coccagnia-photography.jpg)\n\n## Christian wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nAs the name indicates, this script for weddings includes religious aspects, such as Bible readings and prayers. Feel free to personalize this idea to your liking and include more or fewer scriptural elements. \n\n[![christian-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1ROJmdLfXwm4naZ01Ds8wx/d81ca5ee85371b0b19c9a0f0da6dfb53/christian-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3036xpBIv7MWEGUC0Qf4aD/b484d408c837cfeb61c4d05cfb813b00/christian-wedding-script.pdf)\n\n### Processional\n\nThe processional is simply the beginning of the wedding ceremony, when guests are seated, followed by the entrance of the bridal party.\n\n### Invocation\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ \"Welcome, loved ones. We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] in holy matrimony.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\nThe declaration of intent is a crucial element of any wedding ceremony, and is legally required to show consent among both parties to be married.\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ \"[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of his word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions:\n\nHave you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying 'I have.'\"\n\n[Couple responds in unison with ‘I have.’]\n\n### Reading\n\nA reading from the Bible is a common component in many Christian wedding ceremonies. While choosing a passage from Corinthians isn’t required, it’s a popular choice for many.\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “A reading from the Apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’\n\nLet us pray for this couple as they make their marriage vows.\n\nFather, as [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, amen.\"\n\n### Vows exchange\n\nToday’s wedding vows are often personalized according to whatever feels right to the couple. However, a [traditional statement of vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/traditional-wedding-vows-for-the-timeless-couple) is also common in Christian wedding ceremonies.\n\n__Couple to each other:__ “I, [NAME], take thee, [NAME], to be my wedded (husband, wife), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part. This is my solemn vow.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ \"[PARTNER A], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER B]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:\n\n‘With this ring, I thee wed.’\"\n\n[Partner A repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner B’s finger]\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ \"[PARTNER B], please take the ring you have selected for [PARTNER A]. As you place it on his/her finger, repeat after me:\n\n*‘With this ring, I thee wed.’\"*\n\n[Partner B repeats the phrase as they place the ring on Partner A’s finger]\n\n### Prayer\n\nOne distinction of a Christian wedding ceremony script is including a prayer of blessing over the union.\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ \"May Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen.\"\n\n### Pronouncement\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may kiss the bride!”\n\n### Closing/invitation to reception\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![What to Wear to a Church Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3xNVLwakY0JwANOaDWQon3/c6f876f294667a740a1540abf1bfea34/inline_kathyizzyphotography.jpg)\n\n## Catholic wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nAs with the Christian script, this version includes religious elements. However, Catholic ceremonies are greatly rooted in tradition and include formal aspects at their core. The [officiant](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-duties-of-a-wedding-officiant) is typically a priest, and these services traditionally take place in the church. \n\n[![catholic-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7LPa188lBQBu3I0ODdv70p/8aab04375b5b46d79f35bf0e5e409324/catholic-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1YvmOyZgo8EKUH4plND2Ys/7940b89cca9d4e75d80f5ec3e4c8d555/catholic_wedding_script.pdf)\n\n### Entrance rite\n\nAs the entrance song is played, the assembly stands while the priest, ministers, and servers take their places, followed by the wedding party. The rest of this part of the processional can take two forms.\n\nIn the first form, the vested priests and servers greet the bridal party at the church door, and then all enter as is customary for Mass. In the second form, the priest and servers wait in the sanctuary area prepared for the couple to greet them when they arrive. In both forms, the priest always leads the procession.\n\n### Greeting\n\nOnce everyone is in place and the music has ended, the priest leads the sign of the cross, or the traditional beginning of Christian prayer, before greeting the assembly.\n\n__Priest:__ “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy spirit.”\n\n__All respond:__ “Amen.”\n\n__Priest:__ “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”\n\n### Collect (opening prayer)\n\nThe priest invites the assembly to pray. After he prays over the couple, the assembly is seated for the Liturgy of the Word.\n\n__Priest:__ “Be attentive to our prayers, O Lord, and in your kindness uphold what you have established for the increase of the human race, so that the union you have created may be kept safe by your assistance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.”\n\n### Liturgy of the word\n\nThe liturgy of the word outside of mass usually includes three readings proclaimed by the priest, one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament aside from the Gospel, and one from the Gospel. At the conclusion of each reading, the lector will say, \"The Word of the Lord,\" and the assembly will respond, \"Thanks be to God.\"\n\n__Priest:__ “A reading from the book of Genesis 1:26-28:\n\nThen God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.” God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female, he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.” God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. The word of the Lord.’\n\n__Assembly responds:__ “Thanks be to God.”\n\n__Priest:__ “A reading from the New Testament, 1 John 4:7-12:\n\nDear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.\n\nThe word of the Lord.”\n\n__All respond:__ “Thanks be to God.”\n\n__Priest:__ “A reading from the Gospel, Matthew 5:13-16:\n\nYou are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”\n\n__All respond:__ “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.” \n\nAssembly is seated.\n\n### Homily\n\nThe assembly is seated while the priest (or deacon) offers a homily taken from the Scripture readings. The priest uses this text to discuss the sacredness of Christian marriage, the dignity of conjugal love, the grace of the sacrament, and the responsibilities of married people.\n\n__Priest:__ \"John 3:30 says ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’\n\nThose simple, direct words of St. John the Baptist, whose feast we celebrate today, summarize the life of the Christian disciple. In all things, we want Jesus to increase and our own will, our own desires, our own attachments, to decrease. In my heart, in my prayer, in my family, in my parish, in my work, in my study, in my leisure, in my entertainment - may the Lord Jesus increase!\"\n\n### Celebration of matrimony\n\nAll stand, and the couple comes to the altar, flanked by their witnesses. The priest will address the couple with a celebration of matrimony:\n\n__Priest:__ “Dearly beloved, you have come together into the house of the church so that in the presence of the church’s minister and the community, your intention to enter into marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal.”\n\nIf both parties are Christian: “Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. Through a special sacrament, he enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by holy baptism, that you may be enriched with his blessing, so that you may have the strength to be faithful to each other forever, and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of the church, I ask you to state your intentions.”\n\n### Address and statement of intentions\n\nAll stand, including the couple and witnesses, while the priest asks the couple some questions to state their intentions about their freedom of choice, fidelity to each other, and the acceptance and upbringing of children (if necessary).\n\n__Priest to couple:__ “[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], have you come here to enter into marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?”\n\n__Couple in unison:__ “I have.”\n\n__Priest to couple:__ “Are you prepared, as you follow the path of marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Couple in unison:__ “I am.”\n\n### Exchange of consent\n\nThe couple will declare their consent to be married by stating their vows. If you’re writing your own vows, they must be prepared with the wedding script beforehand.\n\n__Partner A:__ “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife]. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”\n\n### Blessing and giving of rings\n\n__Priest:__ “Bless, O Lord, these rings which we bless in your name. so that those who wear them may remain entirely faithful to each other, abide in peace and in your will, and live always in mutual charity. Through Christ our Lord.”\n\n__Assembly responds:__ “Amen.”\n\nThe priest now sprinkles the wedding rings with holy water before handing them to each partner.\n\n__Partner A:__ “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”\n\n[Partner A places the ring on Partner B’s finger]\n\n__Partner B:__ “[NAME], receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the father, and the son, and the holy spirit.”\n\n[Partner B places the ring on Partner A’s finger]\n\n### Prayer\n\nThe priest and the assembly sing or pray the Lord’s Prayer in unison.\n\n### Nuptial blessing\n\nThe couple kneels at the altar, where the priest faces them and prays over them.\n\n__Priest:__ “Now let us humbly invoke God’s blessing upon this bride and groom, that in his kindness he may favor with his help those on whom he has bestowed the Sacrament of Matrimony.”\n\n### Communion\n\nThe priest performs communion and distributes the body and blood of Christ to Catholics in the assembly, starting with the newly married couple. An appropriate song is usually sung as the assembly proceeds to the altar for communion.\n\n### Pronouncement\n\n__Priest to reception:__ “By the power vested in me by the state of [STATE], I now pronounce you [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]! You may now kiss!”\n\n### Dismissal\n\n__Priest to assembly:__ “Go in peace to glorify the Lord with your life.”\n\n__Assembly responds:__ “Thanks be to God.”\n\n### Recessional\n\nAt the closing of the ceremony, the couple, bridal party, ministers, and the priest will proceed out of the church, often accompanied by music.\n\n![Planning a Traditional Queer Jewish Wedding2_Brindamour Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1sya2SvknLGfj4YLODdGUm/a3c739ddbb1b3f76fd8eec94ccbb971d/My_project-1__14_.png)\n\n## Jewish wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nA Jewish wedding also has traditional elements, many of which are centuries old. Talk to your officiant (often a rabbi) about making changes and personalizing this wedding ceremony outline to fit your needs without breaking Jewish tradition.\n\n[![jewish-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6sS2PWSYfQiDUGFlEkkLn7/480513ae35157ca9f3705290c1a49eeb/jewish-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7fN0SjRtlIpDkzCnwRiGCf/cff48eee816a7669ec83169c084d1a41/0614_ea_jewish-ceremony-script-r__1_.pdf)\n\n### Signing of the Ketubah\n\nThe Ketubah is an ancient marriage contract that documents the commitment between the couple. Typically, the groom signs the contract with the rabbi and two male Jewish witnesses present, along with the bride, in private before the main ceremony begins.\n\n__Officiant:__ “Please gather around for this ‘ceremony before the ceremony’, the signing of the Ketubah. Bride and groom, in this quiet moment before your public wedding ceremony begins, those closest to you are here to witness the signing of the important documents that make this day a remarkable moment for you both. As you become legally husband and wife, we delight in your happiness, and we wish you only good things to come as you face life together. This beautiful Ketubah has these words for you today, and I ask the groom’s witness [NAME] to read the words.”\n\n[Groom’s witness reads the Ketubah.]\n\n__Officiant:__ “I ask you both to sign the Ketubah as the first ceremonial act of your wedding day celebration.”\n\n[Couple signs the Ketubah.]\n\n__Officiant:__ “Now I ask your parents to sign the Ketubah.”\n\n[Couple’s parents sign the Ketubah.]\n\n__Officiant:__ “And now I sign it as well.”\n\n[Officiant signs the Ketubah.]\n\n### Processional\n\nThe ceremony begins once guests are seated.\n\n### Opening words/welcome\n\n__Officiant to reception:__ “This is the day that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] marry the person they love the most in the world…the one they will laugh with, live for, and love for the rest of their lives. So it is only fitting that those closest to them are here to witness this special day. Your presence at this wedding celebration is a reminder to [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] of how lucky they are to have you in support of their union.”\n\n### The chuppah\n\nThe chuppah is a canopy structure symbolizing the home the couple will build together following their marriage. Modern couples use the chuppah as an opportunity to customize their wedding and use it as a reflection of their unique taste and style.\n\n__Officiant:__ “The chuppah under which [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] stand is the traditional structure used in a Jewish wedding ceremony. What you see in the setting for this ceremony tells you so much about the path that brings [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to be married. Today, their families are joined together, and the combined richness of their two heritages will be the foundation for their life together.\n\nAs the open sides of a chuppah symbolize hospitality, the chuppah in this ceremony invites you all to feel welcome today, for this is the day of all days that [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] want to share with you.”\n\n### Circling\n\nAfter the couple enters the chuppah, the bride/groom circles the bride/groom seven times, symbolizing building a wall of love around the relationship. It also represents the seven days of creation.\n\n### Declaration of support\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ “A marriage is a lifelong adventure. Today’s ceremony, while important, is only the beginning of that journey. Marriage is a challenge that will require [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] to have love and understanding. You must dedicate yourselves to each other, listen to each other, and be honest with each other. You will need laughter and forgiveness, tenderness and empathy.”\n\n### Sand ceremony\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ “We will now begin the sand ceremony. Through it, [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] will symbolize the permanence of the commitment of their marital relationship. They will each pour separate containers of sand into one vessel.\n\nEach of these grains represents a unique aspect of themselves. Their experiences, outlooks, feelings, and the events that shaped them into the person that stands before you. As these grains of sand intermingle in one shared vessel, they symbolize the merging of two individual lives into an inseparable pair.\n\n[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], just as these grains of sand can never again be separated, so too will you be forever joined.”\n\n### Declaration of intent\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ \"Do you, [PARTNER A], take this [woman, man] to be your lawfully wedded [wife, husband], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [her, him] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'\"\n\n__Partner A:__ “I do.”\n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ \"Do you, [PARTNER B], take this [man, woman] to be your lawfully wedded [husband, wife], to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto [him, her] for as long as you both shall live? If so, answer 'I do.'\"\n\n__Partner B:__ “I do.”\n\n### Ring exchange\n\n__Officiant to Partner A:__ \"[PARTNER A], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER B]’s finger and repeat after me:\n\n‘[PARTNER B], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’\"\n\n[Partner A repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner B’s finger.] \n\n__Officiant to Partner B:__ \"[PARTNER B], as a token of your intentions, please place this ring upon [PARTNER A]’s finger and repeat after me:\n\n‘[PARTNER A], I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.’\"\n\n[Partner B repeats the words while placing the ring on Partner A’s finger.] \n\n### Blessing of the hands\n\n__Officiant to the couple:__ \"[PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B], please join hands. Look at these hands, for they are of your closest friend. They are strong and full of love. As you join hands today, you make the promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.\n\nYour future will be built by these hands. As the years pass, these hands will love you and cherish you. The slightest touch from these hands will give you comfort. These are the hands that will hold your children. These are the hands that will keep your family as one. When you have tears of sorrow or tears of joy, they will be wiped away by these hands.\"\n\n### The Seven Blessings\n\nThe Seven Blessings are now recited.\n\n1. Blessing over the wine as a symbol of joy\n2. Blessing praising God to whom all creation proclaims praise\n3. Blessing praising God as creator of humanity\n4. Blessing praising God who created humanity in the divine image\n5. Prayer of hope\n6. Prayer for the happiness of the couple\n7. Prayer for the individual hope for happiness for the couple combined with prayer for joy in the messianic future\n\nFollowing the Seven Blessings, the couple shares a cup of wine.\n\n### Breaking the glass\n\nThe ceremony is concluded by the tradition of the groom (or bride) stomping on glass and shattering it. This signals the audience to cheer, dance, and shout “Mazal tov!”\n\n### The Yichud\n\nAfter the ceremony concludes, the final ritual takes place in the yichud or “tent of seclusion.” This is considered to be one of the most private and intimate parts of the wedding day, where the newlyweds can savor their first moments alone before the celebration continues.\n\n![couple at wedding altar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1jdRkYJr3up5XdVAnL9V53/942cbd52a04de9f723369ec963a83f12/HERO_DolcePhotography_1080x720.jpg)\n\n## Protestant wedding ceremony script \n\n*This script has been reviewed by the ordained ministers at [Universal Life Church Monastery](https://www.themonastery.org/).*\n\nThere are many denominations within the Protestant faith, and the standard ceremony for each may vary. Those with a more liberal interpretation of the wedding ceremony might be open to including more nontraditional elements in the wedding script. The script below is adapted from the Book of Common Prayer, and is just one of many possible variations of a Protestant wedding ceremony.\n\n[![protestant-wedding-ceremony-script-button](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7n7X1qx20jkIzn2iVGf0P/428295cc4912b0c60ff5af0ef742b5b3/protestant-wedding-ceremony-script-button.png)](//assets.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/51utSohJeM8kgFxmu9TkE9/d36928dd9c81858aa17a9b6b78e8cc5d/0614_ea_protestant-ceremony-script-r__1_.pdf)\n\n### Introductory prayer\n\nThe officiant, known as the celebrant, faces the couple and congregation and offers an introduction:\n\n__Officiant:__ “Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this couple in holy matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding at Cana in Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His church, and holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.\n\nThe union of marriage is intended by God for their mutual joy, for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity, and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God.”\n\n### The interrogation\n\n__Celebrant to the congregation:__ “Into this union [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B] now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace.”\n\n__Celebrant to the couple:__ “I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's word, do now confess it.”\n\n__Celebrant to Partner A:__ “[PARTNER A], will you have this [woman, man] to be your [wife, husband], to live together with [her, him] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [her, him], comfort [her, him], honor and keep [her, him], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [her, him] as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner A:__ “I will.”\n\n__Celebrant to Partner B:__ “[PARTNER B], will you have this [man, woman] to be your [husband, wife], to live together with [him/her] in the covenant of marriage? Will you love [him/her], comfort [him/her], honor and keep [him/her], in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto [him/her] as long as you both shall live?”\n\n__Partner B:__ “I will.”\n\n__Celebrant to the congregation:__ “Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?”\n\n__Congregation responds:__ “We will.”\n\n### The presentation\n\nThe presentation represents the traditional “giving away” of the bride, typically followed by a hymn. Modern Protestants may opt for a poem, romantic reading, or song of their choice in place of a hymn.\n\n__Celebrant:__ “Who gives [PARTNER A] to be married to [PARTNER B]?”\n\n__Partner A or B’s father:__ “[He, she] gives [himself, herself], with the blessing of [his, her] mother and father.”\n\n### Vows exchange\n\nSome modern Protestants might choose to write their own wedding vows, but the traditional vows most often recited are as follows:\n\n__Partner A to Partner B:__ “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [wife, husband], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”\n\n__Partner B to Partner A:__ “In the name of God, I, [NAME], take you, [NAME], to be my [husband, wife], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.”\n\n### The blessing and exchange of rings\n\n__The celebrant offers a blessing on the rings:__ “Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this couple have bound themselves to each other, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”\n\n__Congregation responds:__ “Amen.”\n\n__Partner A and Partner B place the rings on each other’s fingers and say:__ “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”\n\n__The celebrant joins the right hands of both partners and says:__ “Now that [NAME] and [NAME] have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce them [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife] in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those who God has joined together, let no man put asunder.”\n\n__Congregation responds:__ “Amen.”\n\n### Concluding prayers\n\nThe celebrant asks the congregation to stand and repeat the Lord’s Prayer:\n\n__All:__ “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”\n\nIn traditional Protestant weddings, the celebrant will direct the couple to kneel while further blessings and songs are offered. The celebrant then addresses the kneeling couple and recites another blessing:\n\n__Celebrant:__ “May God bless you and keep you; may the Lord mercifully with his favor look upon you, filling you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that you may faithfully live together in this life, and in the age to come have life everlasting. Amen.”\n\n__Celebrant to the congregation:__ “The peace of the Lord be with you always.”\n\n__All respond:__ “And also with you.”\n\nFinally, the couple stands to face each other while the celebrant offers a final line to end the ceremony:\n\n__Celebrant:__ “[NAME] and [NAME], having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as [husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife]. You may now kiss!”\n\n### Closing/invitation to reception\n\n__Officiant to all:__ “Thank you all for joining in this joyous occasion for [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]! They now invite you to join them for a reception at [LOCATION]. Thank you all!”\n\n![wedding-ceremony-songs](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7b4hCQGO7uVKySNDbx7cUr/330dd75bbf9250fec414d06a32ba71a4/wedding-ceremony-songs.jpg)\n\n## 4 Tips for writing your own ceremony script \n\nWhile writing your wedding ceremony script might feel daunting, these tips can help take the pressure off and provide some much-needed guidance on how to bring your ceremony vision to life—whatever that means to you.\n\n### 1. Talk with your partner\n\nWriting your script is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of your relationship before you enter into marriage. Talking with your partner about your ideas and desires for your wedding ceremony is an important first step—it helps you get aligned on a [mutual vision](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-create-a-vision-board) and ensures the ceremony is a reflection of what matters most to you as a couple.","body2":"### 2. Work with your officiant\n\nYour officiant can provide practical advice on how to get started crafting your ceremony script, and some might even have an outline for you to work from. Since your officiant has most likely conducted their fair share of wedding ceremonies, they’re an excellent resource for any questions you might have.\n\n### 3. Don’t procrastinate\n\nWhile you certainly don’t need to memorize your wedding ceremony script, don't put it off until the last minute—especially if you plan on [writing your own vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows). Procrastinating until the week of your wedding can add a ton of pressure to an already hectic time, so do yourself a favor and get started early!\n\n### 4. Consider the length of your script\n\nWhile your wedding ceremony script should be whatever you want it to be, being mindful of time and length is something your guests will appreciate. Anything longer than 30 minutes might leave guests checking their watches! Once you’ve written a draft and have the chance to rehearse it, you’ll find that you can pack plenty of meaning and resonance in less than 15 minutes.\n\n![modern-spin-on-reciting-vows](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5tAePFi5ZiqNmkelDuBBWP/bfa7f506e46743da3d10ecfc1560cc54/modern-spin-on-reciting-vows.jpg)\n\n## Simple wedding ceremony script starter outline \n\nNow that you’ve read some ceremony script examples, you can confidently start writing your own! No matter what you decide to include, what matters most is that the words shared are from the heart and represent what your marriage means to you. Here’s an ultra-simple outline to help you start formulating your own wedding script for officiants to use. \n\n- Officiant’s welcome\n- Short sermon to the congregation\n- Charge to the couple\n- Declaration of the intent to marry\n- [Vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/history-of-wedding-vows)\n- Ring exchange\n- Pronouncement of marriage\n- Conclusion and invitation to reception\n\n## FAQs about wedding ceremony scripts \n\nFind answers to any lingering wedding ceremony script questions below.\n\n### How do I personalize my wedding ceremony script?\n\nStart by nailing down the overall format of your script, including the order of the ceremony and the role of the officiant. Then weave in personal elements significant to you and your partner, such as customizing your vows, a special unity ceremony, or a reading that holds meaning. Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to follow a traditional wedding ceremony script.\n\n### How do I start a wedding ceremony script?\n\nMost wedding ceremony outlines start with the wedding officiant welcoming guests and thanking them for joining in the wedding day. Religious ceremonies may start with a reading from the Bible or whatever is customary for different faiths. That said, your ceremony script can begin however you like, whether that’s opening with a meaningful quote, poem, or endearing story about you and your partner.\n\n### Where can I find wedding ceremony scripts?\n\nThe best place to find both religious and non religious wedding ceremony scripts is online. You can find downloadable pre-written scripts by searching for a specific religious denomination or the mood you want your ceremony to take. For extra inspiration, search for wedding ceremony videos on YouTube to get a feel for what different scripts sound like during a real ceremony.\n\n### How long should the officiant speak at the wedding?\n\nYour officiant wedding script should get straight to the point while adding personality. Talk to your celebrant about the parts that are most important to you, such as giving a [blessing to the couple](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-blessing). However, if the sermon isn’t essential to you, feel free to shorten it. The last thing you want to do is bore your guests, so concise yet interesting is best.\n\n## Summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts \n\nAlthough there is a bit of protocol surrounding the order of service, there is a lot of freedom within with most scripts. If you’re particularly religious, you may want to chat with your priest, rabbi, or pastor about how to best adapt your ceremony. However, if you’re not planning on a religious ceremony, chat with your partner about expectations and how to go from expected to highly personal.\n\nAs you finish off your wedding planning, Zola is here to help every step of the way. Whether designing [custom wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper) or putting the final touches on your [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry), Zola has all the expert advice you’ll need to make your wedding vision come to life.\n","tag":"How-To ","updatedAt":"2024-06-10T22:34:43.105Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"heres-exactly-what-to-put-in-your-wedding-welcome-bags","title":"12 Tips on What to Put in Your Wedding Welcome Bags","excerpt":"Greet your guests with thoughtfully curated wedding welcome bags. Find perfect favors & essentials to delight your guests as they join your celebration.","author":"Laura Hensley","publishedAt":"2024-12-01T12:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3zZPEPdvLUwpkPiVDeNx3A/5f13e01c5e40872d216606d25e5ca605/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Zola image of blue wedding bag with tissue paper and a heart on front"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"__Inside this article:__ \n- Why have wedding welcome bags?\n- Ideas on what to put in wedding welcome bags\n- How to package wedding welcome bags\n- When to give out wedding welcome bags\n- Zola's expert tips on personalizing your wedding welcome bags\n- Who should receive a welcome basket?\n","body":"__TLDR:__\n- Practical things like snacks, water bottles, and a local map all add interest to wedding gift baskets.\n- You can use totes, boxes, or baskets to hold your wedding welcome bag items.\n- For out-of-town guests, have their welcome gifts ready as soon as they arrive—even waiting in their hotel room to surprise them.\n\n## Why have wedding welcome bags? \n\nWedding welcome bags are a great way to warmly greet [wedding guests](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/wedding-guests) as soon as they arrive at your festivities. These gift bags let family and friends know that you’re grateful they’re able to share your special weekend with you. Plus, wedding welcome bags are filled with items that will make guests’ experiences as comfortable—and memorable—as possible. \n\nAccording to McKenna Folmar, wedding planner at [Events by McKenna](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/events-by-mckenna), welcome gifts can make your guests feel appreciated. \"Wedding welcome bags are a delightful way to greet your guests, especially those who have traveled to join in your special day,\" she says. \"They offer a warm, personalized touch that can make your loved ones feel appreciated right from the start.\"\n\nIt's no wonder that welcome bags are particularly popular for [destination weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/destination-wedding-checklist), but they’re also super common for local celebrations. They're a nice surprise for your wedding guests that can be waiting for them in their hotel room upon arrival. \"Wedding welcome bags are more than just a thoughtful gesture; they’re a chance to make your guests feel taken care of and excited for the weekend ahead,\" says Folmar. \n\nRead on for our tips on how to build and how to package your wedding welcome bags—and when you should give them out to guests. \n\n## Ideas on what to put in wedding welcome bags \n\nAccording to Folmar, the essentials are always a great place to start. She says, \"These are items that not only show thoughtfulness but also help make your guests’ experience smooth and enjoyable.\"\n\n### 1. Welcome note\nWhat would a wedding welcome bag be without a welcome note? Your note doesn’t need to be long—a simple, meaningful message is all that’s necessary. [Handwritten notes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-write-wedding-thank-you-cards) are always appreciated, but if time doesn’t permit, try to at least sign your names in ink. Don’t forget to include your wedding hashtag at the bottom of the note, too, or any other [social callouts](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/9-savvy-ways-to-use-social-media-at-your-wedding) you want to make. \n\n[Forever Moments](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/forever-moments--2) wedding planner, Brittany Poole also added her insight. \"I highly recommend a hand written note for each bag,\" she says. Having the personalized touch of showing appreciation and adding specific anecdotes can make your guests feel extra special.\n\n![Wedding Welcome Bag Notes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XGT7i0k49aVKt2BX3OFhL/e9641c188ee4a9dba6ebe4df9a323c39/Wedding_Welcome_Bag_Notes.jpg)\n\n### 2. Itinerary\nEven the simplest wedding needs a plan. \"Including a simple wedding weekend itinerary ensures your guests are informed and know where they need to be and when,\" says Folmar. \"This can be especially helpful for out-of-town guests who may not be familiar with the area.\" For getaways or multi-day events, a detailed itinerary is crucial. Letting guests know where they need to be and when saves them from texting or calling you, or continuously logging onto your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). \n\n### 3. Map\nIf you’re hosting a destination or an out-of-town wedding, include a map of the area and suggestions of things to do. \"Providing a small guide to the area with maps, restaurant recommendations, or must-see attractions can help guests make the most of their time, especially if they have some downtime during the weekend,\" says Folmar. \n\n### 4. Contact list\nWe recommend also including a list of contacts. You can add local emergency numbers and the names and numbers of the best people to reach out to for any questions—you and your fiance will havé enough going on.\n\n### 5. Snacks\nIt’s not a welcome bag if there’s no food. Well, it can be, but your guests will be happy to have their favorite snacks. Folmar says, \"Go-to snacks like granola bars, nuts, pretzels, or candy offer a little something for guests to munch on in between meals.\" \n\nThe welcome bag snack is also a great time to showcase a local treat, like homemade caramel squares or fresh shortbread cookies from a popular bakery. \"If you want to get a bit fancier, local specialties like artisan chocolates or regional treats are a fun way to elevate this standard,\" adds Folmar.\n\n![BluePhotoNYC InlineImage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2ET2WujqYArzqjKl4KtBV5/2017e7c56f62b9dce66c73f5a8325532/BluePhotoNYC_InlineImage_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Blue Photo NYC\n\n### 6. Water bottle—or two\nThis is a necessary staple. If your guests are staying in a hotel, they may not feel comfortable drinking tap water. Offer water bottles that they can bring with them to events or can graciously grab the morning after your reception. It’s a wedding after all—people will be celebrating. Folmars insight? \"Whether guests are just arriving after a long journey or getting ready for a day of wedding festivities, having a bottle of water is always appreciated,\" she reveals.\n\n### 7. Mints\nWeddings are basically mixers for your guests. It’s a lot of small talk with a lot of people. Add in [passed hors d'oeuvres](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-tips-for-successful-cocktail-hour) and things can get, well, stale. Keep everyone fresh with a small pack of mints. Add a tin of your favorite mints and guests can throw them in their clutches or suit jackets for the night. \n\n### 8. Something personal \nYour wedding welcome bag should be an extension of you and your partner. So, add a memento that’s reflective of your relationship. If you’re a huge tea lover, give guests a bag of your favorite kind. If your partner has a notorious sweet tooth, include their favorite [chocolate bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wow-your-guests-with-a-delicious-wedding-dessert-bar). If you two are famous for your homemade jam, gift everyone a small jar. Include a little note or label to explain the item’s significance. \n\n\"Personalized items such as monogrammed tote bags, candles, or even custom koozies give your guests a little something to remember the weekend by,\" says Folmar. \"These extras show thoughtfulness and add an element of surprise.\"\n\n![vahdam-teas-set](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3KSTT5UISXMg3vKPFSORFL/40b46d46f366626ffc3ed5f9b4e177bb/vahdam-teas-set.jpg)\n\n### 9. Single-serving alcohol\nHelp guests get the [party started](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas) with a cute mini bottle of champagne, a can of a local craft beer, or a sparkling rosé. You can also gift a mini liquor bottle and a small mixer. For example, a nip of gin and a can of flavored tonic will set the evening off—or end it—right. Throw in a colorful paper straw and bottle openers for a decorative touch.\n\n### 10. Beach towels\nHaving a waterside destination wedding? Your guests will love the idea of having a beach towel to take to the beach or pool. Destination wedding welcome bags are extremely fun for couples to curate. Just choose items that will aid your out of town guests throughout your wedding weekend. Gifts + a [beach wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/pros-and-cons-of-a-beach-wedding) always equals a win in our book.\n\n### 11. Hangover kit\nHaving an open bar? Include a hangover kit in your welcome baskets. \"Hangover kits are both practical and fun,\" suggests Folmar. \"A mini hangover kit could include items like Advil, mints, an eye mask, and a hydrating drink or electrolyte powder to help your guests feel their best after a night of celebrating.\"\n\n### 12. Seasonal items\nBordering on the practical, include season-specific items for the comfort of your guests. \"For summer weddings, sunscreen, bug spray, and fans are great additions,\" recommends Folmar. \"In the fall or winter, think about including cozy extras like a small blanket or hand warmers.\"\n\n## How to package wedding welcome bags \nPackage your wedding welcome bags in a way that showcases your [wedding’s theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now) and your personality. If you’re getting hitched waterfront, for example, you may want a nautical-style tote with a rope handle. If your wedding is in a country garden, think floral-print paper bags with pastel ribbon. \n\n### 1. Gift bags\nVellum or craft paper bags are easy to personalize and decorate—and they’re budget-friendly. They also make packing and bringing them to your guests’ accommodations easy. Use a stamp or customized sticker to label each bag with your and your partner’s name and wedding date.\n\nIf you want something more playful, brand each bag with the [wedding hashtag](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/9-easy-ways-to-create-your-wedding-hashtag). Add tissue paper on top, and tie a ribbon around the bag’s handles to seal the gift. \n\n![Unsplash InlineImage 1080x720 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Ohw1ymX79s12z2bBdhOa0/422197e4daafbe545c496709223486c8/Unsplash_InlineImage_1080x720__1_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\n### 2. Tote bags\nTote bags are a take-home souvenir in and of themselves. This option may be better for smaller weddings as it’s definitely an expensive choice. You can go classic with a standard plain tote, or personalize the bags with a custom design or message. You can customize the bags with your couple monogram, your names, or just your wedding date and location. \n\n### 3. Baskets\nUnless they're collapsible, baskets may not be practical for a destiation wedding or guests who are flying. However, if you're willing to thrift and wash your baskets, this can be an economical way to provide something beautiful to house your wedding welcome present fo guests who are within driving distance.\n\n### 4. Boxes\nLike craft paper bags, paper or cardboard [wedding welcome](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-welcome-sign-ideas) boxes are easy to assemble and recycle—which is ideal for guests traveling light. Give a box the same treatment you would give a bag. Add a custom sticker, fill it with tissue paper, and add your items. It’s important to get a box that’s sturdy enough to hold your bag contents, too. \n\n![Wedding Welcome Box Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6qY7XwjAlqIyrOrQkWSkEH/1182e6ae8e53392560e925645f6dfec0/Wedding_Welcome_Box_Ideas.jpg)\n\n### 5. Burlap bags\nLove burlap? Instead of including it in your wedding decor, put your items inside of burlap bags complete with gift tags welcoming your friends and family. What to put in your welcome bag is as important as what you put it in, too. Bags made of burlap are also sturdy and pack well, meaning they're perfect for destination weddings. Your guests can use the bag for packing well beyond the wedding day.\n\n## When to give out wedding welcome bags \n\n### If you’re having a destination wedding…\nIf guests are coming from out of town at various times, it’s best to have their wedding welcome bag ready for them as soon as they arrive. \"Most couples opt to have the welcome bags delivered to the guests’ hotels,\" says Folmar. \"Coordinate with the hotel staff to have the bags placed in the guests' rooms or handed out at check-in. This way, your guests can enjoy them as soon as they arrive.\"\n\nIf possible, arrange for the bags to be ready in their rooms (if everyone is staying at the same accommodation), or have them handed out at check-in. Ask your wedding party to help organize this.\n\nThings to consider: If you’re traveling far for your [destination wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations), you want to either have your wedding bags shipped to your location ahead of time or packed carefully and transported by your wedding party. Since it’s easy for things to get moved around or damaged in transit, don’t assemble the bags until you’ve arrived. \n\n### If you’re having a local wedding…\nIt’s pretty typical to have welcome bags ready at the various hotels or other guest [accommodations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-book-hotel-rooms-for-your-wedding-guests). However, if your wedding is small or most of your guests are traveling from their homes day-of, you can also have welcome bags on display in a designated area of your venue.\n\n\"If you’re hosting a welcome party or rehearsal dinner, distributing the bags there ensures all your guests receive them at once and sets the tone for the weekend,\" advises Folmar. You can arrange gifts on a front table, stack on a decorative shelf, or have members of the [wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-many-people-in-wedding-party) hand them out to each guest as they arrive.\n\n![Wedding Welcome Gift Box Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/aN5de1DVp24ZDxGXhnBjz/a0862c7bb4979c0e51172c4ad0ad48c6/Wedding_Welcome_Gift_Box_Ideas.jpg)\nPhoto by Wijdan Mq on Unsplash\n\n## Zola's expert tips on personalizing your wedding welcome bags \n\nBeyond learning what to put in wedding welcome bags, you may also be wondering how to infuse your personality while designing gifts that really speak to your guests. Here are a few ideas from our expert team on personalizing your welcome gifts.\n- Use your wedding website to query your guests on what they like. If you're putting together snacks or drinks, you can surprise them with their favorites.\n- Also, make note if your guests have any allergies. Special diets, such as lactose-free or gluten-free, should be noted on their responses, and you can use this insight to curate the perfect goodie baskets.\n- Get ultra-personal by providing monogrammed items. An initialed travel beauty bag or personalized dish towel can add a specialty touch.\n- Have favorite products? Include them in your welcome goodie baskets. If you found an amazing natural suncreen, soothing lip balm, or game that's a surefire hit, put it inside. \n\nPoole suggests polling your guests beforehand to further curate your welcome gifts. \"Because I always recommend the couple ask their guests about any food allergies/dietary restrictions in the RSVP, the couple will also have that information to provide any alternatives to the original food/beverage selections for those specific guests,\" she adds. Poole also notes that adding his and hers food and beverages can further hone your selections. \n\nLastly, Poole recommends adding a location-specific gift to your welcome baskets. \"I tell the couple to include some type of location-based gift such as a keychain or cup,\" she adds. \"One of my bride's welcome bags had a Starbucks mug with the city they were getting married in.\" How thoughtful!\n\nFolmar also has ideas for locally-sourced treats. \"Incorporating items that highlight the location of your wedding adds a unique touch,\" she says. \"Hosting your wedding in California? Include local wine or a pack of gourmet almonds. For a wedding in New Orleans? Maybe some beignets or chicory coffee would be perfect.\"\n\n## Who should receive a welcome basket? \nOf course, wedding welcome bags aren’t required for all weddings (budgets are important, we get it!), they are a thoughtful addition that really adds to the guest experience. However, if you choose to have them, there is a bit of protocol to follow.\n\n\"As for etiquette, it’s recommended to provide welcome bags for all your out-of-town guests,\" advises Folmar. \"If budget allows, you may even consider including local guests, especially if they’re staying overnight at the hotel or attending the full weekend of events.\"\n\nAre you looking for more ways for your wedding guests to feel comfortable? Learn how to keep your guests informed about [changes to your big day](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-update-guests-about-changes-to-your-wedding) and briefing them on [what they should wear](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-wear-to-a-wedding), Zola has all the answers you need.","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-12-01T22:47:10.307Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"10-tips-on-how-to-walk-down-the-aisle","title":"10 Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle","excerpt":"Learn how to walk down the aisle with confidence on your wedding day. Practice these tips and to shake wedding nerves and look incredible in your photos.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-06T19:28:49.603Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4mxsphkEoFTD1SOr3csU9z/d5ba8ceb2b3d933a5bcdf093131f4a21/hero_intimate-modern-wedding-at-tribeca-360-36_L.HewittPhotography.jpg","altText":"10-tips-on-how-to-walk-down-the-aisle"},"heroCredit":"Hewitt Photography","body":"It’s understandable to be nervous about walking down the aisle on your wedding day. No matter how much thought and work you put into the [color palettes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now \"5 Wedding Color Palettes to Try Right Now\") and [flower arrangements](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers), at that moment, all eyes are on you. \n\nAlthough the following tips are meant to help you learn how to walk down the aisle properly during a [traditional English white wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget), customs differ widely from one culture or religion to the next. These tips can help anyone preparing to take center stage stay calm and feel more comfortable throughout the ceremony.\n\n## 1. Make Sure the Wedding Party Knows Their Part\nThe more bridesmaids and/or groomsmen you have in your wedding party, the more organized your wedding processional needs to be. If you each only have one or two people at your side, there is plenty of time for everyone to walk out individually. If you each have four or five people in your processional, pair them off to help move things along. \n\nIf you have a large wedding processional, consider sending the group out in two waves, one for each side of the aisle. They can walk in pairs if you need to save time. And don’t forget to plot out exactly where each person will stand. If need be, you can use place markers to make sure no one crowds the officiant during the wedding ceremony. \n\n## 2. Practice Your Timing\nOnce you’ve chosen the processional music, whether it’s the classic “Wedding March” or something special to you, give it a few trial runs to get the timing down. A wedding processional usually lasts around three to four minutes, and timing for groups or individuals will vary depending on the size of your wedding party. \n\nIt shouldn’t take you any more than 30 to 45 seconds to walk down the aisle. That will allow enough time for everyone to enjoy the moment and for the photographer to get a few good snaps. It may help to count in your head as you time your steps. \n\nThe more you practice, the easier it will be to get through any anxiety that may come up on your wedding day. \n\n## 3. Perfect Your Posture\nIf your clothing is flowy or heavy, or you’re not used to walking in the shoes you chose, it may be hard to stand up straight. You may also be tempted to look down at your feet. Your photos will look much better if you can maintain your posture while you walk.\n\nThe best way to keep your head level is to lift your chin and try to keep your earlobes in line with your shoulders. If you spend a lot of time looking down on your computer or phone, your neck muscles may not be used to it, but practicing every day will help. \n\nStand straight and tall. Push your shoulders back and keep them down. This will help you avoid hunching, especially if you’re holding a bouquet. As you walk, keep your knees bent and your feet shoulder-width apart. Tuck your tummy in to keep your core engaged and help you maintain.\n\n## 4. Loosen Up\nFocusing on your posture is important, but you don’t want to go rigid. \n\nYou should let your body move as naturally as possible. Keep anything you may be carrying—like a bouquet—a few inches in front of your stomach, but allow your arms to move some when you walk. And resist stiffening your neck to keep a veil or [floral crown](https://www.zola.com/blog/wedding-inspiration/ultimate-guide-to-floral-crowns/ \"The Ultimate Guide To Floral Crowns\") in place. Instead, look from side to side as you walk down the aisle and try to make eye contact with your guests as you go. (If eye contact is too much for you at the moment, you can look at people’s heads or shoulders.) \n\nEven if you feel a little nervous, you will look more natural this way, and it will make a big difference in the photos and videos. \n\n## 5. Smile\nHopefully, this will be a no brainer. If you are swept away in the moment, you will likely be unable to keep yourself from smiling, But if your nerves are getting the better of you, close your eyes and take a breath when your entrance song begins. Take a second to clear your mind before you start your walk. Relax your face and jaw muscles, and let your tongue lay slack in your mouth. Lift your eyebrows slightly, and think happy or goofy thoughts, or even something embarrassing, and smile. Small is better than big if you’re nervous, but don’t hold back once you start to feel it for real. \n\n## 6. Lock Elbows With Your Escort\nIf your mom or dad, or anyone else special to you will be walking you down the aisle, have them lock elbows with you. If two people are walking you down the aisle, have them lock arms on either side of you. That way, you will be sure to start on the same foot as each other for a smooth walk. \n\nIf you are holding a bouquet, locking arms with your escort can also remind you to keep your flowers low. Not only will it be more flattering, but it will also make sure the camera can see your outfit. \n\n![Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle IL](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/01OxryVnt6Q3Bzst6T72dM/6b64c536ed0a7243dced92814f5e6a5a/inline_sparkly-holiday-wedding-at-the-phoenix-55_AlexMariePhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits* // Alex Marie Photography\n\n## 7. Watch Your Step\nNo one wants to trip in the middle of their ceremony. If you are mindful of how you step, you can reach the end of the aisle without incident. However, you also need to be aware of what you are wearing and how it may interfere with your stride. \n\nIf you are wearing a long, flowy wedding dress, you can avoid stepping on it without having to look down at all. Each time you put your foot forward, your dress will move against the back of your leg. Wait until the hem of your dress hits your ankle before you take your next step, and you won’t have to worry about stepping on your dress. \n\nIf you aren’t a pro at wearing heels and decide to sport them for your marriage ceremony, you can get some practice in at home by walking around on the balls of your feet. This will strengthen your legs and ankles so you can stay steady on your feet. You should also break your shoes in before the ceremony. \n\n## 8. Make Time for Yourself\nWhen the big day arrives, take the time to eat breakfast and stay hydrated. You are much more likely to be stressed, woozy, or light-headed if you haven’t taken care of yourself all day. But even more essential is scheduling some time right before your grand entrance. \n\nWhile you’ll likely want to make some last-minute touch-ups to your hair or makeup before you go down the aisle, give yourself at least 15 additional minutes to use the restroom, have a glass of water, and take some time to collect yourself right before the ceremony begins. If you’re jumping from one thing to the next all day, you’re more likely to be flooded with stress the moment all eyes are on you. \n\n![Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Ux8xyBfYod2eJk9IPUHWz/0d3ef4c3e057fa46e7c4f53a8b872968/inline_cheery-bright-summertime-san-diego-wedding-16_FonyatWeddingPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits* // Fonyat Wedding Photography\n\n## 9. Don’t Skip the Dress Rehearsal\nAs much as you practice at home, you still need to do a run-through at the venue. Put on your song, make sure you have the timing right, and put on your best posture and smile. This will let you know precisely how far the walk will be and whether or not there’s anything that might trip you up.\n\nIt will also help you be aware of any bright lights that might be shining in your eyes, so you can be prepared to avoid any squinting or grimacing. The fewer surprises there are on the big day, the better. \n\n## 10. Enjoy Yourself\nIf reading anything on this list made you even more worried than you were before, you can scratch it. After all, [it’s your wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-ceremony-programs). If you are having fun, it will show, and you won’t have to sweat the small stuff. All the work you put into wedding planning is finally paying off, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by having a great time and celebrating your commitment to each other. ","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_InvitesPaper"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Explore Wedding Paper","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:43:24.648Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"wedding-memorial-ideas","title":"56 Unique Wedding Memorial Ideas to Honor Loved Ones ","excerpt":"Honor cherished memories at your wedding with thoughtful memorial ideas. Create a meaningful tribute to late loved ones on your special day.","publishedAt":"2020-10-18T21:51:12.753Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/jj4pJ80HF2Wd37qIBjbKR/a41d6f461480d972ee58014432e36d5b/hero_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Ways to Honor Loved Ones Who Have Passed at Your Wedding"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","body":"Your wedding day is a joyous occasion, but it can be difficult to celebrate in the absence of a loved one. It’s completely valid to feel the weight of the loss of a cherished friend or family member even amid such a happy time, and choosing to include a meaningful moment or gesture in your wedding is a beautiful way to honor their memory. \n\nThere are many ways to pay tribute to a deceased loved one at your wedding, and how you do it is completely personal—some might favor a public commemoration, while others might prefer a more private moment. Before you decide, it’s wise to consider the appropriateness of your idea based on your unique circumstances. This includes: \n\n- The deceased person’s relationship to you and your partner \n- The date of your wedding (some memorial ideas might be difficult if the death occurred close to your wedding day) \n- The wishes of anyone close to the deceased (it’s important to discuss with anyone who might be sensitive to death) \n- Religious or cultural considerations\n\nThe best plan of action when choosing a wedding memorial idea is to discuss it with those directly involved before a decision is made. Though your intentions may be good, it’s the most considerate approach.\n\nIf you’re all on the same page, and you’re looking for unique wedding memorial ideas, browse these creative ways to honor loved ones who have passed at your wedding, or jump straight to our infographic below.\n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas for the Ceremony \n### 1. Reserve a Seat in Their Honor\nKeep your loved one’s memory close by reserving a seat for them up front in their honor. You might choose to place their photo in the seat, or another personal item that holds sentimental value. \n\n### 2. Add a Note in Your Ceremony Program \nYour wedding ceremony program is a fitting spot to include a sincere message in your loved one’s honor. This way, everyone will have a chance to read the tribute while still keeping the ceremony proceedings uplifting. \n\n### 3. Incorporate a Reading in Their Honor \nIf you’d like a more public commemoration of your loved one, including a reading in their honor at some point during the ceremony is a touching way to pay homage to their memory. The reading could be a poem, book passage, or a quote—whatever you feel is most meaningful. If you’d rather not perform the reading yourself, you can ask your priest or officiant to step in instead. \n\n### 4. Speak to Their Memory During the Ceremony\nAn alternative to including a reading in your late loved one’s honor is to simply dedicate a portion of the ceremony to sharing about their memory and what they meant to you. Rather than reading a specific quote or passage, you’ll have the chance to speak freely about your relationship with your late loved one and share directly from the heart. \n\nBe sure to consider carefully whether or not this might become too emotional, as emotions will likely already be high on your wedding day. \n\n### 5. Include a Moment of Silence \nAnother way to honor a deceased loved one publicly (without having to actually say anything if it feels too difficult to speak about) is to include a moment of silence for them at the beginning of the ceremony. Ask your priest or officiant to work this into your ceremony order and have them lead the moment of silence. \n\n### 6. Light a Candle During the Service \nCandles are a beautiful way to pay homage to late loved ones and help signify that while their physical presence is missed, they’re still there in spirit. Light a candle in their memory during your ceremony—you can work with your officiant or wedding planner for help with where to include the special moment in your order of service. \n\n### 8. Place an Item On Their Chair After Walking Down the Aisle\nIf you have an item of your late loved one that holds sentimental value, a touching way to memorialize them during your ceremony is to carry it with you as you walk down the aisle, then place it on a chair reserved for them in their honor. \n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas for the Reception \n\n### 9. Name Something After Them\nFor a sweet tribute to a late loved one, choose something at your reception to name after them—this could be anything from the bar station (“John’s Bar”) where you serve their favorite drink, or naming a single drink after them (“Grandma’s Lemonade”). \n\n### 10. Display Framed Family Photos \nDisplaying framed photos of your late loved ones is a beautiful and thoughtful way to honor them and make them a part of your special day. Frame a selection of your favorite photos, then create an installation on your [guestbook](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-guest-book-ideas) table so your guests can see and appreciate it, too. \n\n### 11. Add Their Favorite Dishes to Your Wedding Menu\nIf you’re looking for a unique wedding memorial idea with plenty of character, consider incorporating your late loved one’s favorite dishes into your wedding day menu. This might be an old family recipe or even their favorite late-night snack—whatever it is, your guests will appreciate such a thoughtful addition.\n\n### 12. Play Their Favorite Song \nIs there a particular song or artist that meant a lot to your loved one or simply reminds you of them? Use that tune or collection of tunes in your wedding reception playlist in their honor.\n\n### 13. Dedicate Your Parent Dance to Them\nIf your late loved one is related to your or your partner’s parents, dedicating your parent dance to them is a truly meaningful way to honor their memory. You can also choose to play their favorite song or pick a song that reminds you of them for the dance.\n\n### 14. Make a Toast \nIf you’re commemorating a late family member, the [reception](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-reception-timeline) is a special time to give a toast in their honor. If you don’t want to perform the toast yourself, ask a close family member or whoever is giving toasts to share a cherished memory or sentimental story in their honor.\n\n![inline unsplash 1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2thP4DFjVikjjQFS5NewhD/e842afcef590d0230691c51f09d005fc/inline_unsplash_1_.webp)\n\n### 15. Select Touching Favors \nYour wedding favors can be used as a sweet token of remembrance, and offer a unique way to leave your guests with a piece of your loved one’s memory. This could be anything from incorporating their favorite candies or choosing something you know they loved—if your late grandfather loved cigars, for example, you could send your guests home with his favorites along with a note explaining the token. \n\n### 16. Create a Memory Table in Their Honor \nReserve a designated space at your reception by setting up a table filled with framed photos, sentimental objects, and anything else that holds meaning to the person whose memory you’re honoring. \n\n### 17. Create a Memory Box\nA unique and interactive way to pay homage to late loved ones is by creating a memory box. Have a space where guests can take a card and write down their memories with your loved one for you to look back on later. Place it on your guestbook table or on a memory table if you’re creating one. \n\n### 18. Display a Remembrance Drawing \nHaving a custom illustration made is a creative way to give recognition to late loved ones at your wedding, and with so many talented illustration artists out there, it’s a chance to create something truly special to display in your loved one’s honor. If you choose to designate a seat for them at the ceremony, you might place the illustration on their chair for guests to see. \n\n### 19. Display a Plaque or Sign\nDisplaying a plaque or sign is one of the simplest ways to pay tribute to late loved ones. Have one made (or make one yourself) with a touching message in their honor. \n\n### 20. DIY a Wooden Sign\nIf you have a penchant for creating things yourself, a DIY wooden sign in honor of your late loved one is the perfect way to pay your respects. Going the DIY route also means endless possibilities in how you choose to customize your sign, which could include names, dates, and a thoughtful message. \n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas: Sentimental Symbolisms \n### 21. Incorporate a Family Heirloom \nWhether you wear your loved one’s handkerchief, wrap a symbolic rosary around your bouquet, or carry a sentimental trinket or object with you down the aisle, there are countless ways to incorporate a late loved one’s family heirloom to feel like they’re close to you on your big day. \n\n### 22. Choose a Sentimental Wedding Location\nThere are a variety of factors that go into choosing a wedding location and venue, like the time of year, number of guests, and so on. But if you’re wedding planning in the midst of losing a cherished friend or family member, you might also consider choosing a site that holds meaning to the deceased loved one. \n\n### 23. Wear Their Jewelry or Cufflinks \nAdding a piece of your late loved one’s jewelry to your wedding day ensemble or sporting their cufflinks with your suit is a beautiful way to keep them close to your heart for each moment of your big day. That way, you’ll always wear your loved one with you, from the ceremony until the day comes to an end. \n\n### 24. Light a Candle in Their Honor\nCandles are an excellent way to symbolize that a late loved one’s memory still burns bright in your heart, even if they’re physically absent. If you’d rather not light a candle publicly during your wedding ceremony, choose a private moment to light a candle in their honor instead. It could be on the morning of your wedding day while you get ready, or with close friends and family directly after the ceremony. \n\n### 22. Pin Their Photo to Your Attire \nFor a sweet and subtle way to keep your late loved one close to you on your wedding day, place a small photo of them in an ornamental case like a locket, and pin it to your attire. You can choose if you want the photo to be outwardly visible, or you can place it somewhere more discreet so only you and your partner know it’s there. \n\n### 25. Add Their Photo to Your Bouquet \nAn alternative to pinning a photo of your loved one to your attire is to add their photo to your bouquet so you can keep them close as you walk down the aisle. Simply add their photo to a heart-shaped locket or small charm and affix it to your bouquet. \n\n### 26. Incorporate Their Favorite Flowers \nSurround yourself with your late loved one’s memory by incorporating their favorite blooms into your [floral decor](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/decor-inspiration/flowers/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers). You might use their favorite flowers in your bouquet, or use them to adorn your reception tables. You can also simply choose to incorporate flowers and plants that symbolize remembrance, like statice, rosemary, pansies, and gladiolus. \n\n![inline unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4h6kKpstWY2mNfkK97mz51/0ebd6fa561976b54b97d86e22565baac/inline_unsplash.webp)\n\n### 27. Incorporate a Special Motif \nFinding ways to incorporate your late loved one’s memory on your wedding day doesn’t have to be done traditionally. For example, maybe they weren’t fond of flowers, but they really loved butterflies. In that case, you might incorporate butterflies into your decor or favors. Anything that holds meaning to you and your late loved one can be woven into whatever part of your wedding you choose—don’t be afraid to get creative. \n\n### 28. Sew a Memory of Them Into Your Attire \nTake pinning a trinket or photo to your attire a step further by having a memory of your loved one sewn into your wedding day attire, such as a cutting of their shirt or a small monogram. Bring your idea to your seamstress for their input on how to best incorporate it into your suit or dress. \n\n### 29. Wear a Piece of Their Wedding Attire \nIf your late loved one was an older family member, a truly personal way to pay homage to their legacy is by sporting a piece of their wedding attire in your own wedding day outfit. This could mean going all out and wearing their wedding dress as your own, or simply incorporating a single piece, like their veil or tie. \n\n### 30. Set Aside a Private Moment \nIf you’d rather not put on a public display in remembrance of your late friend or family member, set aside some time for a private moment at some point during the wedding instead—either with close friends and family who knew them or even with just you and your partner. This allows for a moment of stillness amid the hustle and bustle of the big day in which you can have the chance to pay your respects privately. \n\n### 31. Request Donations to Their Favorite Charity \nUphold the memory of your late loved one by requesting donations to a special charity that mattered to them in lieu of a [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry). Alternatively, instead of providing wedding favors, you might consider making the donation yourself. Create a sign at the guestbook table indicating your donation in place of favors, along with a note detailing the significance of what the charity meant to your friend or family member. \n\n## Wedding Memorial Ideas: Quotes and Readings \nThe quotes and readings below can help you add a more personal touch to any wedding memorial signs, speeches, or readings in honor of loved ones no longer with you on your wedding day. \n\n### Memorial Quotes\n32. “As you were you will always be, treasured forever in our memory.” –Unknown\n33. 31. “In the hearts of those who loved you, you will always be there.” –Unknown\n34. “Forever remembered, forever missed.” –Unknown\n35. “May the winds of heaven blow softly, and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you, and wish that you were here.” –Unknown \n36. “Life has to end. Love doesn’t.” –Mitch Albom\n37. “The song has ended, but the melody lingers on.” –Irving Berlin\n38. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” –Irish proverb\n39. “Only a moment you stayed, but what an imprint your footprints have left on our hearts.” –Dorothy Ferguson\n40. “Gone yet not forgotten, although we are apart, your spirit lives within me, forever in my heart.” –Unknown\n41. “Your life was our blessing, and you shall never be forgotten.” –Unknown\n42. “Every life is noted and is cherished, and nothing loved is ever lost or perished.” –Madeleine L’Engle\n43. “And they all said, ‘I’m sorry for your loss,’ as if you were someone who could ever be taken from me.” –Robert Brault\n44. “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” –Winnie the Pooh\n45. “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” –Helen Keller\n46. “There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” –Gandhi\n47. “Death is nothing else but going home to God, the bond of love will be unbroken for all eternity.” –Mother Teresa\n\n### Memorial Readings\n\n### 48. William Wordsworth Reading\n“And when the stream that overflows has passed, a consciousness remains upon the silent shore of memory,\nImages and precious thoughts that shall not be and cannot be destroyed.” \n\n–William Wordsworth, The Excursion\n\n### 49. There Is No Light Without a Dawning Reading\nNo winter without a spring\nAnd beyond the dark horizon\nOur hearts will once more sing ….\nFor those who leave us for a while\nHave only gone away\nOut of a restless, care worn world\nInto a brighter day\n\n–Helen Steiner Rice\n\n### 50. Our Memories Build a Special Bridge Reading\nWhen loved ones have to part\nTo help us feel we’re with them still\nAnd soothe a grieving heart\nThey span the years and warm our lives\nPreserving ties that bind\nOur memories build a special bridge\nAnd bring us peace of mind\n\n–Emily Mathews\n\n### 51. Irish Blessing Reading\nMay the roads rise up to meet you,\nMay the wind be always at your back,\nMay the sun shine warm upon your face,\nMay the rains fall soft upon fields\nAnd until we meet again\nMay God hold you in the palm of his hand.\n\n–Irish Proverb\n\n### 52. Life Can Never Stay the Same Reading\nLife can never stay the same\nNo matter how we try\nOur hands can never stop\nThe clock of life from ticking by\nBut love remains, unchanging\nIn the care of sorrowing hearts\nFor as the love of life is stilled\nThe love of memory starts.\n\n–Unknown\n\n### 53. Turn Again to Life Reading\nIf I should die and leave you here a while,\nBe not like others sore undone,\nWho keep long vigil by the silent dust.\nFor my sake turn again to life and smile,\nNerving thy heart and trembling hand to do\nSomething to comfort other hearts than thine.\nComplete these dear unfinished tasks of mine\nAnd I perchance may therein comfort you. \n\n–Mary Lee Hall\n\n### 54. If I Should Die Before the Rest of You Reading\nIf I should die before the rest of you\nBreak not a flower nor inscribe a stone\nNor, when I’m gone, speak in a Sunday voice,\nBut be the usual selves that I have known.\nWeep if you must\nParting is hell.\nBut life goes on.\nSo sing as well.\n\n–Joyce Grenfell\n\n### 55. Not How Did He Die, But How Did He Live? Reading\nNot, how did he die, but how did he live?\nNot, what did he gain, but what did he give?\nThese are the units to measure the worth\nOf a man as a man, regardless of his birth.\nNor what was his church, nor what was his creed?\nBut had he befriended those really in need?\nWas he ever ready, with words of good cheer,\nTo bring back a smile, to banish a tear?\nNot what did the sketch in the newspaper say,\nBut how many were sorry when he passed away?\n\n–Anonymous\n\n### 56. Intimations of Immortality Reading\nWhat though the radiance which was once so bright\nBe now forever taken from my sight,\nThough nothing can bring back the hour\nOf splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower;\nWe will grieve not, rather find\nStrength in what remains behind.\n\n–William Wordsworth\n\n\n![wedding-memorial-ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1jzPxkqkpzd2pVgDLzEfkp/cb21b39a2d359c02b345356af0a79883/wedding-memorial-ideas.png)\n","tag":"How-To ","updatedAt":"2025-03-14T18:47:31.753Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"how-long-do-wedding-photos-take","title":"A Guide to the Ideal Wedding Photography Timeline","excerpt":"Your wedding photos are an important part of your big day. Learn more about how to plan a timeline that ensures you will have plenty of time to get the photos you want.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-01-20T21:53:59.472Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6YSGQJgdXFs7GGnLAdB0JC/b42c6028988e7ad383c57eafef3c00dd/Hero_Zola_02.jpg","altText":"How Long Do Wedding Photos Take"},"heroCredit":"Zola","body":"Throughout your [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/), you’ve probably put together a timeline of events for your wedding day. You’ve figured out when to start getting ready in the morning, when to leave for the venue, how long the ceremony will take, and when you will be announced to your guests at the reception. But have you incorporated a timeline for your photos to ensure you get all the shots you want? \n\nMany couples don’t realize how much time is needed to get wedding photos that look effortlessly beautiful. So, how long do wedding photos take? Let’s take a closer look at the details of your wedding photography timeline. \n\n

How to Plan Your Wedding Photos

\n\nDepending on the types of portraits you want your photographer to take ([different wedding photographers have different styles](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos)!), it will probably take you at least two hours to get all the shots. However, the good news is that the photos usually aren’t taken all at once, and the time is broken up throughout your day.\n\nMost photographers say you need about 30 minutes for wedding party portraits, 30 minutes for family portraits (close family only), and 45 minutes for couple portraits. Just remember: These timeframes can contract or expand, depending on the size of your wedding party and family, as well as the specific types of shots you want. For specifics, speak to your wedding photographer about how long they’ll need to take all the different shots you have in mind, plus how you might be able to save time. Here are some of the details you should consider as you plan the photos you want. \n\n

1. Pick Who You’ll Include in Formal Portraits

\n\n![How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? | Zola](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6I2KiXD8d9GuSXE3jwqoXS/0e1ec004961a149e27003cd624f4d90c/inline_unsplash17.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nOf course, the focus of your wedding photos will be you and your spouse. However, you will probably want to have formal portraits taken of you with your wedding party, as well as [family wedding photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). Deciding who you will include in this session can significantly impact how long your wedding photos will take. Your parents may try to convince you that you should have a formal portrait with all of your relatives, but remember that the more photos you take, the longer you will be kept away from your celebration. A good rule of thumb is to keep formal portraits limited to about 15 different groupings, including your wedding party, immediate family, and possibly a few important relatives. To help you make this decision, your photographer may be able to provide you with a list of suggested formal portrait groupings, so you know [how to edit wedding photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer) based on your needs. \n\n

2. Decide If You’ll Do a “First Look”

\n\n![How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? | Zola](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6uVnMhM1d3mlXyhe9PX49q/1549b1156768118b6061ca133f0bba66/inline_unsplash18.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Unsplash\n\nAn increasingly popular photo that couples are choosing to incorporate is a “first look.” [The first look wedding photo](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos) This photo captures the first time the couple sees each other on their wedding day, usually wearing their wedding attire and occurring before the ceremony. \n\nMany photographers suggest this option, because it gives you the opportunity to take formal portraits before the ceremony, allowing you to enjoy the cocktail hour with your guests. If you choose the alternative—to stick with tradition and wait to see each other at the ceremony—you will likely spend your entire cocktail hour taking portraits. This choice can significantly impact your wedding photography timeline, so make sure you and your partner have come to a decision before finalizing your plans. \n\n

3. Pick Your Locations

\n\nOnce you’ve decided who’ll be in your photos and if you’ll be doing a “first look,” choose where you will be taking the photos. The most obvious and easiest locations will be your ceremony and reception venues, but you aren’t limited to these.\n\nIf the hotel where you’re getting ready has beautiful scenery, you might decide to have some portraits taken there, such as the bridal party or groomsmen photos. However, you might have other specific places of importance, like a local park or a specific neighborhood in your city. While this is definitely an option, you will need to plan for the extra time and transportation required to travel to and from those locations on your big day. \n\n

Your Wedding Photo Timeline

\n\nAfter you’ve figured out all the details of your wedding photos, you’ll want to work with your photographer (or wedding planner) to create a fully documented schedule of your wedding day, including the timeline for your photos. And don’t forget: It’s useful to add five-minute buffers throughout the day to leave room for any last-minute changes. You will also want to include any travel time to move between locations.\n\nOnce you’ve established your timeline, make sure that anyone who will be included in photos is aware of the schedule, plus has all relevant details. The last thing you want is to be waiting on a relative to show up for photos, so encourage all your important people to stick to the timeline you give them. \n\n

Sample Timelines

\n\nTo help you out, we put together two sample wedding photo timelines (including a [wedding photo list](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-photo-list)!). The first is for a couple doing a “first look” session, while the second is for a couple going the more traditional route. Seeing these schedules next to one another may help you decide what you’d like to do for your wedding based on the impact that session can have on your overall timeline. \n\n### Timeline With First Look\n\n#### 11:45 AM - Wedding Photographer’s Arrival\nFrom a photo perspective, the day can’t start until the photographer arrives—which is why the first item on any wedding day photography timeline is the photographer’s arrival. At this point, the wedding photographer arrives on site and prepares to start snapping photos. \n\n#### 12:00 - 2:00 PM - Getting Ready Photos \nDuring the next phase, the couple is separated, getting ready for the ceremony with their wedding party. These photos are often candid. \n\nDuring this time, the wedding photographer may take a variety of shots, including:\n\n- The groom getting dressed with the groomsmen\n\n- The bride getting ready with the bridesmaids\n\n- The hair stylist creating the bride’s wedding day hairstyle\n\n- Close-ups of the makeup artist doing the bride and bridesmaids’ makeup\n\n- Detail shots (for example, rings, wedding shoes, bouquets, wedding invitations, etc.)\n\nIf the wedding photographer has a second shooter, they may split up—with each photographer taking photos of one half of the couple and their bridesmaids and/or groomsmen. \n\n__Location ideas:__ Wherever the bride and/or groom is getting ready—for example, their home, the wedding venue, or a hotel\n\n#### 2:15 - 3:00 PM - First Look and Couple Portraits\nIf a couple opts to do a first look, then the photographer will get the opportunity to shoot them pre-ceremony. [First look photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos) generally include:\n\n- Portrait sessions for both people (for example, bridal portraits and groom portraits)\n\n- The couple seeing each other in their full wedding looks for the first time\n\n- Couples portraits\n\nLocation ideas: Somewhere at or near the wedding venue—either outdoors (for example, in a garden or next to the ocean) or indoors (for example, in a hallway or underneath an entrance)\n\n#### 3:15 - 3:45 PM - Wedding Party Portraits\nAfter the first look, it’s time to tackle wedding party photos. This may include:\n\n- The bride with all of her bridesmaids\n\n- The bride with each bridesmaid\n\n- The bride with the maid of honor\n\n- The groom with all of the groomsmen\n\n- The groom with each groomsmen\n\n- The groom with his best man\n\n- The couple with the entire wedding party\n\n- The bride with her partner’s side of the wedding party\n\n- The groom with his partner’s side of the wedding party\n\n__Location ideas:__ Outside the wedding venue, at an off-site location with a scenic background\n\n#### 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Wedding Ceremony\nIt’s time to get married! During the wedding ceremony, the photographer will likely snap a variety of photos, including:\n\n- The ceremony location\n\n- Detail shots (for example, the ceremony programs, the flowers, the arbor, etc.)\n\n- Guests arriving at the ceremony start time\n\n- The wedding party walking down the aisle\n\n- Family members walking down the aisle\n\n- The bride and/or groom (or brides and grooms) walking down the aisle\n\n- The officiant\n\n- Any friends or family that share readings during the ceremony\n\n- The couple exchanging wedding vows\n\n- The couple walking down the aisle after getting married\n\n__Location ideas:__ At the ceremony site\n\n#### 5:10 - 5:40 PM - Family Portraits\nAfter the ceremony, the wedding photographer will take formal [portraits of the couple and their families](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). This may include:\n\n- The bride with her parents\n\n- The groom with his parents\n\n- The couple with one set of parents\n\n- The couple with the other set of parents\n\n- The couple with both sets of parents\n\n- The bride with her siblings\n\n- The groom with his siblings\n\n- The couple with one set of siblings\n\n- The couple with both sets of siblings\n\n- The bride with her immediate family\n\n- The groom with his immediate family\n\n- The couple with one partner’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with the other partner’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with both of their immediate families\n\n- The bride with her grandparents\n\n- The groom with his grandparents\n\n- The couple with one set of grandparents\n\n- The couple with the other set of grandparents\n\n- The couple with both sets of grandparents\n\n- Additional family photos as necessary (for example, photos with aunts, uncles, and/or cousins)\n\n__Location ideas:__ At the ceremony site, somewhere scenic/quiet at the wedding venue that’s away from cocktail hour (for example, a garden or ballroom)\n\n#### 5:10 - 6:20 PM - Cocktail Hour\nIf your wedding photographer has a second shooter, they will often snap photos during cocktail hour while the main photographer handles family photos. This may include:\n\n- Guests mingling at cocktail hour\n\n- Photos of your signature wedding cocktails\n\n- Detail shots (for example, cocktail napkins, signage and decor, etc.)\n\n__Location ideas:__ At the cocktail hour site\n\n#### 6:30 PM - Wedding Reception\nYour wedding reception is full of moments that you’ll want to turn into memories—and your wedding photographer will be on hand to ensure that happens. Some wedding reception photos your photographer will likely want to capture include:\n\n- The couple’s grand entrance\n\n- Guest table photos\n\n- The couple’s first dance\n\n- Parent dances\n\n- Toasts and speeches\n\n- Guests dancing on the dance floor\n\n- The garter toss and/or bouquet toss\n\n- Cake cutting\n\n- The couple’s exit\n\n- Detail shots (for example, centerpieces, decor, table signage, gift table, etc.)\n\n__Location ideas__: At the wedding reception site\n\n### Timeline Without First Look\n\n#### 12:00 - 2:00 PM - Getting Ready Photos\n\nSame as above\n\n#### 2:15 - 3:30 PM - Separate Wedding Party and Family Portraits \nIf a couple opts not to do a first look, the wedding photographer can’t do group photos before the ceremony—but they can do separate wedding party and/or family portraits. This may include:\n\n- The bride with her bridesmaids\n\n- The bride with each bridesmaid\n\n- The bride with her maid of honor\n\n- The bride with her parents\n\n- The bride with her siblings\n\n- The bride with her immediate family\n\n- The bride with her grandparents\n\n- The bride with any additional family as necessary (for example, aunts, uncles, or cousins)\n\n- The groom with his entire family\n\n- The groom with his groomsmen\n\n- The groom with each groomsmen\n\n- The groom with his best man\n\n- The groom with his parents\n\n- The groom with his siblings\n\n- The groom with his immediate family\n\n- The groom with his grandparents\n\n- The groom with any additional family as necessary (for example, aunts, uncles, or cousins)\n\n- The groom with her entire family\n\n#### 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Wedding Ceremony\nSame as above\n\n#### 5:15 - 6:15 PM - Couple and Group Portraits \nIf there’s no first look, the couple will take both couple’s and group portraits after the wedding ceremony. This may include:\n\n- Photos of the couple\n\n- The couple with their entire wedding party\n\n- The couple with one set of parents\n\n- The couple with the other set of parents\n\n- The couple with both sets of parents\n\n- The couple with one set of siblings\n\n- The couple with the other set of siblings\n\n- The couple with both sets of siblings\n\n- The couple with one person’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with the other person’s immediate family\n\n- The couple with both of their immediate families\n\n- The couple with one set of grandparents \n\n- The couple with the other set of grandparents\n\n- The couple with both sets of grandparents\n\n- The couple with one person’s entire family\n\n- The couple with the other person’s entire family\n\n- The couple with both of their entire families\n\n#### 5:15 - 6:20 PM - Cocktail Hour\nSame as above\n\n#### 6:30 PM - Wedding Reception\nSame as above\n\nAs you can see from the timelines above, the “first look” photos can give you more time to enjoy being with your guests after the ceremony. However, if you choose to stick to a more traditional timeline and wait to see each other at the ceremony for the first time, you will still be able to take all the photos you want. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as a couple and what works best for your wedding day.\n\n## Things To Consider When Developing Your Wedding Day Photography Timeline\nNeed more insights in to how to navigate your wedding day timeline? Here are a few things to keep in mind:\n\n- __Stick to the timeline...__ Your wedding photographer has a timeline for a reason! The timeline is created to ensure they have enough time to capture all of the shots you’ll want from your wedding day—so make their lives easier by sticking to the timeline as much as possible.\n\n- __...but also be flexible.__ Ideally, you’ll stick to your wedding photography timeline—but things happen that may throw you off course (for example, it may take you longer to get ready than you originally planned or there may be a delay in getting to your first look location). Make sure to stay flexible and allow your photographer to switch things up as necessary.\n\n- __Keep awkward moments to a minimum.__ Your wedding photographer is there to capture happy moments—not awkward ones. Think about any potential awkward interactions—and make a plan to deal with them. (For example, if you have divorced parents that can’t be in the same room, make sure to let your photographer know so she can schedule those family portraits separately.)\n\n- __Make sure to account for transportation time.__ If you’re taking photos at multiple locations, make sure to build transportation time into your timeline.\n\n- __Don’t be afraid to ask for a redo.__ If something feels off about your photography sessions—for example, you don’t like where you’re snapping your bridal party photos or the sky is too dark and cloudy for your liking—don’t be afraid to ask your photographer to either retake the photos or rethink their approach and offer other options.\n\nWhile it may be tempting to figure out your wedding photos on a whim throughout your wedding day, ensuring you get all the shots you want will require some planning. Start by deciding who you want to take photos with and where they will be taken. Then, as a couple, choose whether or not you want a “first look” photo. Work with your photographer to get a better sense of how long they need to get high-quality shots. And finally, create a detailed timeline for your wedding day, then share it with all the appropriate people. Taking these steps will ensure your big day runs smoothly, so you can enjoy being in the moment—and enjoy getting back your wedding photos after your big day. (Don’t forget to ask about turnaround time!)","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"You’ll be reminiscing on your wedding photos for years to come. These questions to ask wedding photographers will help you hire someone whose style you love!","title":"41 Questions to Always Ask Wedding Photographers","slug":"questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/vgfhrVNYXugnG7eH6LqqG/dbb3c765ebf137ed1cb3ffb07b571607/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-hero.jpg","altText":"A wedding photographer shows a couple a photo she captured of them during their photoshoot. "},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:32.400Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day"},"slug":"affordable-rehearsal-dinner-ideas","title":"Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas","excerpt":"A rehearsal dinner should be about excitement and anticipation—not the costs. Here are cheap rehearsal dinner ideas from Zola.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-09-29T04:41:26.496Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4xVQpZoBKXEPIyxsp4Il5q/cdf04678e673b19dc6aabcfcbd2cbe3a/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Rehearsal dinners can be as elegant or as laid-back as you want them to be—and an event that allows you to let loose before your wedding day. \n- Keep your rehearsal dinner affordable by holding it at home, a public park, or another low-cost venue. \n- Book buffet-style catering or coordinate a pot-luck dinner in order to reduce food costs. Get creative with decorations by making them yourself or upcycling objects you may already have lying around your home. \n- Pick a theme for your rehearsal dinner that fits your aesthetic and allows you to decorate and cater the event without putting too much of a strain on your budget. ","body":"Bringing people together to celebrate your love doesn’t always bring the same degree of excitement to your wallet as it does to you and your partner. High costs can seem to creep up out of nowhere even for a more intimate occasion like the wedding rehearsal dinner. For a memorable night with family and friends that’s exquisite and easy on the budget, follow along. \n\nIn this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to know from rehearsal dinner basics to creative ideas that will bring radiance and spending relief. Focus more on the wedding-day walk-through and on cherishing small moments—we’ll help you take care of the rest. \n\nHere’s a closer look at what you’ll find below:\n\n- Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know\n- How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly\n- Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas\n- Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos\n- Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner\n\n## Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know \nRehearsal dinners are more than just a walk-through of the ceremony. The post-rehearsal time is an opportunity to sneak extra hugs, conversation, and dancing with your closest friends and family members. \n\nBefore handing out a few tips about how to put on an affordable event, let’s first talk a bit more about what a rehearsal dinner actually is. Who comes? When does it typically happen? Find answers to these questions and more below. \n\n- The what: A rehearsal, of course! You’ll do a general practice of the ceremony from top to bottom to coordinate details such as music, entries, and where to stand. The best part is dinner and drinks afterward with your inner circle of loved ones. \n\n- __The who:__ As wedding tradition goes, the rehearsal dinner is generally reserved for you, your partner, the wedding party, the officiant, and anyone else who may hold a spot on the ceremony program. Some couples may choose to expand the guest list to include a few more family members and friends. Talk this through with your partner to see just how big or how small you’d like to keep things. \n\n- __The where:__ That’s entirely up to you. We’ll give you a few rehearsal dinner venue ideas below, but there are no rules that dictate where exactly you should hold your rehearsal dinner. From seaside soirees to park picnics, the choice is yours.\n\n- __The when:__ Most couples opt to host their rehearsal dinner on the day before their wedding day, as this ensures that all the ceremony dos and don’ts are fresh in everyone’s minds. If you choose to do it sooner, let your wedding guests know so that they can adjust their schedules. \n\n- __The why:__ To go over last-minute details to make sure that there aren’t any hiccups on the day of your wedding. It’s also a time when you and your partner can express thanks to friends and family members for all of the time and effort that they’ve put in to help realize your wedding-day dreams. \n\nNow that you’re familiar with some of the basics, let’s talk about the budget. \n\n## How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly \nIt’s no secret that weddings can often come with a high price tag. Some couples prefer to go all out for their big day and for additional wedding-related events such as the rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunches. \n\nBut if you’re the type of duo who would prefer to keep spending low for the wedding in order to invest more in a lavish honeymoon or a new home, you’re in the right place. Just because you’d rather keep your celebration budget-friendly, doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice elegance and refinement. Cheap rehearsal dinner ideas do not equate to tacky and tawdry. \n\nHere are a few ideas to help you plan an affordable rehearsal dinner that’s both well-organized and well-polished. \n\n- __Do it at home.__ Whether it’s at your residence or a family member’s, having a backyard or patio gathering is a savvy way to avoid the high costs of booking a venue or renting out space at a restaurant. Plus, it allows you to have full control over all the details such as decor, duration of the event, and dinner choices. \n\n- __Find a low-cost venue.__ If you don’t quite have the space to host an event at home, consider another low-cost alternative such as a public beach or park. It gives you just as much freedom to decorate and tailor it to your liking without the pressure of getting your house event-ready. However, it might not be completely free, so be sure to ask about the cost of a permit and how to go about reserving the space for the date you need. \n\n- __Book a space within your price range.__ Not a fan of backyard barbecues or public park gatherings? Use the Zola Vendor Search tool to find a ready-made venue that’s within your budget. Filter through the available spaces by price, setting, and capacity to find one that works with your vision and your wallet. \n\n- __Coordinate a potluck.__ Especially if you opt for an at-home affair, you can join forces with your rockstar wedding crew and eager-to-help family members. Set up a spreadsheet with plenty of time to spare for people to sign up for different dishes. It doesn’t get much more affordable than this and you’ll probably find that people are happy to contribute in any way that they can. \n\n- __Opt for buffet-style catering.__ If you’d rather leave the cooking to the professionals, elect to hire a catering service. Ask about buffet-style dinner options since this will allow you to keep a fixed cost per person instead of opening it up for guests to order individual meals and drinks. \n\n- __Ask about your venue’s event policies.__ If you’ve reserved a date and time for your rehearsal dinner at a hotel or restaurant, ask them to be upfront with you about the total costs. You’ll need to pay the rental fee for the locale, of course, but it would be important to find out if there are any minimum spending requirements for food and drinks.\n\n- __Ask a creative friend for a favor.__ You’ve already booked a photographer for your wedding day but you’d like to get a few snaps of you, your partner, and your crew at the rehearsal dinner too. See if one of your friends who’s got an eye for photography wouldn’t mind documenting a few special moments throughout the night. They might offer to do so free of charge, but consider thanking them for their efforts with a bottle of wine or a gift card to their favorite eatery. \n\n- __Opt for handmade decorations.__ The internet is chock-full of good ideas for DIY decorations. You might be surprised to find that most projects are fairly easy to succeed at too, so you won’t need to be a master crafter to pull it off. From upcycled picture frames and shutters to wood-burned coasters, the sky’s the limit when it comes to handmade, budget-friendly decor. \n\nNow that you’ve packed your brainstorm list to the brim with affordable rehearsal dinner ideas, let’s see how you can pull them all together. Get your creative juices flowing a bit more in the next section where we’ll help you tie your ideas together into a charming and cohesive rehearsal dinner theme. \n\n## Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas \nNot quite sure where to start when it comes to choosing a theme for your rehearsal dinner? Sometimes all you need are a few ideas to help nudge you in the right creative direction. Get some inspiration from the following and feel free to adapt them to fit your own unique vision. \n\n- __Piazza pizza party –__ Look to Venice, Italy for your inspiration for this budget-friendly theme. Decorate your back patio with lights, greenery, and maybe even a small garden fountain to channel the aesthetic of an Italian piazza. For dinner? Pizza, of course! It’s always a crowd favorite and something that’s quick and easy to put together. It feeds a number of people, too, so getting it catered by a local ristorante shouldn’t run up a high bill. Set up a gelato bar for dessert and include a station for guests to add their own toppings. \n\n- __Backyard barbecue –__ If you’d rather opt for a more casual theme, take advantage of backyard space for some grilling and lawn games. The venue is free, of course, and it will give you and your crew a chance to be comfortable and informal before having to dress to the nines on the following day. Coordinate a potluck, if you want, and include some classic homestyle dishes such as macaroni and cheese or potato salad to pair with the barbecue burgers and kebabs. \n\n- __Parisian charcuterie picnic (aka grown-up Lunchables) –__ Save yourself some time with a simple, yet classy charcuterie spread. Take a quick trip to your local bulk store (think Costco or Sam’s Club) to pick up an assortment of deli meats, pre-sliced cheeses, crackers, and bread for a delectable, self-serve rehearsal dinner. You can also purchase plenty of fruit and veggie plates for a balanced meal. \n\nAdd a few checkered tablecloths and some tapered candles in wine bottles, and you’ll have a little taste of Paris the night before your big day. \n\n## Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos\nSince you’ve been planning your wedding, you’re probably no stranger to lists by now. The number of to-dos that pile up for wedding day details can be a bit overwhelming at times. \n\nKeep everything in order and in one place by customizing your task list at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist). Plus, our app is designed to send you notifications whenever a deadline is approaching. The good news? You can use this handy tool for your rehearsal dinner checklist, too. \n\nNot sure where to begin when it comes to prioritizing tasks? Here’s a list of things to get you started down the aisle on the right foot. \n\n- __Set up a budget –__ You might already have a budget set for the wedding day itself, but it’s a good idea to make another one for your rehearsal dinner too. Even though you’re catering to a smaller crowd, costs for food, decorations, and wedding party gifts can add up quickly. Work out with your partner and your families how much you’re willing to spend, and then do your best to adhere to it. \n\n- __Decide who to invite –__ As we mentioned before, this event is typically reserved for your closest family members, your wedding crew, and anyone playing a part in the ceremony itself. Feel free to do things your own way by opening it up to plus-ones or a few extended family members. However, just be mindful of how that might affect the budget before doing so. Another idea is to keep the dinner to just your inner circle, and then open a space up later in the night for more guests to stop by for mingling and a few pre-wedding day cocktails. \n\n \n- __Pick a theme that works with your wedding style –__ Modern and formal? Or, vintage and bohemian? Your rehearsal dinner can be a design extension of your wedding day and an opportunity to weave in a few recurring motifs throughout the entire weekend. Or, you can change things up completely by hosting a dinner with its own unique style and personality. If the wedding day is a black-tie affair, perhaps you’d prefer a casual beachfront barbecue for your rehearsal dinner. Whatever you decide, use the theme as a base from which all other details will extend. \n\n- __Choose and book the venue –__ If budget consciousness is a priority for you, picking a venue can be an opportunity to save big or not. Even for small groups, some [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) may cost a pretty penny just to reserve the space and could even require a minimum tab for food and drinks. An at-home event won’t cost you anything to book the space, of course, but it may require more investment in details such as decorations and floral arrangements. Decide what’s most important to you in an event space and give yourself plenty of time to book in advance. \n\n- __Coordinate catering –__ If you’ve chosen a restaurant or a hotel function hall, you might not even need to give catering much of a second thought. These spaces are well-oiled machines when it comes to hosting events and probably already have menu options and in-house catering services ready to go. If you’ll be celebrating at a park or at home, you and your partner will have to work out these details yourselves. Shop around to find something that satisfies your flavor palette and budget, or consider cooking a few dishes yourself. \n\n- __Send out the invitations –__ Pardon the obvious, but if you’re hosting an event your guests will need to know where to go and what time to be there. Your wedding party is probably already expecting a pre-wedding walk-through as part of their duties, but be sure to clue them in on the details of the dinner and the rehearsal itself so they can add it to their schedule. Consider coordinating [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) to match the theme of your dinner. A few floral accents would be well-suited for a garden party, or you can establish elegance with a gold metallic foil. \n\n- __Create a playlist –__ You don’t necessarily need to book a DJ or a band for your rehearsal dinner (unless you want to, of course) but some background music for mealtime and mingling could be a nice touch. Curate a playlist to your liking for an at-home affair or check with your venue to see if you’re able to provide your own music. If you’ve got a family or friend who is musically inclined, you might consider asking them to play a few songs for a laid-back dinner—complete with sing-alongs and dancing. \n\n- __Include a few fun activities –__ You and your guests are there to take care of the logistics before the big day, but don’t forget to have fun, too. Beyond dinner and drinks, consider adding a few games and activities to let loose the night before your ceremony. Lawn games and Jenga are always a hit. Or, you can encourage people to get creative by setting up a DIY table for crafting or scrapbooking. \n\n- __Say thank you and enjoy the company –__ This will likely be your last event with family and friends as an unmarried couple. Soak in those moments with the people who have come from near and far to rally behind your love story before the wild ride of married life takes off. Consider taking this opportunity to send out a thank you to them too. A handwritten note is a simple, heartfelt gesture; or, shop for a few small gifts that your wedding party will be able to have as a keepsake for years to come. \n\nWhen it comes to weddings our well never runs dry. Stay tuned for more rehearsal dinner hacks in the section below. \n\n## Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner \nFeeling just about ready to dive into the planning part of your rehearsal dinner? Before you go, let’s send you off with a few more tips and tricks to ensure a smooth and stylish soiree. Add this advice to your checklist for you to come back to whenever you need a reminder. \n\n- __Don’t forget to keep an eye on mother nature.__ Some weather is unpredictable, but keep tabs on the forecast in the days leading up to your rehearsal dinner in case you need to make any last-minute adjustments. \n\n- __Incorporate a taste of the town.__ Whether you’re celebrating in your backyard or in an upscale restaurant, pay attention to what makes this part of the world different from others. Include some local flavors made famous in that region or any seasonal treats that are hard to find elsewhere. \n\n- __Let your wedding guests know the best way to dress.__ Being clear about attire is important, especially for your rehearsal dinner. If you have any activities planned that require a change of clothes, give the invitees a heads-up so that they can pack accordingly. Additionally, if you’ve opted for a laid-back get-together, tell your friends and family that it’s okay to keep it casual. \n\n- __If you’re hosting at home, be sure to give your attendees clear instructions about how to arrive.__ Particularly if your home or the event space is located in a remote area where cell service is sparse, be in touch with them ahead of time in order to avoid losing a friend down a country back road. \n\n## Design Your Dream Rehearsal Dinner at Zola \nThe rehearsal dinner may just seem like one more thing you have to plan on top of your wedding day, but given the right tools and tricks, it can actually be quite easy and fun. Especially, when you let [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) help you take care of the essentials. \n\nHere at the hub of all things wedding related we believe in:\n\nHelping you celebrate your love through every step of the [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) process.\n\nSharing the news of your wedding day and the details of your love story on your very own, easy-to-customize [free wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website).\n\nConnecting you with the right florists, photographers, and other [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to bring each piece of the planning puzzle together into one picture-perfect event.\n\nYour rehearsal dinner is already starting to take shape. Keep molding the magic right here at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/).","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:45.440Z"}],"name":"Wedding day","slug":"wedding-day","description":"Advice to make your wedding day go smoothly from start to finish. From ceremony timelines to wedding favor ideas to writing your vows, our experts help you plan the perfect wedding day."}],"featured":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding planning 101","slug":"wedding-planning-101"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding planning tools","slug":"wedding-planning-tools"},"slug":"wedding-planning-guide","title":"Wedding Planning 101: Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding","excerpt":"Your guide to planning a wedding from start to finish. Learn about all of our free wedding planning tools and so much more to help you on this journey!","publishedAt":"2023-12-07T16:53:05.833Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5C3xgAOgu8EhsWuHR6LIPV/df4a2c1fcad988921c26d259ba076b3a/wedding-planning-guide-hero.jpg","altText":"bride and groom under veil"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","tldr":"## Inside this article\n\n- Wedding Planning Timeline\n- Wedding Planning Checklists & Glossary\n- Creating a Wedding Budget\n- Choosing a Wedding Venue\n- Making a Wedding Website\n- Wedding Planning Tools\n- Selecting Your Wedding Vendors\n- Wedding Decor & Themes\n- Legal To-Dos\n- Wedding Planning Questions\n- Real Weddings","body":"You’re in love, you’re engaged, and you’re seeing the world through rosé-tinted glasses of celebratory champagne. Cheers! We are SO here for this. And you know what else we’re here for? You, planning your special day like a total pro. We know what you’re thinking: Can I really plan my own wedding? Between the vendors, the invitations, and the décor, wedding planning seems like a massive undertaking.\n\nTrust us on this one, though: You can [plan your own wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-you-yes-you-can-plan-your-whole-wedding). Whether you want to save money or simply enjoy creative projects, wedding planning can be a fulfilling experience. Couples just like you do it every day. It doesn’t even have to be overwhelming with the right organizational tools and timelines — and don't worry, we've got you covered on both counts. Our handy wedding planning guide will help you handle all the to-dos before “I do!”\n\n## Wedding Planning Timeline\n \n\nBefore you plan your wedding, you need to plan for planning your wedding. And no, that’s not as crazy as it sounds! In fact, creating an outline of important tasks, dates, and deadlines will keep your stress levels low and your productivity high throughout the planning process. Then again, why create one yourself when we’ve already done it for you? Allow us to introduce our definitive [wedding planning timeline](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist).\n\nOur printable checklist breaks down all your important milestones by month and effectively walks you through two years’ worth of wedding planning, from your first kiss as fiancés to your last wedding day dance. We’ve ensured that all major events are included, and you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment with every checked-off item. Sticking to a schedule truly makes all the difference.\n\nWhile you’re at it, create a timeline for your wedding day (or wedding weekend, if you’re doing the traditional rehearsal dinner and morning-after brunch). It can be as detailed as you like, but we recommend planning your wedding by the hour. The more effort you put into outlining events, the easier it will be to relax and enjoy them. For a breakdown of a standard wedding day’s events including tips and time estimates, check out our [wedding weekend timeline](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/ultimate-wedding-weekend-timeline).\n\n## Wedding Planning Checklists & Glossary\n \nWhen you’re planning a wedding, keeping track of tasks is almost as important as completing them. Our [wedding planning checklist](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist) will help you stay organized and send you friendly reminders to ensure you never miss a deadline. You can even delete, edit, and add tasks as your wedding plans evolve. Oh, and it’s free — regardless of whether you register through our [online store](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) or use our [stationery](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper). Consider it an engagement gift from Zola to you.\n\nAside from regularly checking in with your checklist, you may want to brush up on some wedding planning language. In the world of weddings, “charger” and “train” may not mean what you think they mean. Our [glossary of wedding planning terms](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/your-wedding-planning-glossary-a-z) covers common words you’re bound to hear during the hustle and bustle of orchestrating your nuptials, so you’re not left scratching your head after a call with that caterer (or that pun we just made).\n\n## Creating a Wedding Budget\n \nIt’s tempting to dive right into visiting venues, hunting for the perfect attire, and curating your reception playlist — but first, budget! While it’s not the most romantic aspect of wedding planning, tackling financial details is one of the first things you should do. Why? Because weddings can be expensive.\n\nThe operative word here is “can.” They don’t have to be expensive. In fact, it’s completely possible to plan a dreamy wedding for way, way less than the average cost of $29,195[1]. If you’re wondering [how to plan a wedding on a budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding-on-a-budget), you’ve come to the right place. And once we get budgeting out of the way, we promise we’ll move on to the fun stuff!\n\nTo determine your budget, ask yourself a few important questions:\n\n- __Who’s footing the bill?__ If you’re paying for the wedding yourself, you know how much money you want to spend — but remember to clearly communicate with your partner to make sure there are no surprises. If you’re expecting contributions from family members, you’ll want to determine exactly how much they’re willing to spend before you make any assumptions (or deposits).\n\n- __What’s the best use of my funds?__ Once you’ve figured out how much money you have to spend, it’s time to decide how you’ll spend it. Not only does budgeting help you manage your expectations (and save you the disappointment of realizing you can’t afford that $10,000 ballgown), but it also encourages you to prioritize your purchases. Do you care more about your location or your attire? Your guest list or your dinner menu? The occasional tough choice must be made, but remember, it’s all about what will ultimately make you happiest.\n\n- __How can I save money?__ If your budget is tight, there are countless ways you can save money. Get married on a weekday, snag that wedding dress at a sample sale or trunk show, or skip fancy wedding invitations and provide a simple liner that directs guests to your website. Pro tip: Sometimes it’s as simple as removing the word “bridal” from the equation — for instance, a bridal bouquet will cost more than regular flowers and a bridal hairstyle will be far more expensive than your standard blowout.\n\nIn addition to answering all of the above, determine how much of your budget you’ll allocate to each wedding expense and monitor your spending with a [wedding budget calculator](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) like this. The wedding venue will likely be your biggest investment, so determine how much you’re willing to spend on your event space and then divide your remaining funds among other major expenses like catering, wedding rings, photography, flowers, and music. And speaking of your wedding venue…\n\n__Expert Advice:__ We make budgeting fun and stress-free. Find all of our articles about [Wedding Budgets](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/planning-101/budgeting) here.\n\n## Choosing a Wedding Venue\n \nAside from choosing to get married, choosing where to get married is one of the biggest wedding decisions you’ll make. Your venue quite literally sets the scene for your special day. It should fit your carefully set budget, work with your schedule, and reflect your personal style — suffice to say, there’s a lot to consider. Fortunately, Zola makes it easy to discover, contact, and [book venues online](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues). We also have a few [tips for choosing your wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue):\n\n- __Decide what you want.__ Easier said than done, we know, but you don’t have to go at it alone. Set a time to sit down with your fiancé and bounce ideas back and forth. First off, decide whether you want to have your ceremony and reception at the same location. If not, you'll need to search for two venues. Then, try to picture your dream wedding. Does the ceremony take place in a country club or in a church? Are you after a bohemian or black-tie affair? Think about how you want your wedding to look and feel, and let that be your guide.\n- __Consider your guests.__ It’s a fact: Your wedding venue will impact your guest list. Not just due to its capacity, but due to its location. Weddings are expensive for your guests, too, and selecting a faraway venue will inevitably result in fewer attendees. A destination wedding can be a great way to guarantee a more intimate ceremony. If you’d like a good turnout, keep it local so your guests don’t have to shell out for accommodation.\n- __Start researching.__ Familiarize yourself with the areas you’re considering and the average venue rates in those areas. Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a few venues, gather information about those specific venues like their capacity, amenities, and whether onsite services are provided.\n- __Explore alternatives.__ It’s possible to forgo an official venue altogether. Say your parents have a lovely backyard or your aunt has a lake house you’ve always adored. If they’re willing to let you set up shop for the day, you’ve just scored yourself a free venue! Many public parks and beach spots in the U.S. are also available for events; you’ll pay a fee, but it’ll be much less than the cost of a standard venue.\n- __Schedule tours.__ This is the fun part. When you start visiting venues, it starts feeling real. Make a day of it with your significant other and a couple of close friends or your parents (especially if they’re helping you pay for it). Accept their input, but follow your instincts. If a wedding venue doesn’t feel like the one, it probably isn’t.\n- __Ask questions.__ Before your venue visit, assemble a list of questions to ask your tour guide. During your tour, take notes and photos. They’ll come in handy when you reflect on the experience later. Most venues offer wedding venue floor plans, which can be customized to illustrate your wedding and help you envision your wedding in the space.\n- __Scope out the surrounding area.__ Get to know the areas surrounding your top venues. If guests will be traveling to your wedding, check out nearby hotel and vacation rental options so you’ll have suggestions for them.\n- __Weigh your options.__ Once you've visited a few venues and chosen your favorites, it's time to compare and contrast. A pro/con list can be helpful here! Consider the venue price, space, whether it fits your vision, and how it made you feel.\n- __Book your venue.__ Some popular wedding venue locations are booked out years in advance, so you’ll want to secure your spot sooner rather than later. We’d recommend doing this at least nine months before your wedding or perhaps even further in advance if you’re getting married during a popular wedding month (May through October).\n\nThe decision is a big one — but once you choose your wedding venue, other aspects of your wedding will start falling into place. The time of day you want to get married, whether you’ll have an indoor or outdoor wedding, and where you’ll take your photos will become clearer once you can visualize your location. Your next step? Make a wedding website so your guests can start planning, too!\n\n__Expert Advice:__ See all of our articles on [Choosing a Wedding Venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/planning-101/venues) for more insight into the process!\n\n## Making a Wedding Website\n \nOnce you’ve set the date, booked your venue, and prepped your [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), it’s time to create a website. Ideally, you’ll do this about six to eight months before your wedding. A wedding website serves as a hub for you and your guests. It’s where your invitees can go to RSVP, check out your wedding details, peruse your registry, and “aww” at your engagement photos. It’s also where you can go to review your RSVPs, update your event and registry information, and “aww” at your own engagement photos (don’t worry, we all do it).\n\nIn this modern world, a website is a pretty essential component of a wedding.\n\nThe good news? You don’t need to be a web designer to make a wedding website. You don’t even need to be creatively inclined. At least, not with us by your side! With tons of templates and a user-friendly interface, our [wedding website builder](https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/wedding-website) makes it easy to create a professional, beautiful website in no time at all. \nHere’s how:\n\n- __Step 1: Pick your platform.__ It doesn’t have to be Zola…but for the sake of this how-to, let’s say it is. Our website builder isn’t just accessible — it’s also free! Your budget can thank us later.\n- __Step 2: Select a template.__ Did we mention we have more than 200 customizable templates? Whether you’re after classic elegance, modern minimalism, or flirty florals, you’re bound to spot a style that makes you smile — and matches your wedding invitations and save the dates, too.\n- __Step 3: Choose your domain name.__ Play it straight or get creative while brainstorming a web address that represents you as a couple. Just make sure it’s available before you get attached! Once you’ve locked down a domain name, you can direct guests to your website on your save the dates.\n\nNext up, personalize the site with information about your wedding. Your website is the perfect place to add all those details that won't quite fit on the official wedding invitation. Here are a few things you’ll want to include:\nThe basics. List the date, time, and place each of your wedding events will occur.\n\n- __The attire.__ State your wedding dress code (or lack thereof). Those considering heels might appreciate a heads-up if they’ll be walking on sand or uneven terrain.\n- __Your registry.__ Tell your guests whether you’re accepting gifts or charitable donations for your wedding; if you are, include a link to your gift registry. For seamless integration, [create your wedding registry with Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry).\n- __Your story.__ This is optional, but it’s also pretty fun. Create an “About Us” page that tells your love story alongside favorite photos or a timeline of your relationship.\n- __RSVP information.__ Most invitees will appreciate the option to quickly RSVP online. Digital RSVPs are eco-friendly, more affordable, and easier for you to manage. However, some older invitees may prefer RSVPing by mail. When in doubt, give your guests the online option while also including a card with the invitation.\n- __Travel information.__ Provide helpful information regarding accommodation (like whether you’ve reserved a block of hotel rooms) and transportation (like whether you’re providing shuttles from the ceremony to the reception).\n- __Little details.__ Include any important notes about your reception and ceremony — for instance, whether children are welcome.\n\nAt this point, all that’s left to do is proofread, check your links, and publish your site! You can decide whether to make your site public or keep it password-protected for guests. Just make sure your site goes live before you send your save the dates. Ready to get started? For a 10-step guide to creating the perfect website, visit our [wedding website planning guide](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-a-wedding-website).\n\n__Expert Advice:__ Check out all of our articles on [Wedding Websites](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/invites-paper/website-invites) here.\n\n## Wedding Planning Tools\n \nUnless you’re an event planner by trade, planning a wedding will likely be the most significant endeavor of your (un)professional career. You’ll need more than the standard to-do list and a few scattered notes on your phone. Luckily, organizational [wedding planning tools](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/best-wedding-planning-tools-or-zola) aren’t hard to come by. We’ve created quite a few wedding planning tools for you, all of which are guaranteed to make planning easier.\n\nWe’ve already covered our [wedding planning checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) and [wedding website builder](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) — two of the greatest wedding planning tools in existence, if we may be so dramatic — and we’re not ones to repeat ourselves. So. Moving on to the rest!\n\n__Wedding Registry Creator__\n\nOnce upon a time, building a wedding registry meant wandering through department stores with a little contraption that beeped when you aimed it at barcodes. Today, you can still totally do that, but you can also assemble an online wedding registry from the comfort of your own couch.\n\nOur [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) allows you to quickly add items from thousands of top brands or select things from other stores of your choosing. You can browse items by category or a curated collection like \"At Home Spa\" or \"Build Your Bar.\" Already have enough stuff? Shift your focus to experiences and register for zero-fee cash gifts or gift cards for Airbnb, hotels, airlines, and more. Your registry will automatically update when a gift has been purchased, so you won’t end up with two toasters (unless you want two toasters). We’re not here to judge.\n\nBonus: After your wedding, we give you a 20% discount off of anything that’s left on your registry — and that offer stands for six months! Talk about a honeymoon phase.\n\n__Guest List Tracker__\n\nCreating a wedding guest list often leads to overthinking. Our [guest list tracker](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) gives you a sense of control, even if you still can't decide whether to invite your college roommate who always wishes you a happy birthday even though you haven’t seen each other in years.\n\nAdd individual guests, couples, or families along with their addresses, contact information, and RSVP status. You can also specify how you’re related to your invitees and whether they’re definitely, maybe, or definitely maybe invited. Once you’ve added all your guests to the tracker, you can collect missing addresses, order free addressing for your save the dates and invitations, and enjoy automatic synchronization with your online RSVP list.\n\n__Seating Chart Organizer__\n\nOnce you’ve got your guest list sorted, it’s time to figure out where everyone will sit. Creating a seating chart isn’t inherently difficult, but you do have to wait until all your guests RSVP to finalize the seating arrangements. There’s not much you can do about that (aside from sending a friendly RSVP reminder via our guest list tracker), but you can remove all other stressful aspects from the equation!\n\nOur [seating chart tool](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-create-a-wedding-seating-chart) is super straightforward. Simply navigate to your wedding event on our website and click “Create Seating Chart.” From there, enter the number of tables and chairs. This is where your online list of RSVPs comes in handy — the names of all your attendees are accessible directly from the seating chart tool, so all you have to do is assign a seat to each person. You can also edit your seating chart as much as necessary.\n\n__Expert Advice__\n\nWe’ve got your back. [Expert advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice) is just another way we're proving it. Here, you’ll find in-depth articles, advice, tips and tricks, and access to Team-Z (aka your own personal wedding advisors, available via [email](https://:advisor@zola.com), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/zola/), [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@zola), and [Coffee Chats](https://www.zola.com/advisor#:~:text=Advisor%20spotlight%3A%20Hi%2C%20I%27m%20Ian%20%F0%9F%91%8B)). Browse topics like décor, honeymoon, and invites, and get the inside scoop on wedding trends from our seasoned pros.\n\nWhile we're on the subject of experts, it's time to select your wedding vendors.\n\n## Selecting Your Wedding Vendors\n \nHello, cake tastings! Vendors are the experts who bring the goods (and goodies) to your wedding. Your vendors will be an integral part of your big day, so approach the selection process with clear expectations — and an appetite, for the aforementioned cake tastings. Before you start, solemnly swear you’ll stick to your budget and make sure you’re aware of any vendor restrictions your venue might have.\n\nAnother important part of selecting wedding vendors is [developing a request for proposal](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-write-a-wedding-rfp). No, not that kind of proposal! Also known as an RFP, this is a document that includes your wedding date, budget, expectations, and other important details about what you want from a specific vendor. When the vendor receives your request, they'll send you a proposal detailing what they can (and cannot) do for your big day. And when you use Zola to inquire with vendors, we provide the questions you should ask to get the answers you need.\n\nOn average, couples hire a whopping 15 vendors for their big day. Do you need that many? Absolutely not — but you’ll probably want to consider the following:\n\n- __Catering.__ When [choosing a caterer](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering), you’ll want to consider the type of meal service that suits your wedding. Sit-down service is the formal option, whereas buffet-style cultivates a more relaxed, “serve yourself” atmosphere. \n- __Desserts.__ The [wedding cake](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts) is a classic, but there are tasty alternatives. Pies, cupcakes, cookies, pastries, doughnuts, all of the above…anything goes!\n- __Bar and beverage.__ A *full* [bar](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bar-services) is neither expected nor necessary, but your guests will appreciate an open bar if you can afford it. Provide a limited menu featuring a couple of specialty cocktails and a few classic standbys.\n- __Florists.__ [Flowers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists) and weddings go together like you and your fiancé. From bouquets and boutonnières to centerpieces and walkways, a floral flourish is always welcome!\n- __Photographer and/or videographer.__ Hire a [photographer](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers), a [videographer](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers), or both to capture the magic of your wedding day.\n- __Band or DJ.__ A live [band or a DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs) is essential for most couples — especially if a dance party is on the agenda. \n- __Beauty.__ Whether you want an intricate updo and makeup or help with styling and selecting the perfect accessories, a [beauty professional](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup) (or entire glam squad) will make sure you’re photo-ready on your big day.\n- __Officiant.__ As the person who guides you through your vows, an officiant plays a pretty important role at your wedding. Many couples enlist a family member or friend to perform this duty, while others hire a seasoned professional.\n- __Day-of coordinator.__ Don’t worry, you can still say you planned your own wedding even if you hire a [day-of coordinator](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners). All the plans are 100% yours! A day-of coordinator is merely there on the day of your wedding to ensure all your carefully laid plans are flawlessly executed. Not to mention, they’ll handle any last-minute issues that arise so you can relax, enjoy, and get hitched without a hitch.\n\nMake sure you meet potential vendors for trial runs, taste tests, and vibe checks. They should provide clear pricing, tell you exactly what’s included in their packages, and answer any questions. Traditionally, you’ll tip the drivers, valets, bartenders, cake bakers, catering staff, musicians, attendants, and delivery people on the day of your wedding. If you don’t see mention of a tip in their contract, it doesn’t hurt to ask what's expected.\n\nIf you’re searching for wedding vendors in a big city, narrowing down the options can feel a lot like resisting your favorite dessert: practically impossible. That’s why we feature favorite vendors on our [Wedding Venues and Vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) page. Shuffle through vendors in your area or take a quick quiz to find your best match. And remember: Only commit to vendors you genuinely love.\n\n## Wedding Decor & Themes\n \nYour wedding décor is what makes your venue yours. It’s what unites all the little details and transforms your wedding into a cohesive, one-of-a-kind celebration. That said, with so many options and trends, settling on one style can be tricky.\n\n__Find Your Style__\n\nNot sure where to start? Imagine your ideal venue. If you want to say your vows in a restored barn surrounded by sun-kissed meadows, a rustic theme could be your thing. See yourself dancing the night away in a swanky hotel? A formal, chic aesthetic may fit the bill. Other tried-and-true wedding décor styles are modern, vintage, whimsical, romantic, holiday/seasonal, and beachy/tropical.\n\nNote that while all weddings will have a style of décor, not all weddings will have a theme.\n\n__Lean Into a Theme__\n\nA theme can guide your décor in the same way your venue can, and many couples who have their hearts set on a theme will choose their venue to suit it, not vice versa. Movies, books, time periods, and locations are all popular sources of inspiration, and you’re bound to find something you like on our extensive list of [75 wedding themes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-themes).\n\n__Start Decorating__\nOnce you find your style or settle on a theme, you’ll find it much easier to start decorating. Every wedding is different, but décor generally includes the following:\n\n- Lighting\n- Table numbers and place cards\n- Guest book\n- Signage\n- Centerpieces\n- Florals\n- Aisle runner and markers\n- Dessert display\n- Altar arrangements\n- Menu\n- Table linens and tableware\n\nOur [wedding décor checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-decor-checklist) will ensure you don’t miss a thing!\n\n__Get Inspired__\n\nTo explore beautiful wedding dresses, unique theme ideas, classy charcuterie spreads, DIY hacks, and more, try Pinterest. It’s an endlessly scrollable source of wedding inspiration that lets you pin your favorite images and create as many aspirational mood boards as your heart desires. To really hone your vision, head to Zola's Real Weddings. (More on that later!)\n\nWhen it comes to wedding décor, we have only one rule: Your chosen wedding décor and theme should speak to you and your partner. No exceptions!\n\nFor now, onto an aspect of wedding planning that doesn’t allow for quite so much creative freedom.\n\n__Expert Advice: __See all of our [Wedding Decor & Inspiration](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/decor-inspiration) articles for the best wedding decor ideas.\n\n## Legal To-Dos\n \nThis is where making it official gets really official. Yes, it often feels like you’re planning one big party, but that doesn’t mean you can leave your t’s uncrossed (or your vendor contracts unsigned). Read on for a few legal to-dos:\n\n1. __Get a marriage license.__ Note that we said license, not certificate! You must obtain your marriage license prior to your wedding in order to receive your marriage certificate after your wedding. The process may differ depending on your location, so visit your state’s government website for specifics.\n2. __Complete vendor contracts.__ Your florist may feel like an old friend, but it’s in your best interest to get a signed [contract](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-look-for-in-a-wedding-vendor-contract) after enlisting their services. This allows you recourse in the event that *gasp* flowers are nowhere to be found on your wedding day.\n3. __Get liability insurance.__ Many wedding venues require you to sign a liability release when booking your wedding. That means that if anything goes wrong, you’re on the hook. In our world, all wedding days would be perfect days…but it’s good sense to protect yourself from unfortunate accidents with [liability insurance](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vendor-insurance-what-you-need-to-know), just in case.\n4. __Change your name…__ that is, if you’re [changing your name after marriage](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/name-change-after-marriage). And if you are, we’ve got one made-up word for you: HitchSwitch. This service lets you skip the lines and change your name online in three simple steps. Queue-free is the way to be! \n5. __Discuss a prenup.__ Prenups aren’t for everyone, but they aren’t just for celebrities either. A prenup can protect both you and your soon-to-be spouse in the event of a divorce, and it's prudent if either of you has significant assets.\n\nYou should consider doing all of the above tasks, but definitely don’t skip the first three! What’s a bit of paperwork when it’s getting you one step closer to the best day of your life?\n\n## Wedding Planning Questions\n \nThroughout the process of planning your wedding, you’re bound to have many, many questions. We’ve organized a few pertinent ones for you to ask your venue, your vendors, and yourself.\n\n__Ask Your Venue__\n\n- What are the event space options?\n- How much is your deposit and rental rate?\n- How many hours will I have the space?\n- What services are included in my booking?\n- Can I bring in my own vendors?\n- What’s your parking situation?\n- When can I book?\n- What happens if I have to cancel?\n\n__Ask Your Vendors__\n\n- Can I see samples of your previous work?\n- Based on my budget, what services would you suggest for me?\n- How many weddings have you done?\n- What’s your cancellation policy?\n- Is a tip included in your contract?\n\n__Ask Yourself__\n\n- Am I clearly communicating with my partner throughout this process?\n- Am I staying true to my wedding vision when possible and compromising when necessary?\n- Am I making the most of all my resources?\n- Am I making time to connect with my partner and not talk about wedding planning?\n\nLucky for you, you're planning a wedding in the age of the internet. If you have a wedding planning question, it’s likely already been asked and answered on a wedding forum. Wedding-specific discussion threads and blogs can be a great resource for wedding planning because you can learn from the struggles and successes of other couples. You can also join our [Zola Community](https://www.facebook.com/groups/zolacommunity/) on Facebook, where newlyweds often share detailed recaps of their big days and the lessons they learned while planning their own weddings.\n\nAnd it goes without saying, but you can always ask us anything! Team-Z lives to answer your wedding questions. Email us at advisor@zola.com with what’s on your mind or visit the [Advisor page](https://www.zola.com/advisor) for more details!\n\n## Real Weddings\n \n[Real Weddings](https://www.zola.com/faq/360004190072-what-is-zola-s-real-weddings-) is the destination for engaged couples planning a wedding and searching for vendors. We created this platform so you can get inspired by the real weddings of couples like you!\n\nYou’ll find professional wedding photos, decked-out venues, magical fairyland dance floors, on-trend wedding cakes…we could go on and on, and you will too. Of course, that’s not to say there are no organizational features — you know us better than that by now. Our gallery can be searched by keyword and filtered by season, style, venue type, location, and color.\n\nThe best part? All the stunning images you see on Real Weddings feature real vendors. As in, best-in-class vendors that you can hire for your own wedding, tagged for your convenience. Simply glance to the right of your favorite photos and click on a vendor to view their Zola profile, complete with:\n\n- Verified reviews from Zola users\n- Rates\n- A gallery of their work\n- Biography\n- Location\n- Summary of services\n- Contact and social media information\n\nYou can either reach out right away or save them to your favorites list for later.\n\nFun fact: We’re always accepting new submissions from wedding photographers. If you ask yours to send us photos from your wedding, your special day can earn a place in the Real Weddings gallery.\n\n__Summary__\n\nWedding planning is only as complicated as you make it.\n\nYour wedding can be big or small, simple or extravagant. What's important is that you stick to your budget, mind those checklists, and cultivate a wedding day atmosphere that makes you happy.\n\nAfter all, once the planning is complete and you're walking down that beautifully decorated aisle as your loved ones cheer, all that really matters is the person you’re walking toward.\n\nWe may be biased, but Zola is an invaluable one-stop shop for all your wedding planning needs. Once you pop the question or say yes, hop onto our website and [create a free account](https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/wedding-planning).\n\nFrom there, you’ll have access to all the tools, checklists, expert advice, and other wedding planning necessities we just explored. The best part? We’ll even help you figure out what to do with all those [wedding leftovers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-leftovers) and send thank-you notes to your guests and gift-givers. Planning your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and we're here for you every step of the way!\n\n__FAQs__\n\n__Where do I start with the wedding planning process?__\n\nStart with the wedding planning basics: your budget, checklist, vision, and \nvenue. \n\n__What wedding planning tools should I use?__\n\nZola! Yes, that’s us. Here’s everything you’ll need: wedding planning [checklist](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist), budget tracker, [registry creator](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry), wedding website creator, venue and vendor marketplace, invitation shop, [guest list tracker](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests), [seating chart organizer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-create-a-wedding-seating-chart), and [expert advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice).\n\n__What are all the steps in the wedding planning journey?__\n\nThe main steps of wedding planning include budgeting, creating a guest list and seating chart, sending invitations, creating a registry, finding a venue and vendors, making a wedding website, getting your marriage license, and putting together a timeline and checklists to keep track of everything. Check out our [15-step wedding planning guide](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) for more!\n\n__How can I simplify wedding planning?__\nA simple wedding isn’t as elusive as it seems, and organization is key to streamlining your wedding planning process. If things start feeling too complicated, regroup and scale back. Ultimately, your wedding day is about marrying the one you love. What's simpler than that?","tag":"How To","updatedAt":"2024-02-07T18:02:05.075Z"}]}},"userAgent":"Mozilla/5.0 AppleWebKit/537.36 (KHTML, like Gecko; compatible; ClaudeBot/1.0; +claudebot@anthropic.com)","userCtx":{"object_id":"684f1378f0952b90ec925aec","is_spoof":false,"has_registry":false,"has_wedding_account":false,"has_website":false,"has_guest_list":false,"has_inspiration_account":false,"has_invitation_account":false,"has_marketplace_account":false,"has_completed_onboarding":false,"has_store_account":false,"has_baby_registry":false,"is_inspiration_vendor":false,"is_inspiration_admin":false,"has_board_items":false,"is_guest":true,"user_experiments":{"marketplace-post-inquiry-instant-registry-cross-conversion":{"key":"marketplace-post-inquiry-instant-registry-cross-conversion","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"wedding-website-navigation-redesign":{"key":"wedding-website-navigation-redesign","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"hdyhau-subway":{"key":"hdyhau-subway","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"unbounce-std-onboard-landing":{"key":"unbounce-std-onboard-landing","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"unbounce-design-website-mobile":{"key":"unbounce-design-website-mobile","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"marketplace_featured_vendors_holdout":{"key":"marketplace_featured_vendors_holdout","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos-mweb":{"key":"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos-mweb","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"paper-ulp-optimization-exp-2":{"key":"paper-ulp-optimization-exp-2","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"website-customization-mweb":{"key":"website-customization-mweb","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"improve-mweb-postauth-nav-products-2":{"key":"improve-mweb-postauth-nav-products-2","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"marketplace-hide-boost-listing-link":{"key":"marketplace-hide-boost-listing-link","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"unbounce-design-homepage-mobile":{"key":"unbounce-design-homepage-mobile","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos":{"key":"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"wedding-website-navigation-redesign-3":{"key":"wedding-website-navigation-redesign-3","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"payment-intent-vendor-upgrade-ramp":{"key":"payment-intent-vendor-upgrade-ramp","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"paper-samples-favorites-remove-customization":{"key":"paper-samples-favorites-remove-customization","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"session-replay-sample-rate":{"key":"session-replay-sample-rate","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"unbounce-design-homepage-desktop":{"key":"unbounce-design-homepage-desktop","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-2"},"marketplace-listing-page-gallery-optimizations":{"key":"marketplace-listing-page-gallery-optimizations","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-2"},"marketplace-zendesk-chat":{"key":"marketplace-zendesk-chat","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"marketplace-onboarding-reordering":{"key":"marketplace-onboarding-reordering","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"recaptcha-refactor":{"key":"recaptcha-refactor","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"marketplace-preauth-srp-pros-and-cons-release-ramp":{"key":"marketplace-preauth-srp-pros-and-cons-release-ramp","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"}}}},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/expert-advice/topic/[slug]/[subtopicSlug]","query":{"page":"8","slug":"wedding-planning-101","subtopicSlug":"wedding-day"},"buildId":"web-preauth-348ae07a9fd4633bc09bc95f0b3d4bbd8c87c8d1","assetPrefix":"https://d1tntvpcrzvon2.cloudfront.net/vpassets","runtimeConfig":{"APP_VERSION":"1.3.83","MIXPANEL_PROJECT_TOKEN":"7a536271a9739a74faec2d35adf1748f","SEGMENT_ID":"5uA1DSKtOVYOwQFc8VmVrXWt5PioMQla","UPLOADCARE_PKEY":"bed481ea2bef6baf44de","ZOLA_ENV":"production","FLAGS":{"PAPER_LP_SAMPLE_PACK_SECTION":false,"enableDatadog":true},"BABY_HOST":"https://baby.zola.com"},"isFallback":false,"gssp":true,"customServer":true,"scriptLoader":[]}