Getting engaged and planning a wedding brings with it an attack of etiquette questions. Steer through the confusion with some wedding etiquette guide.

Bridal Shower Etiquette

Let your sister or a bridesmaid host your bridal shower. It is appropriate if you give her a list of female friends. Don’t invite everyone you know just because you want to receive more gifts.

Wedding Announcement

Announce your upcoming wedding in the local newspaper and supply a casual photo of the two of you. Keep the announcement of your engagement short.

Wedding Invitation Etiquette

Send wedding invitations at least 3 weeks before the ceremony date. With today’s desktop publishing software, you can make your own or have them professionally printed. Include the place, time, date and a small romantic verse with your invitation.

Guests Invitation Etiquette

Invite all wedding attendees to the reception. While some brides and grooms feel it is too expensive to host a full reception for all attendees, it is rude to pick and choose who may attend the reception. Serve less expensive dishes instead of cutting down the guest list.

If you are thinking about the option of an Adults Only wedding reception, indicate that the reception is to be adults only by having the words “Adults Only Reception” or “Adult Reception” printed along with the reception location and time on the invitation.

Wedding Budget Etiquette

Share wedding expenses. Traditionally, the bride’s parents are responsible for fronting the bill for the wedding reception; these days, the bride’s parents, groom’s parents, and the couple themselves all contribute to the wedding pool. That said, it helps to come to the budgeting table prepped with the traditional list of which side pays for what.

Reception Etiquette

Everyone should feel comfortable at the reception. Use place cards at the tables so people will be with others that they are compatible with. Have a seating chart where they enter so that they don’t have to search for their table.

Asking for Monetary Gifts

Avoid drawing attention to the cash with a “money tree,” or other cash-displaying gimmick, so guests bringing tangible gifts don’t feel awkward. Simply display all cards and gifts together for the bride to open and acknowledge.

Thank You Notes

Bestow a small present upon all attendants to show your appreciation for their participation in your special day. In addition, the thank you note for the bridal shower gift should be sent shortly after the shower and the thank you note for the wedding should be mailed out shortly after the wedding ceremony.

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