When it comes to the world of weddings, the terminology can often be a mystery. Familiarizing yourself with the jargon can empower you as you embark on the planning journey. Here’s a breakdown of the key terms you need to know!
Key Wedding Terms:
- Bridal Party: The group of people chosen by the bride and groom to participate in the wedding ceremony, often including bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honor, and best man.
- Save the Date: A pre-invitation sent to guests to inform them of the wedding date and request that they mark their calendars.
- RSVP: An abbreviation of the French phrase “répondez s’il vous plaît,” meaning “please respond.” Guests are expected to reply to the invitation to confirm their attendance.
- Wedding Registry: A list of desired gifts that the couple has selected for guests to choose from and purchase for the wedding.
- Cocktail Hour: A period of time after the ceremony when guests enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres before the reception begins.
- Bridal Suite: A room or suite where the bride can relax, get ready, and spend time before the ceremony.
The Basics
Engagement Photos — Capturing the love and excitement of the engaged couple, a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera.
Fiancé / Fiancée — The official terms for the partners who are engaged to be married.
Wedding Hashtag — A unique hashtag created for the wedding to be shared on social media by guests.
Wedding Registry — A list of desired gifts from which guests can choose when selecting a present.
Wedding Website — An online platform where couples can share important wedding details with their guests.
Planning and Logistics
Visuals and Style
Mood Board — A visual collage of ideas and inspiration for the overall aesthetic of the wedding.
Palette — The selected range of colors that will be used throughout the wedding decor and design.
Organization and Management
Run Sheet (or Runsheet) — A detailed document outlining the timeline and sequence of events for the wedding day.
Shot List — A list of specific photos that the couple wants their photographer to capture during the wedding.
Full Planning / Partial Planning — Different levels of wedding planning services offered by professionals.
Wedding Coordinator — An individual who acts as a liaison between the couple and various wedding vendors.
Rain Plan — A backup strategy in case of inclement weather affecting the wedding day.
Vendor Meal — Meals provided to vendors working at the wedding to keep them fueled and energized.
Types of Weddings
Destination Wedding — A wedding that takes place in a location away from the couple’s hometown.
Elopement — A small and intimate wedding ceremony typically involving only the couple.
Intimate Wedding — A wedding with a small guest list, focusing on close friends and family.
Micro Wedding — An ultra-small wedding with fewer than 50 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere.
Dress Code and Attire
Black Tie — A formal dress code typically reserved for elegant and upscale events.
Black Tie Optional — A slightly less formal dress code that still encourages formal attire.
Tuxedo / Waistcoat / Cumberbund — Different elements of formal attire for men.
Cufflinks — Decorative fasteners for shirt cuffs, adding a touch of sophistication.
Appliqué — Intricate embellishments on wedding dresses for added detail and beauty.
Grosgrain Ribbon — Textured ribbon often used for accessories and decor in weddings.
Wedding Veil — A traditional headpiece worn by brides in various styles and lengths.
Silhouette — The overall shape and cut of different styles of wedding dresses.
Godets — Panels of fabric used in dress designs to create a decorative flare.
Goodbye Celebration — The couple’s official departure from the reception, accompanied by guests’ well-wishes and cheers.
Wedding Terminology
Key terms in wedding planning to remember, along with helpful advice for further exploration:
- Ask for Clarification — Feel free to ask questions to vendors for better understanding. Don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any aspect of the wedding planning process to ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Conduct Research — Utilize online resources such as wedding websites, forums, and blogs, as well as seek advice from wedding professionals to stay well-informed. Researching trends and ideas can help you make informed decisions for your special day.
- Avoid Misunderstandings — Clearly define contract terms with vendors to prevent any confusion. Make sure both parties are on the same page regarding services, prices, and expectations to avoid any misunderstandings or disagreements later on.
Let’s Get Started
Now that you have a grasp of wedding jargon, it’s time to kick off the planning process!
If you’re in need of local wedding professionals, whether it’s photographers or coordinators, we’re here to help streamline the search for you.