Bridezilla Begone! Wedding Etiquette for the Happy Couple-to-Be

Plan thoughtfully—and stay calm—leading up to your special day. Wedding and lifestyle/Shutterstock

Wedding planning is extremely stressful. Don’t let the near-constant choices, budget constraints, and resulting passionate emotions lead you into making any of these common faux pas.

Invitation Protocol

Nothing shouts “Tacky!” faster than putting your registry information on the invitation. It looks like you’re only inviting them for the gift. Your guests will ask where you’re registered; if you’re really concerned, however, spread the registry info via word of mouth.

Likewise, don’t ask in the fancy invitation script for “cash, not gifts.” If you’re trying to save for a first home or something similarly significant, the polite way to go about it is to register at a cash registry. Let guests know that they are contributing to something meaningful to you and your spouse-to-be. Never make cash the only option, as some traditionalists prefer to give a tangible gift; respect that.

Generous Libations

Weddings are expensive, and the bar bill is a significant part of the reception budget. Don’t give in to the temptation of a cash bar. Guests have already spent money to attend your wedding (especially if it’s a destination wedding) and have probably purchased a very nice gift. Also, it disrupts the elegance of your event for the guests to pull cash or credit cards out throughout the reception.