If you are dreaming of a perfect wedding day, there must be a certain level of care in the planning of the ceremony. This includes not only the usual items like the cake, the location, and the photography, but also the proper wedding etiquette for the bride, groom, the bridesmaids, the groomsmen, and the guests. Although not following proper wedding etiquette will not necessarily ruin a wedding, it can cause feelings to be hurt and may even ruin the bride’s big day.

One key thing to keep in mind, if you are a part of the wedding party, ie. a bridesmaid or groomsman, that the day isn’t about you. It’s about the bride and groom. Essentially, you are there to support the bride and groom and do what you can to make things easier on them. That is why there are bridesmaid gifts. Causing a scene, upstaging the couple or stealing their thunder is completely unacceptable and any such behavior should be avoided at all costs.

During the ceremony, the guests must be aware of their actions and behavior. Certain things like getting up to use the restroom, whispering, or falling asleep can be a distraction for everyone around you. There is nothing worse than being distracted by a guest insisting on making everyone in their row move so they can get up and use the restroom. Cell phones should be turned off as well, to prevent any unexpected interruptions. This is all a matter of common courtesy.

It is quite important for the bride and groom’s parents to follow a few simple rules because they are more likely to have attention focused on them as well. If a parent is weeping hysterically during the wedding, this will most certainly cause a distraction that can interrupt the vows and ultimately create a terrible spectacle.

For the bride and groom, there are also points of etiquette that should be heeded on the day of marriage. For one, incorporating religious or ethic customs should be attempted for the sake of keeping things organized as well as keeping tradition. Additionally, the bride and groom should take care to ensure that the guests feel welcome and comfortable at the reception and the ceremony. Think of the reception as one magnificent a dinner party with a large number of guests. Greeting them with enthusiasm in the reception line is just one way to show your appreciation that they have come to celebrate with you.

Which brings me to the gift giving. Generally, the bride and groom have registered at a store for personalized gifts that they feel would be beneficial to their new life and new home together. When shopping for gifts, guests should do their best to stick to the registry as best they can. Most couples understand that not everything they want will be in everyone’s price range, and so will put a few smaller items on the list. If you are unable to find something on the gift registry, then a gift of cash is always acceptable. Just use some your common sense.