Planning a wedding can be a whirlwind, and it’s no secret that the lingo can be a little confusing. Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a groom, or a member of the wedding party, this guide will help you navigate the wonderful world of weddings with ease. From wedding party members to ceremony and reception terms, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into this love-ly language!
I. Wedding Party Members
Bride: The bride is the woman getting married and typically takes on the lead role in planning the wedding. You probably already knew that though.
Groom: He’s the guy who’s found his perfect match! The groom is the man getting married and often plays an active role in wedding planning alongside the bride.
Maid of Honor: The bride’s right-hand woman! The maid of honor is a close friend or family member of the bride who offers support, helps with planning, and leads the bridesmaids.
Best Man: He’s got the groom’s back! The best man is a close friend or family member of the groom who supports him, organizes the bachelor party, and stands by his side on the big day.
Bridesmaids: These lovely ladies are the bride’s support squad! They help with wedding planning, celebrate at pre-wedding events, and stand by the bride on her big day.
Groomsmen: These dapper dudes are the groom’s posse! They assist the groom, attend pre-wedding events, and provide support throughout the wedding process.
Flower Girl: This little cutie steals the show! The flower girl is a young girl who walks down the aisle before the bride, scattering petals along the way.
Ring Bearer: This tiny trooper has a big responsibility! The ring bearer is usually a young boy who carries the wedding rings down the aisle.
II. Wedding Ceremony Terms
Processional: Here comes the bridal party! The processional is the formal entrance of the wedding party and family members down the aisle at the beginning of the ceremony.
Recessional: They’re hitched! The recessional is the formal exit of the newlyweds and wedding party at the end of the ceremony.
Altar: Where the magic happens! The altar is the designated area, often decorated, where the couple exchanges vows during the ceremony.
Aisle: The path to forever! The aisle is the walkway where the bridal party and the bride make their grand entrance during the ceremony.
Unity Ceremony: Two become one! The unity ceremony is a symbolic act performed by the couple during the wedding ceremony, such as lighting a unity candle or mixing sand, to represent their union.
Wedding Vows: Promises from the heart! Wedding vows are the words spoken by the couple during the ceremony, expressing their love and commitment to each other.
III. Wedding Reception Terms
Cocktail Hour: Sip and mingle! The cocktail hour is a pre-reception gathering where guests enjoy drinks and appetizers while the newlyweds and wedding party take photos.
Grand Entrance: Make way for the newlyweds! The grand entrance is when the couple and wedding party make a grand and often lively entrance into the reception.
First Dance: Twirl into marital bliss! The first dance is a special moment during the reception where the newlyweds share a dance as a married couple.
Father-Daughter Dance: A dance to cherish! The father-daughter dance is a heartwarming moment during the reception where the bride and her father share a special dance.
Mother-Son Dance: A sweet and memorable moment! The mother-son dance is an emotional part of the reception where the groom and his mother share a special dance.
Cake Cutting: Slice into happiness! The cake cutting is a fun and often playful moment during the reception where the newlyweds cut the wedding cake and feed each other a bite.
Bouquet Toss: Catch the luck! The bouquet toss is a traditional and exciting part of the reception where the bride tosses her bouquet to the single ladies in attendance.
Garter Toss: Who’s next? The garter toss is a playful and entertaining event during the reception where the groom removes the bride’s garter and tosses it to the single men.
Last Dance: The final twirl! The last dance is the concluding moment of the reception, where the couple shares one more dance before making their grand exit.
IV. Attire Terms
Tuxedo: Dressed to the nines! A tuxedo is a formal men’s suit typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, and other male wedding party members.
Suit: Looking sharp! A suit is a less formal option for men’s wedding attire, often chosen for a more relaxed or casual wedding.
Wedding Gown: The dress of her dreams! The wedding gown is the bride’s chosen attire for the big day, often reflecting her personal style and the wedding’s theme.
Bridesmaid Dress: Stylish sidekicks! Bridesmaid dresses are the chosen attire for the bridesmaids, often coordinating with the wedding’s color scheme and style.
Flower Girl Dress: Adorable and charming! The flower girl dress is the chosen attire for the flower girl, often resembling a miniature version of the bride’s gown or incorporating the wedding’s colors.
Ring Bearer Outfit: Dapper and delightful! The ring bearer outfit is the chosen attire for the ring bearer, often a miniature suit or tuxedo that coordinates with the groom’s attire.
V. Miscellaneous Terms
Save the Date: Mark your calendars! A save the date is a pre-invitation notice sent to guests, informing them of the wedding date and location.
Wedding Invitation: You’re invited! The wedding invitation is the formal announcement of the wedding details, including date, time, location, and RSVP information.
RSVP: Kindly respond! RSVP is an acronym for “répondez s’il vous plaît,” a French phrase that means “please respond.” Guests are asked to confirm their attendance by a specified date.
Wedding Planner: The wedding whisperer! A wedding planner is a professional who assists with the planning and coordination of a wedding, helping the couple bring their vision to life.
Wedding Coordinator: The day-of hero! A wedding coordinator is a professional who handles the logistics and details on the wedding day, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Wedding Favors: A token of gratitude! Wedding favors are small gifts given to guests by the couple as a thank you for attending their celebration.
Wedding Website: Your digital guide! A wedding website is an online platform that provides guests with important information about the wedding, including dates, locations, registries, and more.
Now you’re well-versed in the language of love and weddings! Keep this glossary handy as you plan your special day, and remember to enjoy the journey as you create memories that will last a lifetime.