Q:        Is it appropriate to register before our engagement party?
A:        It is completely acceptable to register as soon as you get engaged.  Your register should act as a guide for guests and should assist them in purchasing items you and your fiancé are fond of.  Guests are not required to purchase from your register but it simply gives them helpful hints and options.  Just remember, although it is traditional, it is not mandatory for guests to purchase an engagement gift. 

Q:        We are having a destination wedding.  How far in advance should we mail our wedding invitations?
A:        It is proper etiquette to mail wedding invitations six to eight weeks in advance.  When planning a destination wedding it is helpful for guests to receive a save the date four to six months in advance.  It is best to include all pertinent information including location, airports, lodging, and activities available in the area on your save the date. 

Q:        How do I pick wedding theme?
A:        Start thinking about what you and your bride or groom-to be enjoy, colors, motifs or monograms.  When picking a theme you want something that reflects who you are as a couple.  If you got engaged on the coast in Cape Cod, why not think about a clambake in Nantucket? Or if you love vacationing overseas, whisk your guest away with a Moroccan theme including belly dancers, elephants, and other spicy accoutrements! Once you choose your theme, be sure to stay focused and carry it out throughout your entire weekend on cocktail napkins, favors and floral arrangements. 

Q:        My wedding is a casual beach wedding.  Should we plan on having a casual rehearsal dinner to match our theme, or can we make it a more formal event?
A:        It is all about you!  If you wish to have one night where your guests are primped in coat and tie and on their best behavior, print the place cards and make it a formal occasion.  Otherwise, stick to your theme and make it a beach bash.  Light up those tiki torches and roast a pig on a spit!

Q:        I am having a difficult time finding ceremony music that really reflects who I am.  Is it necessary that we play traditional, formal music for the processional?
A:        Absolutely not!  Your ceremony music should reflect your personality.  Any of your favorite songs can be translated into an instrumental tune, surrounding you with your favorite music as you walk down the aisle.  Whether it be Bach or The Beatles, there is something to suit every mood!

Q:        Is it necessary to provide a printed menu at the reception if we are offering a buffet-style dinner for our guests?
A:        Menu cards are merely a detailed description of the dinner being offered.  Most often, menus are placed at each place setting for a seated dinner.  Even for a station-style dinner, it is often helpful to provide your guests with a menu describing their options available at the buffet.  An easy alternative would be to mark each buffet selection with a sign detailing sauces or ingredients to which one might be allergic.

Q:        When do I start using my new monogram?
A:        Keep in mind, you will not officially have that new last name until after the official, “I do”.  Do not jinks yourself by sending out thank you notes on your new monogrammed stationary or wedding announcements announcing your new name until your are legally bound.  Save your new monogram for after the wedding, you will have plenty of time to put it to good use!

Q:        What do I need to include in my guest bags/baskets for out of town guests?
A:        Going back to your wedding theme, think about what would be helpful for your guests as they enjoy your wedding weekend.  If you are having a destination wedding in Palm Beach, be considerate and include sunscreen.  Some standard items would be bottled water, pre-packaged snacks such as cashews or chocolate chip cookies, and an itinerary mapping out the details and events planned for your joyous occasion.  Don’t forget about the bag or basket you arrange all of your goodies in!  Make sure this represents your theme…

Q:        Is it necessary to provide my guests with a wedding favor?
A:        Although it is not required, it is a wonderful gesture to thank your guests for attending your special day.  Whether you choose to provide them with custom printed M&M’s in a monogrammed pouch or make a donation to your favorite charity on their behalf, your guests will appreciate any gesture, large or small. 

Q:        Do I need to stick to the conventional something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue?

A:        Be creative.  If your family has a vintage piece of jewelry that your sister wore in her wedding, stick to tradition.  There are so many new, fun ways to incorporate an old custom: How about adding your monogram in blue on the inside of your dress? Or, instead of purchasing a new veil, visit a vintage store and see if you can find a veil to match your exquisite dress.  Of course, there is always the blue-bottomed Christian Louboutin!