February 7, 2025
Welcome to the Magical World of Weddings!
If you’re newly engaged, a Big Congratulations is in order! As you dive head-first into your wedding planning, you might find yourself lost in a sea of unfamiliar terms and phrases. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Understanding wedding terminology will not only make the planning process smoother, but also help you communicate more confidently with suppliers and professionals.
From the various types of weddings to specific terms for your ceremony and reception, here’s your Go-To Guide for decoding nowadays wedding jargon!... but remember, you decide in the end What You Want, and How You Want Your Wedding Day to be Shaped.
TYPES OF WEDDINGS
Elopement/Destination Wedding: If you're thinking about tying the knot in a far-flung, scenic spot with just a few close witnesses, that's an elopement. A destination wedding, on the other hand, can be a full-on wedding event in a beautiful location, with your family and friends traveling to celebrate with you. Both offer unique and intimate experiences away from home.
Traditional Weddings: A classic celebration is often steeped in cultural or religious customs. These weddings typically feature formal elements like a religious ceremony, a white gown, a large bridal party, and a grand reception afterward. It can very much look the quintessential "movie wedding" setup.
Weekend/Two-Day Wedding: Why celebrate for just one day when you can make it a whole weekend affair ? - This type of wedding often includes multiple events—like a welcome dinner, rehearsal, your main wedding event, and a farewell brunch—allowing you and your guests to stretch the celebration out and enjoy more time together.
Intimate Wedding: Smaller guest lists with close friends and family make these weddings cosy, heartfelt, and very personal. It’s all about creating a meaningful experience rather than hosting a large crowd.
Themed Wedding: If you’re a couple with a love for a certain aesthetic or era, a themed wedding lets you incorporate it into every detail, from decor to attire. Whether it's vintage, bohemian, or fairytale-inspired, this is where your creativity can shine.
Bespoke Wedding: A fully customised, personalised wedding that reflects your unique love story. Every detail, from invitations to the ceremony structure, is tailored specifically to you and your partner.
WEDDING DAY TERMINOLOGY
Master of Ceremonies (MC or your Toast-Master): This person is the voice behind your reception. They keep things moving smoothly, making announcements and coordinating speeches, cake cutting, and other key moments throughout the day. Some also call them the Toast Master.
Wedding Breakfast: Despite the name, this is not a morning meal. It’s the first meal you and your guests enjoy together after the ceremony, usually served in the afternoon or evening as part of your wedding reception.
First Look: A growing trend where the couple sees each other privately before the ceremony. This intimate moment is a perfect opportunity for some emotional and candid photos without the pressure of a crowd.
Cocktail Hour: The relaxed time between the ceremony and reception when guests enjoy drinks and canapés while the wedding party takes photos. Many couples now include personalised cocktails that reflect their personalities! - which can be a super-fun addition.
Corkage Fee: If you’re bringing in your own alcohol to the venue, the venue may charge you a corkage fee, which covers the cost of serving and handling the bottles. Add this to your 101 list of questions.
Receiving Line: A traditional way for the couple and immediate family to greet and thank each guest personally after the ceremony. This ensures everyone gets a few moments with the newlyweds. This is a really lovely tradition, which I feel all guests really treasure.
PEOPLE AND ROLES
Boutonniere: A small floral arrangement worn on the lapel of the groom, groomsmen, and other male members of the wedding party or close family. It’s a simple but really lovely and elegant touch that ties in with the wedding party’s look and decor styling.
Usher: A member of your wedding party, typically a male friend or relative, who helps guests find their seats at the ceremony. They may also assist with other duties throughout the day to keep things running smoothly. This is a wonderful 'task' to give a family member or friend, that is keen to 'help' on your day.
Officiant/Celebrant/Registrar: The person responsible for conducting your wedding ceremony. A religious officiant might lead a traditional ceremony, a celebrant will customise a more personal, non-religious service, and a registrar legally marries you in a civil ceremony.
Civil Ceremony: A non-religious legal ceremony conducted by a registrar or government official. These are often shorter and more straightforward, but you can personalise them with your own vows and readings.
TABLE SETTING TERMS
Sweetheart Table: A special table at the reception reserved just for the newlyweds, giving them a little private time amidst the festivities while still being part of the action.
Charger Plate: A decorative plate used as a base setting for formal dining. It’s placed underneath the dinner plate for a touch of elegance, but isn’t used for serving food.
Wedding Favours: Small gifts given to guests as a token of appreciation for attending your wedding. These can be personalised keepsakes or delicious treats to enjoy at the event or take home.
Ready to Plan Your Wedding ?
Now that you’ve got the wedding terminology down, you’re well on your way to becoming a Planning Pro! If you ever feel like you need some help or guidance, I’m here to chat and support you through the entire process.
Feel free to reach out through the link below or call or email me—I’d love to help make your wedding day everything you’ve dreamed of and more!
Inge x
Wedding Planner
@ Somerset & Dorset Weddings
@ Destination Weddings
I AM A HOPELESS ROMANTIC
I travel where Your Love Story Begins
Click to Browse my Wedding Planning Services
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