Planning a wedding involves a whirlwind of emotions, logistics and traditions. To ensure a stress-free wedding experience for everyone, there is a certain degree of WEDiquette that needs to be considered. 
As wedding officiants, we’ve had the honour of being part of countless celebrations and witnessing firsthand the beauty and, at times, the challenges that come with it. An efficient officiant will help set the tone by offering a calming presence and a level of expertise that can manage any unforeseen issues. But remember, your officiant is not your planner. Here are a few do’s and don’ts of good WEDiquette to consider before, during and after your wedding ceremony.
Before The Ceremony
Avoid Wedding Party Woes: The wedding party’s priority is to keep the couple calm, especially if any wedding day jitters start to surface. How can they help you have a stress-free wedding? They should be punctual, respectful of your wishes, and help the day run smoothly. The Best Man should be on his best behaviour. The Maid of Honour should turn any potential OMGs into LOLs. The groomsmen should be well-groomed, and the bridesmaids should ensure the bride’s made to feel her very best.
Timing is Everything: Keep your wedding party informed about timelines and expectations. Ensure that everyone knows their specific role and responsibilities, a chat or dedicated meeting can help everyone stay on the same page. Schedule rehearsals and fittings in advance to accommodate schedules. Avoid last-minute changes by finalizing details well in advance of your wedding day.
During The Ceremony
Disconnect to Connect: Many couples prefer an “unplugged” ceremony and want guests to connect with them without the distraction of phones. Your wedding party, too, should be engaged during the ceremony by being fully present and honouring this moment. Remember, this is your day, and you deserve the spotlight.
Don’t Miss the Magic: Your wedding is about celebrating love. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, so make sure you are fully present in the sharing of your love story. The officiant is there to guide the ceremony. Trust their expertise and follow their cues to ensure your ceremony flows smoothly. Things may not go perfectly, and that’s okay. Lead by example by practicing patience, maintaining a positive attitude and reminding your wedding party and families to do the same. If everyone does that, you’ll have a stress-free wedding.
After The Ceremony
Retreat, Reflect, Rejoice: It’s crucial for newlyweds to carve out a moment of privacy immediately after the ceremony. Stealing away for a brief interlude alone in a serene space offers you both a chance to reconnect, share your thoughts, express your feelings and savour the joy of becoming partners for life. It may also be a moment to thank your officiant and spend some quality time with your wedding party prior to joining your guests for the festivities.
Mind your Ps and Qs and Say Your Thank Yous: Make the time to thank everyone who has played a part in making your special day memorable. Acknowledge your parents, wedding party, guests and vendors for their support and presence. Be gracious with your officiant and invite them to stay for the cocktail reception. Little gestures like handwritten notes, a mention in your speech, or a tag on a social media post go a long way.
With the assistance of a skilled and supportive officiant, navigating the intricacies of wedding ceremony etiquette can become a collaborative effort that will allow everyone to focus on what truly matters – celebrating love.
Revs. Jason and Michael
The Marry Men Wedding Officiants themarrymen.ca @themarrymen
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