Etiquette and Stationery for other Wedding Parties

Part of the excitement of preparing for a wedding are the events leading up to the big day! Many couples have engagement parties, wedding showers, and rehearsal dinners which are all great occasions for them to spend time with their families and friends. Each event has its own set of invitations etiquette and can differ depending on the style of the wedding.

What is the Etiquette Surrounding Engagement Parties?

The first engagement party is traditionally thrown by the bride's family followed by engagement parties thrown by the groom's family or friends. Engagement parties are commonly a cocktail event or casual in nature giving the happy couple a chance to mix and mingle with family and friends.

The engagement announcement or invitation should reflect the type of party that will be held, but shouldn't upstage the wedding invitation. The guests invited to an engagement party should also be on the guest list for the wedding unless there are special circumstances (ex: there will be no formal wedding ceremony and reception).

What is the Etiquette Surrounding Bridal Showers?

Traditionally, the maid-of-honor and/or the bridesmaids throw the bridal shower. Friends, family, or co-workers may also throw a shower for the bride. Keep in mind, that people who are invited to a shower should also be invited to the wedding. Exceptions can be made if the bride is having a small wedding.

Are Rehearsal Dinner Invitations Required?

Proper etiquette does not require formal rehearsal dinner invitations. However it is a good idea to take the time to drop them in the mail. With the hustle and bustle of wedding events, they are sure a helpful and tangible reminder of the time and location for the evening. Keep in mind the bride and groom have plenty on their minds and will be the first ones the family and wedding party turn to for questions.

Customarily the groom's parents host the rehearsal dinner and they often involve the bride and groom in planning the event. Selecting rehearsal dinner invitations, location and event details can be a fun way for the bride and future parents-in-law to get better acquainted.