Etiquette For Wedding Attendants: Do They Get Separate Invites?

When it comes to wedding invites, there are a lot of things to consider. From the dress code to the return address, there are many factors that go into creating the perfect wedding invitation. One question that often comes up is whether wedding attendants should get separate invites.

The short answer is yes, wedding attendants should get their own invites. This is because it is important to make sure that everyone who is a part of the wedding, from the ushers to the program attendant, feels included and valued. By sending them their own invitation, you are showing them that they are an important part of your big day.

Not only that, but it is also proper wedding invitation etiquette to send separate invitations to adult children, even if they live in the family home. This way, everyone feels special and knows that their presence at your wedding is appreciated.

Ushers and their invites

Ushers are an important part of the wedding ceremony, and it is customary to include them in the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. They play a crucial role in guiding guests to their seats and ensuring the smooth flow of the event. While their duties may seem straightforward, it is essential to have them present at the rehearsal to familiarise themselves with the venue and their responsibilities.

When it comes to invitations, ushers should be formally invited to the wedding, and their names should be included on the same invite as their significant others. This is especially important if they are part of the wedding party. However, if the usher is unmarried or in a casual relationship, it is acceptable to extend a solo invite.

In the case where the usher has a partner, it is proper etiquette to send separate invitations to each individual unless they reside together. This ensures that each person feels valued and included in the celebration.

To maintain consistency and avoid confusion, it is advisable to follow the same invitation protocol for all ushers and their partners. This attention to detail will contribute to a well-organised wedding and ensure that everyone involved feels appreciated for their contribution to your special day.

Including ushers in the rehearsal dinner is a wonderful way to express your gratitude for their participation in your wedding. It also provides an opportunity for them to socialise with the wedding party and other invited guests. By embracing this tradition, you foster a sense of camaraderie and set the tone for a memorable celebration.

Wedding party introductions

There are many ways to introduce your wedding party, and the best part is that there are no rules! It's your wedding, so you can do whatever you want. Here are some ideas for fun and unique wedding party introductions:

• Individually – one at a time, you could even have the DJ announce some fun facts about each person as they come out.
• In pairs/couples – this is a traditional way to introduce the wedding party.
• The entire wedding party as a whole – announcing "the wedding party" instead of their names.
• All the bridesmaids together – announcing "the bridesmaids".
• All the groomsmen together – announcing "the groomsmen".
• Bride & groom face cutouts – walk in holding a cutout of your faces!
• If either partner is a twin, you could switch places for a unique and funny entrance.
• Ride in on a motorized toy (car, scooter, etc.) – the unexpected is usually a hit!
• T-shirt toss – if you're sports fans, have t-shirts made with your new last name and wedding year, tie them up, and throw them to your guests as your wedding party walks in.
• Disco glow sticks – a giant glow stick entrance to start the party off right.
• Swap outfits – have the bridesmaids and groomsmen swap outfits (if possible!)
• Choreographed dance – have your wedding party learn a short choreographed dance and create a sort of flash mob to kick off your big day.
• Photo Booth props – if you have a photo booth, grab a few props for a funny entrance.
• Unique props – if you have a theme for your wedding, tie that into the entrance. You could use confetti poppers (check with your venue first!), balloons, a bubble/fog machine, a red carpet, a marathon finish line, a sports tunnel, or musical instruments.

If you're not a fan of the grand entrance where the wedding party dances into the reception, you could skip the intros altogether. You could also have the wedding party line up on either side of the entrance and welcome guests in from the cocktail hour to the reception, without any dancing involved.

Attendant dress code

There are a few options for what you can ask your wedding attendants to wear. If you want to include your attendants in the bridal party, you can coordinate their outfits with the bridesmaids. This could mean wearing matching dresses, the same dress in different colours, or the same colour dress in different styles. Alternatively, you can ask your attendants to wear a specific colour that fits your wedding colour palette. This will help them to coordinate with the rest of the wedding party while still allowing them to choose a dress they feel comfortable in. If you don't have a specific outfit in mind, you can let your attendants choose their own outfits, as long as they adhere to the dress code for the wedding. This option works well if your attendants won't be included in the bridal party photos.

Bridesmaids

For bridesmaids, it is common to wear formal attire. This could include a formal cocktail dress, a midi dress, a chic jumpsuit, or a wrap dress. Formal attire is slightly less formal than black-tie, so a dark, well-tailored suit or a floor-length dress are also good options. Tuxedos are not required for this dress code.

Groomsmen

For groomsmen, formal attire means a jacket and tie or a traditional suit. Tuxedos are not required.

Attendant duties

The duties of a wedding attendant, or member of the wedding party, include supporting the couple on their big day and participating in the celebrations. The role can be tailored to the individual, but there are some traditional duties to be aware of.

Before the Wedding

• Assist with wedding planning and offer advice.
• Help plan and host the bridal shower, bachelorette or bachelor party, and other pre-wedding celebrations.
• Track vendors and keep the couple organised.
• Be a point of contact for guests with questions.

On the Wedding Day

• Get ready with the wedding party.
• Escort family members or other guests during the processional.
• Seat guests.
• Act as a witness by signing the marriage certificate.
• Participate in the processional and recessional, either walking alone or escorting a bridesmaid or groomsman.
• Make a speech and/or toast at the reception.

After the Wedding

Continue to offer support to the newlyweds as they adjust to married life.

It is important to remember that these duties are not mandatory, and the couple may ask for additional or alternative tasks to be completed. The role should be discussed and agreed upon before the wedding day.

Attendant gifts

It's customary to give gifts to your wedding attendants as a token of appreciation for all their help and support in the lead-up to your big day. Here are some thoughtful and unique gift ideas to show your gratitude:

• Personalized items: Monogrammed or engraved gifts are a simple way to make presents feel unique and tailored to each person. Ideas include leather valet trays, copper tumblers, and jewelry like necklaces and cufflinks.
• Practical gifts: Think about what your attendants might need throughout the wedding or what would be useful for them afterward. For example, a tumbler to keep them hydrated, a hand cream or fragrance, a cozy bathrobe, or even small bottles of bug spray or sunscreen if you're having a beach wedding.
• Sweet treats: Indulgent treats like gourmet cookies or chocolate truffles are always a welcome gift. You could also opt for something more unique, like instant mimosa sugar cubes or champagne-infused cake bites.
• Relaxation gifts: Help your attendants unwind with a box of spa essentials, a luxury throw blanket, or a scented candle.
• Illustrations: Custom illustrations of your attendants, perhaps including their pets, will be cherished keepsakes.
• Beauty gifts: Beauty and self-care items are always appreciated, especially if they're luxurious treats that your attendants might not usually buy for themselves. Ideas include a silk scrunchie, a hydrating lip treatment, or a hand cream.
• Drink-related gifts: If your attendants enjoy a tipple, there are plenty of gift options, from a bottle of champagne to a fun wine label or a more unusual gift like a YETI drink tumbler or a minibar travel case.
• Keepsakes: Gifts like birth flower necklaces, embroidered handkerchiefs, or trinket dishes will remind your attendants of your special day for years to come.
• Experience gifts: Why not give the gift of an experience, like a gourmet coffee subscription or a cheese board featuring the skyline of their favorite city?

Frequently asked questions