When you’re checking the big things off your wedding planning list, you’ll mark off venue, photographer, gown, rentals – and of course, CATERING! If thinking about Dallas wedding catering doesn’t sound as exciting as some of the other wedding plans, we’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way. North Texas has so many incredible wedding caterers who can make the food you serve at your wedding something truly exciting to plan and even more exciting to eat!

The days of bland and boring are long gone. Today, the options for styles of fare are nearly endless, from food from around the world to elevated home cooking; sit-down dinners or stations. No matter your tastes, you can craft a menu that reflects YOU as a couple. Read on: we’ve got the 411 for everything you need to know about Dallas wedding catering.

Culinary Arts Catering // Photo by Vanessa Martins Photo Co.

When should you book catering for your wedding?

First things first: you’ll want to make sure the venue you choose allows you to bring the caterer of your choice. Many do not! If not, you’ll be expected to use either the venue’s catering service or one of their preferred vendors. If you are allowed to hire the caterer of your choice, you’ll want to book this vendor as early on as possible. Along with the venue rental cost and photography/videography, catering is often one of the biggest (if not the biggest) budget line items – i.e., not one you want to save for last. Booking the caterer right after your venue (ideally 10-12 months before your date) helps ensure the two can work together seamlessly, gives your caterer time to develop menu options and place necessary orders and ensures your budget stays on track.

How does a wedding menu tasting work?

Your caterer will usually meet with you and your fiancé for a menu tasting at least a few months before the big day. Occasionally, more people are allowed at tastings but you’ll certainly want to double check. Here, you’ll get to try the proposed menu items and finalize a plan for exactly what you’ll serve at your wedding. Your caterer will be on hand to describe each menu item and ask for feedback. This is the time to narrow down dishes if you’re still making decisions, or if you’ve chosen dishes already, this is the time to make any adjustments necessary. If you’re not loving something, let them know politely. If you have an idea for an alternative, don’t be afraid to propose it. Before your tasting, your caterer should ask a series of questions to get to know both of your tastes as well as the vibe of your wedding and guest list so they can come up with ideas for your custom menu.

Pro tip: don’t forget to tip the server who brings you your food at the tasting!

What are the different catering service options for weddings?

The four main styles of catering service for wedding receptions include plated, buffet, staffed stations and family-style.

Plated: The most formal of catering styles, a plated meal is ideal if you’re serving multiple courses. Serving a plated meal is also a great option if you’re needing the dinner hour to not drag on, as a wait staff will serve all of your guests simultaneously rather than having guests stand in line or be released by tables for a buffet, which takes much longer.

Buffet: a buffet may be a more budget-friendly way to go, especially if you have a very large guest list. A buffet also allows guests a little more freedom over what goes on their plate, whereas with a plated meal, their plates are prepared for them (remember, you can include a menu card in your invitation suite for guests to choose their plated meal preference).

Stations: stations are a fun option if you’re wanting to offer multiple styles of food or perhaps a more interactive experience!

Family-style: ideal for smaller, more intimate weddings, family-style catering involves large platters of food at each table where guests pass dishes around and serve themselves.

Check out our blog on catering styles to find what works best for you!

How does tipping work for wedding caterers?

Wondering if you’re supposed to tip the caterer at your wedding? The answer is usually yes, but best practices can vary.

Check your catering contract thoroughly, as a service charge or gratuity may already be built in to your fees and required to be paid with the final bill due before your wedding. If it isn’t built in, it’s customary to tip the catering manager like you would at a restaurant: 15-20% of the food/drink fee.

Don’t forget to tip the wait staff and bartenders, as well! Make sure you’re aware whether these staff members will be employed by your venue or by the catering/bartending company separately, and review those contracts to see if any gratuities are included on your bill.

For a more extensive explanation of who to tip on your wedding day and how much, check out our blog on the topic!

Now Trending in Catering

Food trucks at weddings: food trucks are making their way onto the wedding scene and we couldn’t love it more. If your favorite food truck can’t offer comprehensive wedding catering, consider having them make an appearance during cocktail hour to provide appetizers, or a late-night appearance for dessert! Just double-check with your caterer and make sure everyone’s on the same page!

Grazing boards: charcuterie boards have been taken to a whole new level with these massive grazing boards serving dozens upon dozens of delectable snacks. Your guests will love perusing the giant board and picking out their favorites for a custom snack plate!

Drink pairings: work with your caterer and bartender to develop a drink menu that pairs amazingly with your food menu. Consider offering signature drinks that reflect your individual styles!

Stations: as mentioned above, stations are a fun option for couples wanting to offer more unique dishes or more interactive food experiences. Guests might be able to see their food cooked right in front of them, or try a variety of foods from different stations – the options are endless!

Late night snacks: one fun trend we’re loving? Late-night snacks! Ask your caterer about options for surprising your guests with a late night snack to keep the party going even longer. Think outside the box – breakfast food, junk food, fun food – this is one way to really wow your guests and give them a fun experience they won’t forget!

Is your mouth watering yet? Ready to pick the perfect caterer for your big day and serve up the fare no one will forget? Head to our local vendors page to peruse the profiles of lots of talented local North Texas wedding caterers!

If there’s one thing we’re always in the mood for, it’s a destination wedding. Add in a dash of southern hospitality and charming Charleston glam, and we’re all in! We adored how Hannah Heres and Annie Edgarof MK Event Boutique set the mood for this coastal-inspired wedding scene with a summery palette of cerulean, coral and sunshine yellow – all quintessential for a classic Charleston soirée.

Featuring awesome rented pieces from Lawson Rentals plus photos by The Crakes and video by Alex Adkins Creative, see how Hannah’s vision came to life below!

The bride’s stunning gown, veil and fine jewelry, all from BB Lewisville, went perfectly with the elegant southern feel. An understated updo with smoky eyes and a neutral makeup palette by Brite Beauty kept the focus on her beautiful natural features!

It wouldn’t be a southern soirée without a few bows, right?

“Within the tablescape, we had an array of delicate flowers, velvet napkins tied into a bow, modern white glass chargers, gold flatware, dainty glassware, a blue and white patterned linen, wooden crossback chairs, elegant place cards and an assortment of gold candelabras,” said Hannah. “There really was not a single detail that wasn’t an absolute dream.”

Go bold or go home: Hannah and her team chose to go bold with the cerulean blue linens adorning the table and really, could a bigger statement have been made?

“I really loved everything about this shoot from the florals to the venue to the bridal look to the paperie pieces, but if I had to choose one element, I would pick the blue and white patterned linen as what I loved most because it perfectly encompasses the south and added in more of a bold element to the romantic tablescape,” Hannah said.

Can you spot one of Hannah’s favorite details on the bar? Hint: it’s filled with gorgeous blooms!

“We added a variety of floral to this (woven) piece and used it on the bar. It quickly became my favorite detail of the styled shoot because of the history it encompassed and the uniqueness it brought to the styled shoot design.”

Additionally, “hues of blue added a dose of dashing beauty to the lux linens on the head table and the cake table (flanking the beautiful cake by Butterfly Cakery), the invitation suite and to the decor pieces.”

A Charleston wedding would be any southern bride’s dream, but if you can’t go to Charleston, bring Charleston to you! To see more of MK Event Boutique‘s design and planning work, check out their Brides of North Texas vendor profile.

Weddings days should feel like an experience for the senses! Beyond the visual elements, what tastes, smells and sounds do you want to remember for the rest of your days? Our Show Me Love editorial in the FW21 mag details some of our favorite experiential wedding elements for ALL the senses to enjoy. From hot new trends to lasting styles, there are so many details to love!

Love at First Sight

There’s no doubt in our mind you’ll fall head over heels for these new wedding trends at first sight!

Planner: Blissful Weddings & Events | Luisa & Douglas Photography

Blissful Weddings & Events | Love at first sight leads to love at first look. A moment we’ll never get over! Make your first look extra memorable with a letter exchange  – don’t forget the tissues!

Coffee Cart: Olive Coffee Cart | Photo: Hughes Photo Co.

Olive Coffee Cart | We’ll always have heart eyes for a good cup of coffee. Keep your guests happily caffeinated with a coffee cart – custom menu, love and lattes? Yes, please!

Registry: The Dowry | Photo: Jen Burner

The Dowry Registry | Something old, something new. Blend the best of both worlds with unique heirloom registry items you’ll adore. These are the things that help make a house a home!

Photo: Jen Symes Photo | Floral: Intertwine | Beauty: Emily Artistry | Venue: Salubria Manor

Jen Symes Photo | If there’s one thing Bridgerton gave us, it’s an infatuation with Old World European romance, reflected in many of the wedding details we’ve seen photographed this season.

Lasting Love

Classic wedding photography and timeless beauty styles have left a lasting impression on us … and for good reason!

Photo: Catie Ann Photo | Venue: Knotting Hill Place | Gown: Leann’s Bridal | Menswear: Generation Tux

Catie Ann Photo | From the smallest of details to the big picture, capturing it all with fine art photos in timeless tones means your memories last as long as your love – forever!

Hair + Makeup: AshleyDrew Artistry | Photo: Roaming Wild Photography

AshleyDrew Artistry | A classic, natural beauty look never goes out of style. You deserve to look incredible and feel like your best self on your best day ever!

Photo: Marissa Manzanares Photography | Venue: Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Marissa Manzanares Photography | Moments frozen in time … your love can last beyond a lifetime with classic portraits to be cherished for generations to come!

Looks of Love

From engagement photo outfits to reception decor and those special memory-making moments, there’s so many looks to love and capture during your wedding season!

Planner: House of Tales Events | Photo: Anna Haile Photography

House of Tales Events | Prep engagement photo looks that make you and your spouse-to-be feel seriously special. A planner by your side can help coordinate outfits so you can focus on your love that day!

Photo: Marissa Merritt Photography | Venue: The Adolphus Hotel | Rentals: Posh Couture Rentals | Floral: Max Owens Design | Beauty: Jones Beauty Co.

Marissa Merritt Photography | Bold tones, edgy portraits, a jaw-dropping gown … memories captured from each part of the day, more looks to love in every way!

Photo booth: Capture Co. Photo Booth | Beauty: The Styling Stewardess

Capture Co. Photo Booth | Snap to it! Capture all the funny, happy, goofy looks of love and leave with joyful memories of your sweetheart and all your guests with a fun photo booth!

Love Is in the Air

Whether it’s the scent of your wedding dinner wafting through the air or those oh-so-sweet newlywed moments just after your I do’s, these vendors will amplify the love in the air!

Photo: Sami Kathryn Photography | Venue: The French Farmhouse Venue | Floral: Petals & Pastels | Rentals: Loot Rentals | Beauty: Tease to Please Hair & Makeup | Gown: WED Bridal Boutique

Sami Kathryn Photography | All of those lovey dovey moments, the beauty bubbling over, filling the air with a joyful feeling you’ll never be able to replicate – document it all with stunning photography. You’ll be so glad you did!

Catering: Wendy Krispin Caterer | Photo: Megan Kay Photography

Wendy Krispin Caterer | Love is certainly in the air when you can smell the aroma of an incredible spread! Feast your eyes and your tastebuds on an elevated menu your guests will rave about.

Videography: So1Media

So1Media | Because it all goes by so fast … capture the moments, the sounds, the feelings. There’s nothing like your love story, recorded for a lifetime!

Pies, champagne and a shiny diamond ring? Is there a better combo? This adorable picnic proposal has it all and has us swooning! A whimsical coral balloon display by EZ Party Time frames the very spot within the spacious and beautiful Reflections Venue & Gardens where she’ll say yes to forever, and after the ring gets slipped on her finger, they’ll pop the bubbly and dig into a smorgasbord of scrumptious mini pies by Uncle Willie’s Pies! Both brides-to-be looked stunning in baby blue sundresses and hair and makeup by JM Glamour. Tara Arseven Photography captured every moment of what’s surely a life-changing day. Cheers to the soon-to-be Mrs. and Mrs. and their picnic proposal!

SHOP THE POST

Calling all boho wedding aficionados! Are you ready to get in the mood for fall? DFW wedding planner Whitney Bailey of Engaged Events Dallas brings subtle artisanal warmth via neutrals and boho texture to this autumn wedding, and we can’t get enough!

Explains Whitney: “Conley and William’s wedding was beautifully sentimental. It took place in the same spot where the bride’s parents married, in front of the same tree.” Swoon! How special is that!

Keep scrolling to see how Whitney added touches of texture and pops of olive, peach and sage (a palette we’re seeing a ton of this fall already!) to a base of neutrals to bring warmth to this crisp fall day.

“The overall style and design of the wedding was bohemian mixed with modern traditional. We wanted to use a neutral color scheme with pops of olive green and terra cotta. Because Conley and William love nature and the outdoors, we wanted to use natural elements throughout the design as well,” Whitney said.

As for the florals? A mixture of dried grasses, lush blooms and vibrant greenery helped set the mood. “We used a combination of dried and natural elements including pampas grass, dried Ruscus and dried Eucalyptus.”

Who says brown has to be boring? Luxe invitations and tabletop stationery by Hazelwood Paper Co. helped bring in a textural element and continued the neutral color palette full of artisanal warmth.

Says Whitney: “One of my favorite details from this wedding was the collection of wicker baskets that hung above the dance floor along with a lush greenery install.” We LOVE this fun detail – a unique way to add texture with decor you’ll use again and again!

Craving more fall weddings? We’ve got you covered when you search by season! And see more of Whitney’s work via Engaged Events’ Brides of North Texas vendor profile.

Brides Jess and Emily celebrated their special day at The French Farmhouse Venue, styled in blue hues and organic florals galore. Everything from the table linens to the stationery was a dusty shade of periwinkle or navy blue with accents of whites and green to boot. Emily’s Wtoo ball gown, from LeAnn’s Bridal, was the perfect complement to Jess’ off-white suit! The bridal party was all in tears as they peaked out the window to see Jess and Emily’s first look together. It was a beautiful moment where the brides were able to embrace one another before the ceremony began. During the wedding, the brides had a sweet idea to include Pride flags after they were pronounced Mrs. and Mrs. The immense amount of support the brides saw from their family and friends warmed their hearts!

Kimberly Harrell Photography captured all their special moments from the ceremony to the reception, where the bridal party entered with Star Wars Lightsabers! HD Liquid Catering provided their family and friends with delicious signature drinks for the special evening filled with dancing, cake and celebration. Cheers to the newlywed couple and their wedding filled with blue hues!

A favorite wedding day memory: “Our ceremony was absolutely perfect. After all of the planning and organizing and stress, it was the first real moment when we were able to soak in the fact that we were standing there, saying vows, about to be married. During the process of wedding planning, you picture what that moment will look like and it came out as everything we ever dreamed of.”

A favorite wedding detail: “Jess and I choose to incorporate the Pride flag in our wedding. We had each of our guests take a flag before the ceremony began. After we were pronounced Mrs. and Mrs. all our guests waved them during the recessional.” 

If your wedding day is a blank canvas, wedding rentals are the brush strokes that make it a work of art that feels like YOU! From your ceremony space to reception space and literally everywhere in between, chances are you’ll be using rented items to make spaces function the way you need them to and look gorgeous to boot. So which wedding rentals will you need for your day?

Of course, this depends on your vision, your venue and your budget, but the possibilities are truly endless! Below, we’re covering the basic wedding rentals to give you an idea of what types of items you can rent and where you’ll definitely want to allocate some of your budget. Plus, we’re sharing important questions to ask your rental company! Scroll on!

Rentals: Loot Rentals | Venue: Lazy S Hacienda | Photo: Molly Murphy Photography

North Texas Wedding Rentals

Lounge Areas

Think couches, chairs, ottomans, poufs, coffee tables, and side tables. Lounge seating gives your guests a designated space to relax, mingle, sip cocktails and take it all in! Be sure to accommodate for any necessary or upgraded chairs + tables (dining tables, cocktail tables, dessert tables) not included by your venue.

Special Ceremony Furniture

Does your ceremony require a special seating area or an altar that wows? Often, your rental company can accommodate these needs and help you create a spectacular and functional ceremony space. Find North Texas wedding rentals from vendors below that offer stylish and top trending furniture for your big day décor needs:

• Loot Rentals
• POSH Couture Rentals
• Satin Pavement

Rentals: Posh Couture Rentals | Venue: The Nest at Ruth Farms | Photo: Sarah Lanette Photography

Wedding Tabletop Decor Rentals Dallas

Tabletop decor rentals are the items that take your wedding tables from boring to WOW. If your budget doesn’t allow for upgraded linens or custom place settings on every table, consider splurging for just the head table or sweetheart table.

Linens

This includes table covering linens, napkins, runners, and any drapery you might want around your wedding. Don’t be afraid to make it as ethereal as your personal style desires!

Place Settings

When designing your wedding, you’ll want to rent items like dinnerware, chargers, flatware, and glassware. This is where you can mix and match your dream color scheme to create the perfect, inviting spot to make each and every guest feel special!

From linens to lovely glassware, find the trendiest wedding tabletop rentals from these North Texas vendors:

• COHOST
• Loot Rentals
• Paparazzi Glam & Décor Rentals
• POSH Couture Rentals
• BBJ La Tavola

Specialty Wedding Rentals

Photo Booth Rental: Palm and Pine Photo Truck | Photo: Nicole Endress Photography

North Texas Photo Booth Rentals

The specialty wedding rentals category encompasses stages, bars, specialty dance floors, backdrops, photobooths, and balloon installations. Photo booths are one of the cutest ways to entertain your guests while offering a sweet memento at the end of it all for everyone to remember the night by. Use your wedding vibe to determine what style of North Texas photo booths might suit your celebration best. Browse top local pros below!

BROWSE DALLAS PHOTO BOOTHS HERE

Balloon Installation: Pink on the Weekend | Photo: Onikeh Brown Photography

Dallas Balloon Installations

Artful balloon installations add whimsy and fun to any affair, and can be utilized in party spaces long before the big day! Think bridal shower balloon clusters in dreamy color palettes and your soon-t0-be last name. There are endless ways to incorporate this dreamy décor into your wedding plans. Find all the very best info on local wedding balloon garlands below!

EXPLORE DALLAS BALLOON DECOR HERE

Rentals: COHOST

The Little Things

Don’t forget the final touches that help complete your day! Small details and décor can help make your special event uniquely you. Crafted by Cambridge, Looking Glass Calligraphy, and Satin Pavement all specialize in custom details, so check them out for your personalized detail needs!

Decor: Looking Glass Calligraphy | Photo: Amairani Thomason Photography

Small Decor

Spruce up your tabletops and the corners around your celebration with vases, candle holders, mirrors and more!

Photo + Faux Floral Arch: Rent Your Moment 

Faux Floral Arch

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind floral arch or backdrop for your big day, consider a stunning faux floral arch from Rent Your Moment. These hand-crafted, premium faux floral arches are sure to add that wow factor to your special day!

Pop the bubbly and serve the cake!

Find vendors who rent out champagne flutes, serving utensils, and cake stands. If you’re feeling extra fancy, we recommend pouring a champagne tower for guests to imbibe in!

CONNECT WITH NORTH TEXAS DECOR VENDORS HERE

Rentals: Satin Pavement | Photo: Onikeh Brown Photography

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Rental Company

How much do I need of each item? An experienced, professional rental company can help you estimate the perfect quantities based on your expected guest count.

What are the fees? Be aware of any fees for setup, delivery, damage deposits and charges for damaged/lost items. Make sure you know which fees are included within your cost and which fees are incidental/extra.

How is delivery and setup handled? Are there special instructions to operate anything you won’t be setting up?

Are the items I’m viewing in your catalog or warehouse samples or the actual rental items?

You’ll also want to consult with your venue before meeting with the rental company to be aware of what’s included with your venue rental package.

Trying to figure out the right amount of dessert to order for your wedding isn’t always a piece of cake … calculating the right size of wedding cake can be tricky! We’re giving all our best tips for ordering an appropriately sized wedding cake based on your guest count. Let’s get started!

You’ll want to make sure you order enough cake to adequately serve your guests, but without paying for a bunch of extra cake that goes to waste or ending up with a ton of leftovers. A common calculation for wedding cake allows for one slice of bride’s cake per guest and a half slice of groom’s cake. So if you have 100 guests, you’d need 100 servings of bride’s cake and 50 servings of groom’s cake. However, it’s common nowadays for some guests to decline a cake slice, so you can usually get away with ordering enough cake for just 80 percent of guests – remember, that includes ALL the cake you order, whether you do one cake or two (or more!). Always consult with a professional baker to get their opinion, as well!

Cake Serving Size by Tier

Wedding Cake Tier Combos + Total Servings

Questions to Consider When Ordering Wedding Cake:

Are you having one cake or multiple cakes? Remember the 80 percent rule includes enough cake for all your guests between ALL the cakes you’ll have, not just the main bride’s cake.

Are you serving other desserts in addition to cake? If you’re planning on having a full dessert table or serving a different dessert with dinner, you’ll need much less cake. You can probably order about 50 percent cake in this case and fill in with the additional desserts for everyone else.

Do you want to save the top tier of your wedding cake? Many couples choose to partake in the tradition of taking home the top layer of their cake, freezing it, and saving it to eat on their first wedding anniversary. You could also do this with just a couple of slices if you don’t want to save a whole tier!

How is your cake being served? If you’re having a self-serve cake station, you can get away with ordering less cake than if you serve cake with dinner and definitely need a slice for each place setting.

Remember, most wedding cakes are priced by the slice. Typically, cakes run anywhere from $3 to $8 per slice in this region, but that number can sometimes be $10 per slice or more depending on how labor-intensive and intricate your design may be, or if your baker uses specialty ingredients.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding cake with intricate details, sugar flowers, fondant designs, or non-typical ingredients, expect to pay more than the minimum.

Ready to let them eat cake?! Browse some of our favorite North Texas wedding cake bakers and get ready to savor the sweetest part of the day!

I’m a first-time bridesmaid in a wedding this fall. What are some responsibilities along with proper bridesmaid etiquette that I should know?

We received this question from a Wed Society Community Member recently, and with so many ladies filling a bridesmaid role (many for the first time), we want to make sure we cover ALL the details for you!

So, what do bridesmaids do, exactly? We covered specific tasks for the bride’s BFFs in this blog, but if you’re looking for the bridesmaids’ general responsibilities, those can differ. A bridesmaid isn’t just a meaningless title – there’s actually quite a bit involved in the role! Let’s review below!

Photo // Chua Lee Photography

Bridesmaid Responsibilities + Etiquette: What to Keep in Mind

A bridesmaid’s duties start as soon as you are asked to fill the role (usually months before the wedding) and extend through the wedding night. Let’s go over all that’s involved in being a bridesmaid!

Show up!

Attend all the things. And there will be quite a few events! Engagement party. Bridal showers (try to at least attend one, if you can’t make multiple events). Bachelorette party. Rehearsal. Rehearsal dinner. Getting ready together. The wedding (a non-negotiable!). Being a bridesmaid will quickly fill up your calendar, but hey – lots of excuses to get dressed up and celebrate a person you love!

The bride may or may not ask all of her bridesmaids to attend dress try-ons and fittings, but if she does ask and you can make one or two trips, it’s a very nice gesture to tag along and offer honest but always supportive, positive advice.

Additionally, the bride may ask certain bridesmaids to take on certain roles within the ceremony or reception (reading passages, giving toasts, etc.). Do your best to cheerfully accept these roles, even if they’re a bit out of your comfort zone.

Budget for Certain Purchases

If you agree to take on the bridesmaid role, you’ll be expected to pay for attire, events and gifts. Realistically, the cost of being a bridesmaids can total several hundreds of dollars, so be prepared to budget wisely! Here’s what you’re expected to pay for and contribute to:

Bridesmaid dress – the bride may give guidelines and let you shop for your own, or she may have a specific style picked out. Either way, in most cases, bridesmaids are expected to purchase their own dress.

Shoes + jewelry – again, the bride may have a certain pair she’d like everyone to wear or she may give a general guideline (nude strappy, black chunky heel, gold earrings). Do your best to find items that fit her wishes.

Professional hair, makeup and nails for the Wedding – if funds for any of these services are an issue, be sure to let the bride know up front and ask if she’s ok with you doing your own. If she does want everyone to have a specific style – especially an updo or intricate hairstyle, it’s best to do all you can to spring for the pro service.

Shower gift – in addition to chipping in funds for the costs of the shower itself, it’s customary for bridesmaids to give the couple a gift at the shower, or contribute to a large group gift.

Wedding gift – don’t show up empty-handed to the wedding, either. Budget for all gifts ahead of time and remember, you can’t go wrong grabbing something directly from their registry!

Wedding weekend transportation + accommodations – be ready to pay for a hotel, flights and/or transportation if the wedding isn’t local, in addition to other travel costs. Lots to budget for, but often an excuse for a fun trip to somewhere new!

Pitch in with Planning (and Paying)

The Maid or Matron of Honor is typically the person to take the lead on planning pre-wedding events to celebrate the bride, but as a bridesmaid, you’re expected to chip in both with the logistics and the funds. Don’t leave all of the prep work to the MOH!

Bridal shower – offer to help the MOH as well as any of the bride’s family members who may also be contributing to shower preparations. You may offer to pay for certain items or chip in a fraction of the overall cost of the event.

Bachelorette party transportation + accommodations + gift – the hallmark event of the bridesmaid role! As a bridesmaid, you’re expected to pay your own way to the bachelorette party and also to chip in for costs of food, decor and activities. Generally, the bride’s costs for this event should all be covered by her bridal party. Budget for a bachelorette gift and if you absolutely can’t make it to the event, still offer to help cover the bride’s costs if you’re able.

Help Where You Can

Above all, bridesmaid responsibilities include being a source of emotional support for the bride! Even if she doesn’t need you to assist with DIY projects, offer to listen to her vent on occasion, offer advice where you can and provide encouragement along the way. As stressful as being a bridesmaid may be, planning a wedding can take a mental toll! It’s always helpful to bear some of that load.

Bridesmaid Etiquette to Remember

Go with the flow: Your suggestions are welcome, within reason, but the bride has the final say on bridesmaids’ attire. Even if it’s not your favorite style, it’s one night of wearing something that makes your friend happy. Worth it!

Make friends! This isn’t your reality TV version of The Bachelorette. Although your bride friend may have bridesmaid friends from many different eras of her life, which means you may not know everyone or immediately hit it off with everyone, it’s important that you do your best to be friendly and engage with the group.

Know the plan and help keep the day on track: the wedding day will follow an itinerary to keep things on schedule. Be helpful to the bride, her family and her vendors she’s paying quite a bit of money for by being on time, not complaining when it’s time for photos and having a cheerful attitude throughout the day. This means assisting with setup and cleanup as well, if needed!

Keep the dance floor going: there’s nothing more awkward for a couple (and their band or DJ) when the dance floor is noticeably empty. Take the lead as a bridesmaid, grab some hands and get out there and DANCE!

Looking for more guidance as you join your BFF in this special season? Our Community over on Wed Society is filled to the brim with helpful tips and tricks, do’s and don’ts, plus all the answers you could ever need from our expert team of wedding editors who have been there, done that! Whether you’re a bride or a bridesmaid, this Community is for you!

2020 and 2021 certainly changed the way we think about celebrating weddings and made virtual celebrations a totally normal practice. Even as the pandemic dissipates, you may have important guests that can’t make it to your actual wedding, but still want to celebrate with you from afar, and it’s so important to include these folks and make them feel just as important and appreciated as you do your in-person guest list! Read on for our best virtual wedding ideas to to celebrate your wedding with guests both near and far!

Photo // Nicole Lea Photography

1. Live Stream

The most important component of celebrating with guests from afar! Whether you choose Google Hangout, Facebook Live, Instagram Live or Zoom, you’ve got plenty of free options to let guests watch your ceremony and reception no matter where in the world they are. Make sure your guests are on mute so there aren’t any background noise issues. If you’re using a streaming service with a code or meeting ID, you’ll definitely want to include that on the invitation as well. A unique, eye-catching backdrop is another way to jazz up what guests see on the screen of your live stream.

Start streaming before the processional so guests don’t miss a single moment, and ask your officiant to specifically welcome guests celebrating from afar so they feel included! Don’t forget to live stream major reception events, as well, like first dances, cake cutting and toasts! It’s helpful to say goodbye to virtual guests and thank them before “dismissing” them, so they don’t feel like they have to linger. Including a live stream itinerary with your invitation suite is also a helpful way to set virtual guests’ expectations and help them follow along.

Pro tip: add a QR code on your invitation to send guests straight to your live stream!

2. Video Messages

Invite guests celebrating from afar to pre-record video messages and send them to someone (maybe a task for your tech-savvy maid of honor or best man) to compile into one big video with well-wishes from all of your virtual guests. This would be so cute to play during cocktail hour or during dinner!

3. Playlist

Help set the mood on your wedding day with a link to your wedding day playlist (another great place to utilize a QR code or Spotify code). Include a mix of upbeat songs, slower songs and songs that represent your own love story! Guests celebrating with you from afar can jam out the day of your wedding and keep the mood going even after the big day! Take it one step further and make things interactive – keep your virtual wedding guests engaged throughout the wedding with a Bingo card that has them listening for certain songs or watching for certain fun occurrences.

4. Virtual Guest Book

Send out a separate card with your invitation suite (along with an addressed, prepaid envelope) asking for guests to write their advice and well-wishes down before signing the card. Many companies offer services where they’ll digitally compile these notes into a printed keepsake, as if each guest actually signed a physical guest book!

5. Custom Recipe Cards

Another wonderful idea to include with your printed invitation suite (definitely still send printed, mailed invitations to all guests, regardless of whether they’ll be celebrating virtually or not – it helps to set the tone for your day!), a custom recipe card could include the instructions to make your signature cocktail or even your dessert! That way, guests can prep ahead of time and partake in elements of your wedding that engage all the senses, in addition to having a cute keepsake to remember your day. So fun!

6. Care Packages

Show guests celebrating from afar that you care with a thoughtful package mailed to them the week of your wedding. Include non-perishable snacks, individually wrapped desserts similar to what you’re serving in person, favors that carry on your wedding theme, handwritten notes thanking them for celebrating with you, props for a virtual photo booth and even mini champagne bottles to toast from afar!

7. Virtual Photo Booths

Speaking of virtual photo booths, this is one of those virtual wedding ideas we just LOVE! Companies like Capture Co. Photo Booth offer a virtual photo booth where friends and family can access a link and take photos with the wedding frame design that will be added to the wedding photo booth gallery. They’ll be able to feel as if they’re right there at the reception with you!

Bonus Tip: Hire a professional emcee with the technical experience to keep your virtual wedding celebrations running smoothly. This person should have a lively personality to keep virtual guests engaged and feeling included throughout your whole event, but also the know-how to set up cameras and computers correctly as well as handle any live stream technical issues that come up. This will be an investment you and your virtual guests will be glad you made!

Virtual celebrations help ensure your guests can stay safe while celebrating from afar – needing some ideas to help make sure your guests stay safe while they’re celebrating alongside you? Check out our ideas to keep guest safety top of mind!