Our joyful wedding day was almost 49 years ago, at The Country Club of Virginia in Richmond. I was thrilled and honored to wear my mother-in-law’s wedding gown. Our get-away car? A Bell helicopter picked us up on the putting green by the terrace (that would never happen today!). Then, we were off to Bermuda to begin our married lives together.
Why is June the most popular month for getting married?
June is derived from Juno, the goddess of marriage and the protector of women. A wedding in June is considered auspicious, so the couple will be blessed with happiness!
How grateful I am to have such a tradition-minded, international audience who takes the time to share their thoughts and experiences with me!
Case in point: while wearing an ALL-white outfit as a guest attending a wedding in the USA is a no-no, bridesmaids have often worn white in British weddings. The Late Queen Elizabeth II chose white for her bridesmaids, which continues to be a common practice in the UK. Royal wedding participants, i.e., Maid of Honor, Bridesmaids, and usually the children. It is a tradition from centuries ago when they believed white would repel evil spirits. I did not explain this before, so thank you, B.M. and L.C.
Wish to hear more wedding no-no’s?
Here are a few that you kindly shared with me:
~ The biggest no-no in my mind is to accept an invitation and then not show up… especially considering the cost of a sit-down dinner!
J.M.
~ Arriving late to a marriage ceremony is a no-no! Guests, please plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early so that you may be escorted to your seat and not hold up the ceremony.
P.S.
~ Please tell guests to send their wedding gifts sooner rather than later. Send your wedding gift within a week or two after you have received your invitation! Bringing a gift to the reception is a no-no; a bride should not be burdened with organizing the delivery of any presents from the reception venue. Also, I am a recent bride, and getting a thank-you note out before the wedding versus after is much easier!
A.C.
~ It is a no-no to make the bride inquire about who may have sent a gift, so be sure your card is securely attached.
B.D.
~ Ask the bride or mother of the bride the best address to send your gift. The address on the invitation and response envelope may be the address of the bride's parents or even the wedding planner. It may be easier for the bride to have the gift sent to her address instead!
A.M.H.
Thank you all for inspiring others to subscribe to my newsletter—wow!!
Please know how grateful I am to you for being so graciously appreciative and supportive.
Sending pink wishes,
xx
Holly