Essential Wedding Terms Every Couple Should Know
- Susan Stow
- Oct 20
- 4 min read
Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the challenges couples face is understanding the many terms and phrases used in the wedding industry. From invitations to receptions, knowing the right terminology can make the planning process smoother and more enjoyable. This wedding terminology guide will help you become familiar with essential wedding terms, so you can communicate confidently with vendors, family, and friends.
Understanding the Wedding Terminology Guide
When you start planning your big day, you will encounter a variety of terms that might seem confusing at first. This wedding terminology guide breaks down those terms into simple explanations. Knowing these words will help you make informed decisions and avoid misunderstandings.
For example, terms like "RSVP," "boutonniere," and "rehearsal dinner" are common but might be unclear to some couples. Understanding these terms ensures you know what to expect and how to prepare.
Tips for using this guide:
Refer back to it whenever you come across unfamiliar wedding words.
Share it with your wedding party and family to keep everyone on the same page.
Use it to create a checklist of tasks and items related to each term.
Planning your wedding with a clear understanding of terminology helps keep everything organized.
Key Wedding Terms Every Couple Should Know
Here are some of the most important wedding terms you will encounter during your planning journey:
1. RSVP
RSVP stands for "Répondez s'il vous plaît," a French phrase meaning "Please respond." It is a request for guests to confirm whether they will attend the wedding. This helps you get an accurate headcount for catering and seating arrangements.
2. Boutonniere
A boutonniere is a small floral decoration worn by the groom, groomsmen, or other male members of the wedding party. It is usually pinned to the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo.
3. Rehearsal Dinner
This is a dinner held the night before the wedding, typically attended by the couple, their families, and the wedding party. It is a time to rehearse the ceremony and enjoy a meal together.
4. Centerpiece
A centerpiece is a decorative item placed in the middle of each table at the reception. It can be floral arrangements, candles, or other themed decorations.
5. Processional
The processional is the part of the ceremony when the wedding party walks down the aisle. It usually starts with the bridesmaids and groomsmen, followed by the bride.
6. Reception
The reception is the celebration held after the wedding ceremony. It often includes food, drinks, dancing, and speeches.
7. Save the Date
A "Save the Date" is a card or digital announcement sent to guests well in advance of the wedding to inform them of the date and location.
8. Wedding Officiant
The officiant is the person who performs the wedding ceremony and legally marries the couple. This can be a religious leader, judge, or a friend or family member authorized to officiate.
9. Bridal Shower
A bridal shower is a party held before the wedding to celebrate the bride and give her gifts.
10. Wedding Party
The wedding party includes the bride and groom’s closest friends and family who participate in the ceremony, such as bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers.
Beautiful centerpieces add charm and elegance to the wedding reception.
What are the wedding words?
Wedding words are the specific terms and phrases used to describe the various elements, roles, and traditions involved in a wedding. These words help everyone involved understand what is expected and how the event will unfold.
For example, knowing the difference between a "first look" and a "first dance" can help you plan your timeline better. A "first look" is a private moment before the ceremony when the couple sees each other for the first time, while the "first dance" happens during the reception.
Other wedding words include:
Escort Cards: Cards that guide guests to their assigned seats.
Maid of Honor: The bride’s chief attendant, usually a close friend or sister.
Best Man: The groom’s chief attendant.
Unity Ceremony: A symbolic act during the ceremony representing the joining of two lives, such as lighting a unity candle or sand ceremony.
Understanding these words will help you navigate conversations with vendors and family members more easily.
For a more comprehensive list, you can explore a detailed wedding glossary that covers many more terms.
Wedding invitations and RSVP cards are essential for guest communication.
How to Use Wedding Terms to Your Advantage
Knowing wedding terminology is not just about sounding knowledgeable. It can actually save you time, money, and stress. Here’s how:
Communicate Clearly with Vendors: When you know the terms, you can explain exactly what you want. For example, if you want a "cocktail hour" before the reception, you can specify this to your caterer and venue.
Plan Your Budget Better: Understanding terms like "plus one," "vendor meals," and "day-of coordinator" helps you anticipate costs.
Create a Detailed Timeline: Knowing the order of events, such as the "processional," "ceremony," "recessional," and "reception," allows you to build a smooth schedule.
Involve Your Wedding Party: Use terms like "rehearsal dinner" and "bridal shower" to keep your wedding party informed and engaged.
Avoid Last-Minute Surprises: When you understand terms like "vendor contract" and "payment schedule," you can manage expectations and deadlines.
Final Thoughts on Wedding Terminology
Mastering wedding terminology is a valuable step in your wedding planning journey. It empowers you to make confident decisions and communicate effectively with everyone involved. Whether you are discussing floral arrangements, seating charts, or ceremony details, knowing the right words makes the process more enjoyable.
Remember, this guide is a starting point. As you dive deeper into planning, you will encounter more terms and traditions unique to your style and culture. Keep this wedding terminology guide handy, and don’t hesitate to ask your vendors or planners for clarification when needed.
Happy planning!
Comments