Our daughter, Alexandra, married Maximilian in the glorious Berlin Cathedral (Berlin Dom), the largest Protestant cathedral in Germany.
Summer is approaching and wedding season is upon us! Recently, I have had the honor of attending a few lovely weddings, and I was inspired to share a few wedding guest reminders.
What one word is considered inappropriate to say to a bride?
Traditionally, "Congratulations" is never said to a bride! Why? It implies that the bride won the groom, when in fact, the groom should be congratulated for having the bride accept his proposal. So, you may certainly say "Congratulations" to the groom and extend your "best wishes" to the bride, along with your sentiments of happiness and joy for her. It is always appropriate to extend your "best wishes" to both the bride and groom.
When should you arrive for the ceremony?
Arrive early, up to 20 minutes before the appointed time on your invitation, or earlier if you know the wedding party will fill the church. This will enable you to have ample time to be seated and a moment to read the program. Do not plan to arrive at the stated time of the ceremony, as that is when the the ceremony will actually commence.
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What a joyful moment for our family. And... they lived happily ever after!
While in church for a wedding ceremony, what should both men and women guests respectfully do?
Be sure to remove sunglasses, turn cell phones off or on mute (without vibration), do not chew gum and most importantly, remember to stand up the moment the bride enters the church at the top of the aisle when the processional music begins!
What color dress should a lady not wear to a wedding?
Respectfully, lady guests should refrain from wearing all white, unless permission is granted by the bride. This is a day when the bride should shine and stand out from the crowd as the only one in white. Black is considered a funeral color, and is traditionally never worn to a wedding. Wear the appropriate attire, per the formality of the invitation, and definitely not anything that is overly revealing. Preferably, inquire what color the bridesmaids will be wearing so that you do not wear the same color. For ladies and gentlemen, when in doubt about the dress code, ask the bride or groom.
The guests gathered on the steps of the cathedral to share their joy and best wishes with the newlyweds!