Cash bars – Email wedding invitations – Including registry information with the invitation. The list goes on. We’ve all seen or heard of these wedding etiquette faux pas. And it seems to be getting more prevalent.
So . . .
Is wedding etiquette really dead – or is it just in limbo?
Have all the rules just been thrown out the window and we just get to make it up as we go along?
Well . . . NO.
The problem or confusion doesn’t stem from the etiquette “rules” themselves but in the simple fact that society has changed through the years so we’re all trying to figure out how these rules still fit – if at all.
The definition of etiquette is: “a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within a society, social class, or group.” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etiquette)
This very definition expresses that etiquette should be ever-changing, as it is a code of behavior according to contemporary norms – contemporary, modern, up-to-date, present, what’s relevant right now.
There is definitely a place for etiquette and rules, but I prefer to think of them as guidelines that are to be tweaked and altered to fit each unique situation.
No, wedding etiquette is not dead. But it needs to evolve and change to keep up with the changes in society and the specific needs of each individual couple.
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
If you’re looking for fun ideas, or need help with your wedding plans contact me at jean@weddingsfromtheheart.net or at 937-581-3647.