The formal bridal party consists of four to twelve attendants; a maid or matron of honor, the best man,
bridesmaids, one usher for every fifty guests, one or two flower girls, and a ring bearer. The bride's gown is a
work of art, full length, usually with a train and veil.
The number of guests is often between 150 and 400 (and may be as high as 800 or more). It's not unusual for the
bride and groom to enlist the aid of a wedding consultant in planning these lavish events.
Some, but not all, of the guidelines shown above are relaxed in a semi-formal wedding. The ceremony and
reception can take place in a variety of locations and both are often held at the same place.
Semi-formal weddings usually have fewer attendants, and wedding attire and flowers may be less traditional
and more innovative.
bridesmaids, one usher for every fifty guests, one or two flower girls, and a ring bearer. The bride's gown is a
work of art, full length, usually with a train and veil.
The number of guests is often between 150 and 400 (and may be as high as 800 or more). It's not unusual for the
bride and groom to enlist the aid of a wedding consultant in planning these lavish events.
Some, but not all, of the guidelines shown above are relaxed in a semi-formal wedding. The ceremony and
reception can take place in a variety of locations and both are often held at the same place.
Semi-formal weddings usually have fewer attendants, and wedding attire and flowers may be less traditional
and more innovative.
How Formal Is Your Wedding?
Formal weddings are usually held in a church, synagogue, temple, a
hotel ballroom,
home or a garden. These weddings follow a myriad of time- honored
customs,
preserved down to the last elegant detail.
Invitations are traditionally worded and often custom printed; the
wedding photographs are carefully orchestrated; the dinner or luncheon
is an elaborate sit-down affair or a generous buffet. Tables bear
professionally-designed floral displays and boast a profusion of linens and
crystal. A live orchestra or band provides music for the guests.
hotel ballroom,
home or a garden. These weddings follow a myriad of time- honored
customs,
preserved down to the last elegant detail.
Invitations are traditionally worded and often custom printed; the
wedding photographs are carefully orchestrated; the dinner or luncheon
is an elaborate sit-down affair or a generous buffet. Tables bear
professionally-designed floral displays and boast a profusion of linens and
crystal. A live orchestra or band provides music for the guests.
Informal weddings come in all sizes and settings, from a cluster of
friends gathered around a fire in a country lodge to an expansive fete
on a rented yacht. Many informal weddings are second marriages and
they often take place in the daytime.
Appropriate attire might be a knee or ankle length dress or a suit in
white or pastel.
The invitation can be anything from a handwritten note to a custom
designed card.
Floral arrangements and decorations are optional, but most couples
prefer to dress up the setting with flowers, perhaps presented in
casual baskets or vases rather than in formal displays.
Many informal weddings do not feature full meals. Instead guests are
treated to refreshments such as hors d'oeuvres, punch and
champagne, and wedding cake. Or, the couple may choose to host a
small intimate dinner for close family and friends.
friends gathered around a fire in a country lodge to an expansive fete
on a rented yacht. Many informal weddings are second marriages and
they often take place in the daytime.
Appropriate attire might be a knee or ankle length dress or a suit in
white or pastel.
The invitation can be anything from a handwritten note to a custom
designed card.
Floral arrangements and decorations are optional, but most couples
prefer to dress up the setting with flowers, perhaps presented in
casual baskets or vases rather than in formal displays.
Many informal weddings do not feature full meals. Instead guests are
treated to refreshments such as hors d'oeuvres, punch and
champagne, and wedding cake. Or, the couple may choose to host a
small intimate dinner for close family and friends.
| Copyright © 2009 Carolyn Burke - Wedding Liaison |
