Important Wedding Lingo You Need to Know

1. Cocktail Attire

   

   Annika Huett

   Slightly less formal than black tie and black tie optional (where tuxedos are definitely suggested), a cocktail dress code states that women should wear a cocktail dress or dressy suit, while men should wear a suit and tie (feel free to leave your tux at home).

2. Day-Of Coordinator

   

   Annika Huett

   The ideal choice for couples who may not want (or be able to afford) a full-service planner but would still like a pro to assure everything goes according to plan on the day of the wedding. Need a rundown of every different type of wedding planner? Read here, then decide which one’s right for you.

4. Maid of Honor

   

   Annika Huett

   Also known as MOH, the maid of honor is a friend or relative of the bride designated to lead all bridesmaid duties. If the chosen attendant is married, the MOH stands for matron of honor instead. Read up on day-of maid of honor duties to know, right here.

5. Marriage License

   

   Annika Huett

   Obtained from the state registrar’s office where you plan to tie the knot, a marriage license grants you permission to legally wed (your officiant needs to make it official). After the signed license is filed, you’ll receive a marriage certificate.

7. Overtime

   

   Annika Huett

   Sports fans probably already know this one. Like a football game, wedding receptions can go over the intended time frame (often indicated in the venue contract) and into overtime. If your wedding is extended, OT fees may apply for the venue, as well as the band, photographer or other vendors you’ve contracted on an hourly basis. Be sure any OT fees are spelled out clearly in your contracts so the rate won’t be a surprise.

8. Per Person

   

   Annika Huett

   The “PP” that appears next to the pricing you see on your contracts indicates cost per guest (or per person). You’ll want to keep an eye out for this type of pricing structure on anything that involves your catering or liquor choices.

9. Processional and Recessional

   

   Annika Huett

   The processional is the entry of the wedding party into the ceremony—the officiant, groom(s), attendants and/or finally the bride(s). The recessional is the exit.

11. Save-the-Date

    

    Annika Huett

    A precursor to the formal invitation, your save-the-date notifies guests to mark their calendars for your day. Etiquette suggests sending them out six to eight months before your wedding (about 8 to 10 months before if you’re having a destination wedding).

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