As a professional wedding planner since 2016, I’ve seen countless people field awkward conversations with their wedding guests. I did it myself when planning my own wedding!
If I’ve learned anything from more than 60 weddings, it’s that having the right language helps.
Below you’ll find a series of free etiquette templates to help you find the right words to set the boundaries that will make your wedding what you and your partner(s) want it to be: a joyful, safe space to begin your marriage.
When a guest is offering something — including money — that you don't want
Why wouldn’t you want something from a guest particularly if the thing they are offering is money? Lots of reasons.
Use this template to acknowledge the intent without accepting the offer.
When a guest is offering to help but you don't know what to ask for yet
“Let me know how I can help!” is one of the most common responses my clients receive when they tell people that they’re planning a wedding. Unfortunately, this response puts the burden on the people planning (i.e. exactly what we don’t want to do).
Use this template to acknowledge the offer and then take a concrete step to actually use it.
When you're inviting one person but not their partner(s)
This happens more than you might think and it doesn’t have to be the end of the world.
Use this template to share (limited) context on why you and your partner(s) made the choice to not allow certain guests plus-ones.