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So, you have your *wedding* and then you have your *wedding weekend*. It sounds extensive but the phrase wedding weekend simply refers to the days before and after your actual ceremony and all the events that you fit into those days. Most commonly, a wedding weekend will include a [welcome gathering](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/heres-exactly-what-to-put-in-your-wedding-welcome-bags) of some kind, a rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and reception, and a farewell breakfast. Note: Just because weekend is in the name, doesn’t mean those celebrating [weekday weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) can’t also plan and enjoy these extras.

## Why Plan a Wedding Weekend?
Wedding weekends are popular because it provides more time for the couple and their guests to spend more time together celebrating and catching up (in the case of geographically distant friends and family). Multiple small celebrations also allow both sides of the family to play host if they want. For example, if the couple is paying for the wedding themselves, one set of parents can host the rehearsal dinner and the other set can host the breakfast. 

If nothing else, spreading out your wedding celebration across a full weekend is flat-out fun. When it comes to such a memorable event such as your wedding, you deserve to make the most of it—however you see fit. 

A full-fledged weekend celebration does require more planning and coordination than a single event, of course. You might feel a bit overwhelmed at the thought of trying to pull each and every event off—but don’t. The events of your wedding weekend can be as elaborate or simple as you prefer.

To help you navigate the ins and outs of your three-day wedding weekend, here’s a look at what each event typically entails, and what you need to know to nail the celebration.

![Unsplash InlineImage 1080x720 (3)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5a3Q0j4gI6llobdgDv5BRp/2fb1fd9ca681854c47ee47044232d75a/Unsplash_InlineImage_1080x720__3_.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Unsplash

## Welcome Party
__What:__ A welcome party is traditionally the kick-off event to the wedding weekend. It serves as an opportunity for the bride, groom, and their respective families to welcome their guests who’ve come from near and far. It’s often a cocktail-hour type of event with passed hors d'oeuvres, but can be any other type of event the couple chooses, from bowling to an outdoor picnic to simply meeting for casual drinks in the hotel lobby.

__Who hosts:__ Whoever is hosting the wedding also hosts the welcome party, be it the bride and groom, their parents or any other relative.  

__When:__ The welcome party is typically held on the first evening of the wedding weekend, which might be a Thursday or a Friday. 

__Who attends:__ It’s customary to invite your entire guest list to your welcome party. 

__Where:__ A welcome party can really be held anywhere the bride and groom chooses, however, it’s most often held in a central location that’s convenient for all invited guests, be it the wedding venue itself, the hotel everyone’s staying at, or a local bar or restaurant nearby. 

## Rehearsal
__What:__ Just as it sounds, a wedding rehearsal is just that—a rehearsal of the wedding ceremony itself. You want to make sure things run smoothly as you prepare to say your “I dos.” A wedding rehearsal ensures that you and your soon-to-be spouse as well as all those involved in your ceremony (i.e. your [wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-is-a-wedding-party-and-do-you-need-one), parents, and any other honorary relatives or friends) know what their role is and what they’re expected to do once things begin. 

__Who hosts:__ The officiant usually hosts and coordinates the wedding rehearsal. It’s up to the couple to make sure to convey all logistical information to their wedding party.

__When:__ Usually the night before the wedding. It typically takes no more than 30 minutes at the most, since it is merely a quick run-through of ceremonial events. 

__Who attends:__ Anyone who has a role in the ceremony should attend the rehearsal. This may include the couple, their parents, siblings and grandparents, the wedding party, and any other family members who will play a role in the ceremony. 

__Where:__ The rehearsal is most often held at the exact location of the ceremony. This helps familiarize all of the participants with the venue itself and ensures they know where to be at all times. 

## Rehearsal Dinner
__What:__ The rehearsal dinner is an occasion for all of the main participants of your wedding ceremony to enjoy a meal together the night before the wedding itself.

__Who hosts:__ Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner is hosted by the groom’s family, especially if the bride’s family is paying for the wedding. However, depending on how costs are being divided, anyone could really host—the couple, parents, or even grandparents. 

__When:__ The rehearsal dinner is typically held directly after the wedding rehearsal. 

__Who attends:__ The rehearsal dinner is an intimate affair that includes the couple, the wedding party and their significant others, immediate family members (parents and siblings), as well as grandparents, aunts and uncles. Sometimes, however, invitations are extended to guests traveling far distances, too.

__Where:__ The rehearsal dinner is often held at a nearby restaurant. If the wedding is in either fiance’s hometown or in the city in which the couple lives, the rehearsal dinner location is often a place that holds significance for the couple. 

Some couples choose to keep their rehearsal dinner on-theme. For example, if they’re having a barnyard wedding, they may hold their rehearsal dinner at a rustic venue. If they’re having a beach wedding, they might also choose to have their rehearsal dinner beachside. 

![Unsplash Inline Image 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6oJLHTDnDspbUu114Y7zIL/fc6ec35144099c5db1ae3ca2e5dd7f71/Unsplash_Inline_Image_1080x720.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Unsplash

## Wedding Ceremony & Reception
__What:__ The ceremony and reception are the main event—aka when the actual nuptials go down. The ceremony is more formal and when the couple says “I do.” Once the ceremony has commenced, the reception begins!

__Who hosts:__ The actual ceremony and reception are traditionally hosted by the bride’s parents, although who hosts and pays for the wedding is entirely up to the people involved. Sometimes it’s the case that both sets of parents split the hosting duties (also known as dual-hosting). 

__When:__ The ceremony and reception typically occur in the middle of the wedding weekend. 

__Who attends:__ All invited guests attend the ceremony and reception as well as the officiant and any hired vendors.  

__Where:__ Weddings are held in a wide variety of venues—from religious spaces like churches or synagogues to secular ones like barns, hotels, or the beach. The reception is usually held in a separate venue, or, if you’re wedding is at a banquet hall or another all-inclusive venue, it may be in the same location as the ceremony. 

## Wedding Afterparty
__What:__ A wedding afterparty is a post-reception event that can be either planned or spontaneous and is for the purpose of continuing the celebration. Most wedding afterparties involve some kind of drinking and late-night snacking, which comes in clutch for hungry guests. 

__Who hosts:__ It’s often hosted by the couple themselves, but may sometimes be coordinated by their respective parents. 

__When:__ A wedding afterparty occurs directly following the wedding reception. 

__Who attends:__ A wedding afterparty can be as intimate or inviting as a couple chooses. Usually there’s an open-door policy. Anyone who attended the wedding is welcome to attend the afterparty. 

__Where:__ A wedding afterparty is often held at a hotel or in another room of the wedding venue itself. Alternately, continue the [wedding reception at a restaurant](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/restaurants-breweries) or bar. 

## Farewell Brunch
__What:__ The farewell brunch is a day-after affair held for all of the guests who attended the wedding, especially (or sometimes only) those who have traveled from a far distance. This event gives the couple the chance to chat with guests who they may not have been able to interact with during the wedding reception or afterparty.

__Who hosts:__ Traditionally, the farewell brunch is hosted by one set of parents—or sometimes both. 

__When:__ The farewell brunch is held the morning after the wedding. 

__Who attends:__ In most cases, the farewell brunch is exclusive to the guests who are staying at the hotel or who have traveled far distances to attend the wedding. Invitations are also often extended to the wedding party and close family members. 

__Where:__ To make things most convenient for wedding guests, the farewell brunch is often held at the hotel where most guests are staying. Alternately, it can be held at a local restaurant or at the home of a family member or parent. 

While these are the standard events included in a wedding weekend, how you choose to celebrate and spend time with your guests is entirely up to you! Decide as a couple what events you would like to host for your guests and which you don't need. 


How to Plan a Wedding Weekend

The events of the past year—including the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the 2020 presidential election—have prompted many people to consider (or even reconsider) their beliefs and think about ways that they can support the social justice issues, such as racial inequality, mass incarceration, and environmental justice, that are most meaningful to them. 

That includes not only posting about it on social media, but also walking the walk and investing time, money, and other resources into causes that they care about. And for many, it may also mean including those elements into their wedding, whether in a public or private way. Here are some ideas on how you can incorporate your activism and social-justice values into your wedding.

## Have It Come from the Heart
“Please begin with not forcing this,” says Oakland, California–based Planner Lea Stafford. “If this is not a true passion of yours, please leave it be. If this is a passion of yours, chances are incorporating activism or social justice will come quite naturally. It truly is about personal experience and message—this is a bespoke process and less of a one-size-fits-all approach.” The goal is to incorporate your values in an authentic, genuine way, not one that feels forced or performative.

![inline stocksyjeremypaylowski](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5X9jevsX1SYyXPliVaNddq/468851da64813e901fe56f424e6f0f6f/inline_stocksyjeremypaylowski.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Jeremy Paylowski

## Determine How Much Attention to Draw
It may not be appropriate to highlight with equal attention all of your values at your wedding, depending on your guests and the larger moment. You don’t want to offend guests who are significant to you, especially your parents (for example) if they are contributing funds for the wedding. 

Likewise, you don’t want guests to feel pressure to engage in politics or some sort of faux wokeness, particularly around issues that they may not completely agree with. And you probably want people to have fun at your wedding, above all. Think hard about what feels right for you and for your guests. Take care not to have your gestures seem preachy or performative—sometimes a smaller act, that no one even knows about besides you, can have the most impact.

## Let Your Money Speak Your Values
Incorporating social justice beliefs “starts even before the wedding itself!” points out Amy Shack Egan, founder of Brooklyn’s Modern Rebel. “In the planning process, where you put your dollars matter. Consider hiring BIPOC, woman, and queer vendors so that your investment isn't just in your wedding, but in a diverse group of entrepreneurs.” 

Look for nonprofits that might have event space available to rent. Review your vendor’s online portfolios to see if there’s representation beyond the wedding-industry standard of straight, white, wealthy, and thin. Find vendors who are committed to giving back to community members as part of their business models. 

![inline stocksy (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1cOCU9Wn35zAkkodeI5D27/eb07ef387220a7e95c7dce47043e8d9a/inline_stocksy__1_.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Stocksy

## Ideas to Incorporate Activism and Social Justice into Your Wedding

- Think about making a more concerted effort during your ceremony to educate guests on your values. In your vows to each other, you and your SO can also make a vow to your community and the world about the contributions you intend to make together. 
- Offer a land acknowledgement at the start of your ceremony as a gesture of respect and goodwill toward Indigenous people.
- Set up a table where people can write postcards to their representatives, sign petitions about issues you care about, or put in donations to your favorite charity. 
- Name your tables after activists, and at each table set out short trivia quizzes about politics and history. 
- Add nonprofits that you support to your registry. Wedding guests will have the choice to give money to organizations that fight for social justice topics such as climate change, criminal justice reform, and civil rights. 
- Instead of giving out favors to each guest, take the money you would have spent on favors and donate it to a charity doing social work that you support.
- Make your wedding as sustainable as possible.
- Make a donation to an organization that supports social problems such as racial injustice, human rights, or social inequality in honor of your marriage. Even better, make it an annual tradition to give every year on your anniversary.
- Weddings can be a place where gender roles are still deeply entrenched. Think about how gender plays a role in weddings: Respect the identities of guests when addressing invitations and consider focusing less on gender to determine, for example, how the wedding party is organized, who walks down the aisle with whom, who pays, who speaks, and who wears a suit.
- Give back through your guests’ hotel rooms with a company such as Hotels for Hope, which donates two dollars per room to children’s nonprofit partners.
- Look for ethical, fair-trade wedding dresses and rings. 

Remember, your wedding should express your values as a couple, and it’s a unique opportunity to reach many people—don't miss the opportunity to do some good in the world, even in a small way, and support the issues that you believe in.


Incorporate Your Activism and Social-Justice Values into Your Wedding

20 Black Wedding Dress Designers to Know

LGBTQ+ Guide for Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions

The Ultimate Guide for LGBTQ+ Wedding Planning

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How to Incorporate Your Activism and Social-Justice Values into Your Wedding

Summer is a season chalked full of celebrations of all shapes and sizes, and July’s certainly the month at the center of it all. For many, the beautiful “dog days” of July are booked with vacays, rest days, barbecues, and you guessed it, weddings! If you’re wanting to nail down a July wedding date, there are a few things you should take into account. 

Here’s all you need to know to celebrate your July wedding to the fullest.

## The Basics<a id="celebrate"> </a>
#### History and Culture
Here are a few fun facts about July that add to the perks of getting married this month:

- The month of July was originally called *“Quintilis”*, meaning “fifth month”, marking where it originally fell on the Roman 10-month calendar.  It was then renamed in 45 BCE in honor of Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator who laid the groundwork for our 12-month calendar. 
- Numerous countries around the globe celebrate their independence days in July, including the United States, Argentina, Belarus, Venezuela, Belgium, the Bahamas, and the Maldives. The national days for France and Canada are also in July.
- With July at the heart of the summer season, you can count on long days and beautiful weather to add to the joy of celebrating a wedding this month.

## Ideas and Inspiration
#### What’s in Season
Some of the best and brightest [food](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer) and [flowers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers) will be in season for your mid-summer wedding.

- If the sun’s going to be out in full force on your big day, match that energy with colorful fresh fruit and veggie spreads. Nothing says “summer” like a bowl of garden greens followed by melons, peaches, and raspberries for dessert.
- Flavors of the season are tart and refreshing. Lemon, mango, and coconut add a tropical flair to any sweet drinks.
- Take advantage of what’s in bloom by letting sunflowers, orchids, dahlias, and lilies shine in your decor. These buds will fill your [wedding bouquets](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/your-complete-guide-to-dried-flower-bouquets) with bold yellows, oranges, pinks, and purples.

#### Weather <a id="weather"> </a>
The month of July is usually when the summer heat gets its hottest, but it could also bring with it some unexpected storms.

- July marks the second month of hurricane season for the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific regions. States, including Florida, North Carolina, and Louisiana, and many popular Caribbean wedding destinations are prone to tropical storms.
- Also on watch: States such as California and others on the West Coast where drought conditions can spark large-scale fires resulting in poor air quality and possibly evacuations.
- Outside temperatures in the South and Southwest can get as hot as 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

Stay tuned in to your local weather forecasts for updates around your wedding date. Your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/destination-wedding-website-help-your-guests-prepare-for-your-wedding) is one of the best ways to let your guests know your backup plans for unexpected weather changes on your big day.

#### Holidays <a id="season"> </a>
July is perfect for filling your days with all kinds of wedding celebrations since it’s a month without many major holidays.

- July 1: Canada Day
- July 4: Independence Day (U.S.)
- July 14: Bastille Day 

Though the month is light on official holidays, it makes up for it by being the national month of some of our favorite things, i.e. National Ice Cream Month and National Picnic Month.

#### Theme Ideas
Enjoy the luxury to pick and choose from all kinds of wedding venues and locations for your July wedding.

- Stay true to the season with a [seaside ceremony on either coast](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-wear-to-a-beach-wedding) or opt for the blue-green waters popular in island destinations. 
- Backyards are made for more than just barbecues. Host an [intimate backyard wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) that embodies summer vibes.
- Take your wedding all the way outside to a national park, [botanical garden](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/botanical-garden-weddings-what-you-need-to-know), or vineyard.
- [Barn weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you) with DIY touches make for an authentically rustic affair.

This time of the year is really where outdoor venues *sparkle and shine*. From string lights and lanterns to candles and sparklers, don’t miss the chance to really have fun with your outdoor wedding decor. 

#### Clothing Ideas
The cakes shouldn't be the only things getting a little “naked” this season.

- Keep things lightweight and airy to match the warm weather. Your wedding party and guests should make the most of shorter hems and even shorter sleeves.
- Cotten and linen are popular choices for this wedding season but don’t overlook the stylishness of a silk or chiffon look.

__Quick color tip:__ With spring far behind us, July’s officially time to hang up the neutrals and pastels. Show up and show out in bold and colorful patterns, or opt for deep jewel tones for a more formal setting.

## Zola Facts
Want to know how couples are celebrating their July weddings? Here are some fun facts from Zola.

### Couples’ Favorite July Wedding Invites + Paper Designs

- [Riverside Suite](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/364d592a-67e7-4ef8-aed0-63a732e0e710)- This timeless design features a whimsical handwritten script that accents your custom photo.
- [Violin Suite](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/897d0d4a-2c72-4201-b1d7-e71451f6b309)- This classic design features dramatic script calligraphy over your own custom photo.
- [DIY Portrait](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/afe11498-7506-4d03-b30f-d7a024c91afa) - Printed on luxe paper, this option is perfect for couples who want to upload a wedding invitation design from their own files.

### Average Guest Count for July Weddings
The average number of wedding guests on the guestlist for a July wedding is __148__.

### Popular Registry Adds for July Weddings
- [Hip White Wine Glass](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/crate-and-barrel-hip-white-wine-glass)
- [Marin Low Pasta Bowl](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/crate-and-barrel-marin-low-pasta-bowl-white)
- [Hip Champagne Glass](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/crate-and-barrel-hip-champagne-glass)

## Things to Consider<a id="popular"> </a>
#### Popularity

July holds a ton of perks when it comes to hosting weddings, and that means the month’s often in high demand.

- The summer months are often some of the busiest wedding months of the year, so be prepared to [book your vendors well in advance](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to lock in your date.
- RSVPs roll in a lot faster as guests rush to fill their summer schedules. Along with having more flexibility, a little extra room in budgets for travel and gifts this season makes July a wedding month filled with opportunity.

#### Cost

Rising demand for July wedding dates brings with it higher prices and less availability.

- Expect popular venues and vendors to be booked well in advance this month and for those unbooked to be sporting summer prices to match the demand.
- July’s flexibility does open up options that can suit almost any wedding budget, from DIY backyard ceremonies to 5-star all-inclusive destination elopements. 
- Keep in mind unpredictable weather patterns can potentially drive up costs as you factor backup plans into your budget.

A month like July is hard to resist when deciding what time of the year is right for your wedding. Bright summer days are truly a beautiful backdrop for any celebration but do keep in mind the weather, seasonal popularity, and jam-packed schedules that tag along with this wedding month. But don’t sweat it! Zola can help you [get ready for any and all things weddings](https://www.zola.com/wedding/manage) all year round. 


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July Wedding? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Green themed wedding invitation on marble top

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Bride and groom kissing outside of their wedding trolley

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The coronavirus pandemic has caused unprecedented shifts in the wedding industry, as well as many couple’s wedding plans. From [postponements](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-postpone-your-wedding) to drastically cutting down guest lists, those who had wedding dates set for this year have made various changes to their original wedding plans. 

While many of these were something of a bummer, one popular option presents plenty of upsides. Enter: the sequel wedding. If two wedding events sound better than one, read on to learn more about having a sequel wedding and how to plan your own.

### What Is a Sequel Wedding?<a id="1"> </a>  

![How to Plan Your Sequel Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ABNEdCrujXU7CmZ6DUuwu/6bc9a56ab2a32c0a3db2012286eea76b/inline_Jessika_feltz_photography.jpg)
*Photo Credit * // Jessika Feltz Photography

A sequel wedding happens when a couple decides to have a smaller wedding ceremony (such as an [elopement, minimally, or micro-wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/micro-weddings)) and then a larger celebration at a later point in time. Simply put, it’s a part two or continuation. Think Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner’s Vegas vows, followed by their larger wedding a month later. 

Couples may decide to split their wedding into two parts due to location, a larger ceremony not being financially viable at the time, or if they’re unable to host large groups for public safety—for example, in the case of, say, a [global pandemic](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/guests-weddings-and-vaccines-what-you-need-to-know). That hasn’t always been the case, though. Technically speaking, sequel weddings have been around for quite a while, specifically in cultures where multiple ceremonies are a part of the tradition. Modern couples of all kinds, especially in the time of COVID-19, have taken to this format to accommodate both themselves and their guests. 

Whether you have a courthouse wedding, backyard I do’s, or [virtual vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-host-a-virtual-wedding-ceremony-with-ease), planning a sequel wedding allows you to solidify your union now (or as originally planned), and postpone the rest. If organizing two weddings, let alone one, sounds intimidating, fear not. Changing any part of a wedding can be challenging, but by keeping a few key things in mind, planning a second wedding is completely manageable. Let’s review how to plan your sequel wedding so that you can create the (second) wedding of your dreams.

### Commit to the Plan <a id="2"> </a>  

First thing’s first: If you’ve decided to have a sequel wedding, you need to commit to it. If you’d originally planned on one wedding ceremony, you’re probably feeling apprehensive. Unless you’re close with other couples in your position, chances are that you don’t know anybody who’s had to overcome the unique hurdles you have, and will, face(d) for your wedding celebration. Understandably, this can be frustrating when you probably feel like you should be enjoying much of your [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) process. 

However, committing and being dedicated to your new plan will allow you to refocus and look to the future. Although you may be tempted to rush, we highly recommend setting aside time to find or create a sequel wedding option that you and your spouse are truly excited about. Whether you hire a wedding planner or do it all yourself, take some time to plan out your multiple ceremonies so that you logistically work out your dream wedding. Take the positives into accounts—such as more time to celebrate and more ways to personalize—and own the change in plans.

### Organize Your Budget

For those wanting to have a small legal ceremony followed by a larger celebration at a later date, your financial bottom line shouldn’t look much different than if you were to have a complete one-day event. If you decide to relocate your ceremony from a venue to the courthouse (or even your backyard), you might even come in under budget. However, if you’d prefer both weddings to be relatively the same, it’s easy to [go over](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-ways-cut-wedding-costs). To avoid the latter, keep the following budget tips top-of-mind throughout the planning.

- __Set a total budget for both events.__ From there, decide how much of it you want to go towards each part. These numbers may change as you set things in stone, but make it a goal to stay around the numbers you originally set.
- __Decide on your priorities for each event.__ This will help you decide exactly what money should go where (plus, it’ll make each event feel distinctive). For example, if a catered meal and open bar are a must for your sequel wedding, will you be okay with a more low-key meal after your smaller first wedding? List out your top wants for each event (including the cost of each, if you know it) and move things around until both meet your total budget.
- __Consider your guests’ budgets.__ Wanting both sets of parents to attend both events doesn’t mean that everyone will be able to afford a new outfit for each one (even if you can). The same could be said for transportation, hotel stays, and similar. Take your guests’ financial limitations into account when creating your budget and the itineraries for each day.

### Contact Your Vendors

As soon as you’re set on a sequel wedding and have an idea of your new budget, you’ll want to [reach out to your vendors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/guests-weddings-and-vaccines-what-you-need-to-know). Revisit your contracts with each of them and ask about their postponement policies if you’re unsure of anything. Once you’re clear on policies, refer to your top wants for each wedding and make a final decision on which you want at the first ceremony and which will better serve the latter. Do so as quickly as possible to ensure that your new date is available—remember, plenty of other couples are having to postpone or plan a second celebration, too. This is equally important if you’d like a vendor to be present at both.

### Create Separate Guest Lists

Deciding on your guest's lists could be as simple as keeping your original list for the second wedding and inviting only immediate family to the first. Perhaps there’ll be some more overlap and you’ll choose to also invite close friends to the smaller of the two. In any case, you need to be clear on who will be attending either. Start with the first event and reach out to parents, siblings, and friends who you’d like to have present. Make sure those guests are available, healthy, and comfortable with attending. Also keep in mind that your civil ceremony can involve just you, your significant other, and your children (if you have any). A great benefit of having two separate events is that you can make the former as intimate as you’d like, without excluding anybody in the end.

### Inform Your Guests <a id="3"> </a>  

Once you’ve finalized your vendors and both guest lists, next on your to-do list is to [update the guests of your new plans](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-update-guests-about-changes-to-your-wedding). Seeing as it’s a time of great uncertainty for most people, they’ll appreciate being kept in the know as often as possible. We suggest first using [your wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) to make immediate announcements to your general guests since updating is instant and keeps everyone as up-to-date as can be. 

As soon as you’re sure that your original wedding plans are canceled, post an announcement saying so and for your guests to stay tuned for more updates. From there you can reach out to each guest list separately, either to inform the more intimate list of the new, smaller plans or the larger list of the postponed celebration. For the latter, you can even send our [Change the Date cards](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/change-the-date/shop) or [Reception Only-style invites](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-reception-only-invitations) (in fact, we recommend it). If you’re choosing not to have a ceremony at your sequel wedding, opt for wording like:

*“__WE DID IT! First Last and First Last were married in a private ceremony in Location on Wedding Date. Please celebrate with us at our reception on June 10th, 2021 at 7 p.m. 123 Street Name City, State Please RSVP by October 19th__.”*

*“__First Last and First Last invite you to their wedding celebration party! Saturday, June 10th, 2021 at 7 p.m. 123 Street Name City, State Please respond by October 19th by mail or online__.”*

### Iron Out the Details

![How to Plan Your Sequel Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h92jsqpwj0uznRk3fEBJJ/d11a218c52d7b1bd8de70a62bee35126/inline_erika_brown_photography.jpg)
*Photo Credit * // Erika Brown Photography

All that’s left to do now is figure out the details—what you’re going to wear and how you’d like each celebration to be distinctive, but overall part of the same big wedding celebration. You could do the former by saying your heartfelt vows at the smaller ceremony and keeping your prequel wedding ceremony short to prioritize an epic party. On the other hand, you can do the latter by including photos and video from your minimum in your second wedding. We also love the idea of replacing the second round of vows with a speech about married life since your smaller wedding. In the end, it’s all about figuring out what’s important to you each day and making those things a priority.

While having to change your wedding plans can be stressful and a letdown, consider a sequel wedding the opportunity to have not one, but two very special days. Prioritizing everyone’s health and attendance is sure to be appreciated and will allow you to plan the wedding you always wanted—just a bit further into the future.

How to Plan Your Sequel Wedding

How to Get Married in Houston: Venue Ideas, Marriage License Tips, and More

Lots of questions come up when planning a wedding. Find answers to all of your wedding planning questions in these articles. From which vendors to tip to most common wedding etiquette questions to how to write thank-you cards, our experts guide you through.

The big question finally was asked and it was accompanied by a resounding “YES!” You posted that beautiful engagement ring picture on social media. You’re both basking in the glow of fiancee-dom, when the comments start coming in. And, we’re not talking about the “OMGs” or the congratulatory emojis. We’re talking about:

“So, are the kids invited?” “Can I bring this guy I met on Tinder? I think he’ll last!” “When’s the date? I want to make sure your third cousin Ali’s knee surgery doesn’t conflict.”

Almost as soon as you get engaged, friends and loved ones want to know if they’re invited to the wedding. But, before you start making that guest list, you’re going to have to decide how long that list is going to be. So, who gets a wedding invitation? What’s the average number of wedding guests? What’s the general percentage of wedding guests that decline? We'll help you decide how many wedding guests you should invite for your big day.

So, take a breath, put both of your notifications on mute, and let’s figure out how many people to invite to a wedding together.

## How many people should I invite to my wedding?

The [number of people you should invite](https://www.tiktok.com/@zola/video/7152141616998894890?is_from_webapp=1&web_id=7218624746436494894) to your wedding depends on a few factors: your budget, venue, and vibe. Generally, it’s best to split the guest list between both you and your partner. So, if you want to invite a total of 100 people to your wedding, plan on doing 50 invitations each.

## The average wedding size 2024
<a id="average"> </a>
The average wedding size in 2024 is around 145, according to [Zola's 2024 First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2024). This includes immediate and extended family, kids, and one or two tables of friends and their plus-ones. The average cost of a wedding, in case you’re wondering, sits between $20,000 - $40,000.

##  Average ratio of family:friends
<a id="ratio"> </a>
There's no hard and fast rule about the correct ratio of family to friends at a wedding. Smaller (or destination) weddings tend to have a higher proportion of family members, while larger weddings may include old friends and new. A lot depends on how big your families are, too!
Don’t worry too much if you have a lopsided wedding guest list. It’s pretty common and the main thing is that your wedding includes everyone special to you.

## What percentage of invited guests attend a wedding?
<a id="percentage"> </a>
Expert wedding planners estimate between 25-40 percent of guests invited to a wedding can’t make it. This means that if you invite 200 people, you can expect around 120-150 guests to attend your wedding. Keep in mind: factors like location, date, time, and budget can also affect attendance rates.

## Wedding size for different weddings
<a id="size"> </a>
There’s no one-size-fits-all for wedding guest numbers. The overall decision comes down to what you and your partner would feel most comfortable with according to your family traditions, budget, and relationship vibe. Not sure where your numbers fit in, in the big wide world of wedding sizes? Here’s some guidance. 

### The Elopement (4-10 guests). 
This is you, your partner, a few lucky witnesses (maybe your parents, siblings, or best friends), and the officiant. It’s romantic, memorable, and you’ll save money on stamps for the “Save the Dates.”

### Micro wedding (6-20 guests). 
Think of this option as the “Elopement Premium.” Your guest list will include you and your partner’s immediate families, plus a few extremely close friends. Most likely, you could fit your reception dinner at your favorite restaurant, or even in one of your family member’s large backyards.

### Small wedding (20-80 guests). 
The “Family Reunion” option means you’re expanding from the “Intimate” list to include your aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friend groups. However, your version of a family reunion might be the close friend groups from all aspects of your life. You might choose to invite your old Girl Scout troop, your high school AV club, and your book discussion group. Once you exceed 20 guests, a venue can offer you support and a bigger space to celebrate.

###  Average (100-200 guests). 
[Zola’s 2023 First Look report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2023) found that wedding guests in the U.S. range from 100 to 150 (31% of couples surveyed), and 150-200 (23%). This includes immediate and extended family, kids, and one or two tables of friends and their plus ones. 

### Large (200-500 guests). 
For a “Block Party Wedding” vibe, pretty much anyone who shares a last name with you or your soon-to-be spouse gets the invite (unless your last name is Jones or Smith. That’s a whole other ball game). 

You can also include friends, co-workers, college roommates, old teachers, neighbors, your parents’ friends, and the people who you see every day who don’t quite make the cut on typical guest lists. You do lose some of the intimacy with a large wedding. You might be so busy saying hello to everyone that you won’t get a chance to have more than a bite of your wedding cake. 

With that aside, this kind of wedding has a strong community atmosphere and gives your guests the freedom to mix and mingle with everyone from all parts of your lives.

### Massive (500-2,000 guests). 
While you might not be marrying royalty, you may want your wedding to feel like an entire town is celebrating with you. If you have the wedding budget and the ability to invite that many people, the answer to “How many people should I invite to my wedding” is pretty much infinite. Here’s who’s often left off a guest list.

- Your immediate family and extended family (includes third, fourth, and fifth cousins).
- Your co-workers from your last two previous jobs.
- Your college, high school, middle school, and elementary school teachers.
- Your parents’ best friends and their families.
- Your entire mosque, synagogue, or church.
- The doctor and nurses who delivered you into this world.
- The staff at your favorite coffee shop.
- Your entire apartment building or neighborhood.
- Random celebrities who may or may not show up (for the viral social media potential).

You get the picture.

## How to decide who to invite to your wedding
<a id="decision"> </a>
Start with the people you can’t imagine celebrating your wedding day without, like your closest relatives and family members. Or, you might start with your “found family,” the parents who raised you, and the people you’ve known your entire lives. Whatever “essential” means to both of you, start there.

Still wondering how many people you should invite to a wedding? Asking yourself the following questions may help you decide who gets an invite, and who's kept on the reserve list.

"Would I go out for dinner with this person, and would I pay for their meal?" Or, “Will I be excited to see this person at my wedding, or will I try to avoid them?”

If you're having a destination or [micro wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/micro-weddings) where numbers are tight, it's worth really honing in on who knows you and your other half. For example, if they can't answer three basic questions about your SO, they don't make the cut. If they can't tell you what city they’re from, their last name, or their job, they aren't considered potential guests. While this is a suggestion, it may not work for all wedding lists!

### Budget	
If sticking to a [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) is important to you both, then how much you’re willing to spend will determine the number of people you can invite. Consider invitation costs, too. As your guest list grows, so does the average cost of wedding invitations.

The most important piece of the budget when it comes to your guests is the food. Start by calculating the price of food per guest. According to Zola’s First Look Report 2024, [the average wedding costs over $30,000](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2024) and the average number of guests is 145. That equals around $200 per guest for the wedding. For catering specifically, it can vary widely from around $27pp for buffet style up to around $60+ for a catered, sit-down meal.

When you’re figuring the average number of guests at a wedding, keep in mind that budgets are very different across the U.S.!

If you’re imagining a wedding with a multi-course catered meal, this number will probably go up. If you’re imagining a fun buffet or food truck, the number will probably go down. Go from there and do the math to figure out if your wedding guests fit into your budget — and not the other way around.

Wedding Guest List Tip: The budget-first approach is a great way to get yourselves out of inviting cousins you’ve only met once, and coworkers you don’t really want there. However, if you don’t have a large budget, you both may have to make some tough calls on who gets a wedding invite and who doesn’t. At the end of the day, this is your day, your money, and your moment. Don’t feel guilty about not being able to invite everyone.

### Venue
Your hearts might be set on your favorite winery, the museum where you first met, or even a lochside castle in Scotland. If this sounds like you and your partner, then we’ve got good news. Thanks to your state’s (or local fief’s) fire marshal, your wedding venue has a set number of people allowed.

This lets you build your list within the venue’s parameters, and gives you an understandable reason to limit extra guests. “Sorry, Sal from accounting! My destination wedding venue is a historically accurate 18th-century Spanish galleon replica that only fits 30 people. You would not believe how much room the functional cannons take up on the deck!”

Expert Advice: If you need to squeeze in a third cousin or your mom’s new friend from Zumba class, ask the manager about the capacity. Sometimes the maximum number of guests the venue lists on their website is just their estimate for the best possible experience. If that’s the case with your venue, you could probably negotiate your guest count and add a couple of chairs.

Find your [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) on Zola.

### How many people to invite to wedding based on location
Keep in mind that the more difficult and/or expensive it is for guests to get to your wedding destination, the lower your attendance rate will likely be. There'll probably be a big difference in numbers between a wedding in your hometown compared to one in Mexico or the Bahamas, for example. 

### Wedding vibe 
The number of people you invite to your wedding will affect the overall vibe or atmosphere of your special day. Do you want to have a private wedding ceremony with only your nearest and dearest loved ones, or do you want a large wedding that feels like a city-wide carnival? Perhaps you’d like something in-between. 

Whatever ambiance you’re going for, we’ve broken down how the numbers will affect the atmosphere of your wedding, and created our own categories.

## How to limit guests on wedding invitations

![0708 how-many-people-to-invite-to-a-wedding inline](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3SKfL0dAyrfpOyeaudvhxn/84be3a64220ff5b634a396a28ac3518e/0708_how-many-people-to-invite-to-a-wedding_inline.jpg)

<a id="invitations"> </a>
Limiting guests on wedding invitations can be tricky, especially if you want to avoid hurting any feelings. Be clear and specific about who's invited by addressing the invitation envelope to only the guests invited, or by personalizing the RSVP card by writing the number of seats reserved for them.

[Shop premium quality, perfectly priced wedding invitations.](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)

### Plus-one etiquette 
Deciding whether or not to allow plus-ones can help you curate your wedding guest list number. However, be wary of the “no ring, no bring” rule. That rule might’ve worked for our parents, but more and more often, serious couples decide to wait a while before putting a ring on it.

### Questions to ask yourself when making the list 

Once you’ve learned a little bit more about the kind of wedding you and your partner want, you’ll have a strong start on creating your guest list and deciding how many guests to invite to your wedding. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you decide who you want to attend your wedding. 

- Who would you enjoy seeing outside of your wedding day?
- Will you still be in touch with this person in five years?
- Do you get their Christmas cards?
- Are you in consistent contact?

If the answers to all of these questions are yes, then the rule of thumb for wedding guest lists is that you invite them to your big day. If these potential guests aren’t blood-related, and you haven’t seen them since their wedding, things get a little more flexible. Just talk with your partner, and go with your gut.

To B-List or Not to B-List?

A B-list is the list of people who didn’t quite make the wedding guest cut, but you wish they could be there. They don’t get “Save the Dates,” and they don’t get the first round of invites. B-Listers are the ones you call when someone on the A-list is unable to attend. That doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re not A-listers in your heart, but venues, budgets, and families put limitations on every wedding.

### What to say if someone questions your guest list

In an ideal world, everyone will be happy and accepting of your wedding guest list. But, in the real world, there’s a fair to reasonable chance that at least one person might not be totally supportive of your choices. If/when that happens, these useful phrases can help to keep the peace.

- “We appreciate your interest in our wedding, but we've decided to keep our guest list limited to our closest family and friends. We hope you understand and respect our decision.”
- "We could only have XX guests, so we invited those we are closest to."
- "Our venue has a very small capacity limit, which means we've had to be extra careful with our guestlist.”
- While large weddings tend to be more common than smaller ones, this is a useful script to follow if you’re having a smaller event: “We're happy that you're excited for our wedding, but we have a strict guest list setup that we’ve agreed on with our families. We're following certain traditions and customs that limit the number of guests we can invite. We hope you can respect our culture and our choices."

As one last tidbit of advice, remember this: The more guests you invite, the bigger your registry can be. Wink, wink.

Use Zola’s *free* [Guest List and RSVP Tracking Tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) to help make the logistics a breeze.

Graphic of four people standing in a line celebrating

How Many People Should I Invite to My Wedding?

Being a bridesmaid means agreeing to a fairly long list of responsibilities. As a part of the the Bride Tribe, a bridesmaid is expected to plan and attend all pre-wedding parties, help out with aspects of the wedding planning as needed, and be totally present and available to the bride on the wedding weekend. We’ve divided the list of bridesmaid duties into tasks that occur before the wedding and then actually on the big day. Every friend, sibling, or relative who’s asked to be a bridesmaid should have no trouble fulfilling her role if she follows these guidelines.

Pre-Wedding Bridesmaid Duties
1. <a href="#Shop"> Shop (and Pay) for Bridesmaid Attire </a>
2. <a href="#BridalShower"> Help Plan (and Pay) for the Bridal Shower </a>
3. <a href="#BachParty">Help Plan (and Pay) for the Bachelorette Party </a>
4. <a ahref="#Attend"> Attend Any Other Pre-Wedding Events </a>
5. <a href="#Book"> Book Travel & Hotel Reservations </a>
6. <a href="#Rehearsal"> Attend the Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner </a>
7. <a href="#Support"> Help Support the Bride Emotionally </a>
8. <a href="#WeddingPlanning"> Help With Wedding Planning Tasks </a>
9. <a href="#Buy"> Buy a Wedding Present </a>

Wedding Day Bridesmaids Duties
1.<a href="#Ready"> Get Ready With the Bride </a>
2. <a href="#Assist"> Assist the MOH </a>
3. <a href="#Provide"> Provide Getting-Ready Snacks </a>
4. <a href="#BrideTribe"> Be the “Bride Tribe” </a>
5. <a href="#Participate"> Participate in the Ceremony </a>
6. <a href="#PhotoReady"> Be Photo-Ready </a>
7. <a href="#ModelGuests"> Be Model Guests (and the Life of The Party) </a>
8. <a href="#Maintain"> Maintain a Stress-Free Send-off </a> 

## Pre-Wedding Bridesmaid Duties
These are the main duties that bridesmaids are typically expected to perform in the months and weeks leading up to the wedding:

### 1. Shop (and Pay) for Bridesmaid Attire
<a id="Shop"></a>

Bridesmaids may be asked to visit a bridal shop as a group to try on and select dresses together, or each woman may be asked do her own shopping and simply send her measurements and dress pick to the bride (or to a chosen shop). If the [bridal party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-is-a-wedding-party-and-do-you-need-one) isn’t wearing matching attire, the bride may simply ask that each bridesmaid select her own outfit and share a photo to make sure it coordinates. Here are some additional tips when it comes to shopping for bridesmaid attire: 
- Whether shopping together or individually, follow the bride’s wishes with a smile on your face.
- Be on time with your presence, your information, and/or decisions. 
- Provide supportive and sensitive feedback on the choice of bridesmaid attire *__only when requested__*. 
- Be prepared to pay for your own bridesmaid dress, jewelry, and shoes. 

### 2. Help Plan (and Pay for) the Bridal Shower 
<a id="BridalShower"></a>

The bridal shower may be a shared responsibility among the bridesmaids, the maid of honor, or the parent(s) of the bride or groom—however, bridesmaids are expected to at the very least attend the shower, and if there are no other hosts that step forward, to help the MOH with the [shower planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-bridal-shower) and execution.  

### 3. Help Plan (and Pay for) the Bachelorette Party
<a id="BachParty"></a>
While the bulk of the bachelorette party planning usually falls to the maid of honor, the rest of the bridesmaids should lend her a hand wherever possible. This might include helping to secure travel plans, accommodations, activities, and transportation, as well as divvying up the costs between each bridesmaid so the bride’s expenses are covered.

### 4. Attend Any Other Pre-Wedding Events
<a id="Attend"></a>

Whether it’s an engagement party, a couples’ shower, or a gathering of helpers to do some wedding DIY over beers and pizza, bridesmaids are expected to attend all pre-wedding activities to the best of their abilities. 

### 5. Book Travel and Hotel Reservations 
<a id="Book"></a>

Bridesmaids should take care of their own transportation and accommodations for the wedding weekend. It’s a good idea to do this early on, so you can be sure your travel logistics are convenient to both the schedule and location of important events. Whenever transportation is not already provided, the bridesmaids should figure out how they’ll get from place to place during the festivities.

### 6. Attend the Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner
<a id="Rehearsal"></a>

Bridesmaids should be present at both the ceremony rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner. Not only is this a practical concern—everyone involved in the ceremony needs to know where to assemble, enter, exit, and where to sit or stand during the service—but as a member of the bride’s support crew, she’ll need you there during these final moments of preparation before the big day. 

### 7. Help Support the Bride Emotionally
<a id="Support"></a>

As her best friends, siblings, relatives, and just generally the people she wants surrounding her on this huge life decision, bridesmaids carry the role of being the bride’s emotional rock. Wedding planning can come with its fair amount of stress, so bridesmaids should check in with her throughout the process, ask what she needs, and do their best to thoughtfully and sensitively support her feelings. 

### 8. Help With Wedding Planning Tasks
<a id="WeddingPlanning"></a>

While bridesmaids are not wedding coordinators, florists, caterers, or cake bakers, they might be asked to help with certain smaller wedding planning tasks within reason. Activities such as stuffing envelopes, alphabetizing escort cards, getting hands-on with some easy DIY projects, or even making trips with the bride to pick out rentals or attend her hair and makeup trial are tasks where the bridesmaids can lend a hand.

### 9. Buy a Wedding Present
<a id="Buy"></a>

As with any other wedding guest, bridesmaids should buy a wedding gift for the couple off of their [Wedding Registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) and have it shipped to their address before the wedding. The only time this expectation may be removed is if you’re serving as a bridesmaid at a destination wedding and your presence (i.e. travel expenses) are considered gift enough. Going in on a big-ticket [group gift](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) with all of the bridesmaids can be a fun way to give the couple somthing they really want!  

## Wedding Day Bridesmaid Duties
On the big day, bridesmaids help ensure everything goes smoothly for the bride, her maid of honor, and the majority of the wedding guests. Here’s how: 

### 1. Get Ready With the Bride
<a id="Ready"></a>

Bridesmaids should plan on showing up at the designated getting-ready location on time, with all of their gear (bridesmaid attire, shoes, jewelry, makeup, undergarments, etc.) in hand. Besides getting themselves aisle-ready, the bridesmaids should do whatever they can to assist the bride during this time, such as: 
- Keeping her smiling, laughing, calm, and collected
- Answering any incoming texts, calls, or logistical questions for her 
- Making sure she eats something and stays hydrated 
- Pouring celebratory bubbly for everyone to enjoy 
- Keeping hair and/or makeup appointments on track 
- Helping her into her dress
- Assisting her with her shoes, jewelry, or veil

### 2. Assist the MOH
<a id="Assist"></a>

The maid of honor has a pretty big job on the wedding day. Bridesmaids should serve as her right-hand ladies, helping out with whatever tasks are needed—whether that’s making a last-minute run to the drugstore, coordinating with the photographer or wedding planner, or providing (and keeping track of) a wedding day emergency kit.  

### 3. Provide Getting-Ready Snacks
<a id="Provide"></a>

If no other arrangements have been made for getting-ready sips and snacks, the bridesmaids should take it upon themselves to provide these treats. Everyone—from the bride to her mother to even the photographer and beauty stylists—will appreciate the gesture and benefit from some food and drink throughout the busy day.

### 4. Be the “Bride Tribe”
<a id="BrideTribe"></a>

Bridesmaids should embody the concept of being the support crew for the bride and the maid of honor in all ways during the big day. They can also serve as a point of contact for guests and vendors when it’s helpful. Here are some tasks the bridesmaids can cover to be of service:
- Double-check that all members of the wedding party and any special family members have their personal flowers (bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, flower crowns, or toss petals). Assist with pinning on boutonnieres or other floral accessories as needed.
- Help guests navigate the venue, such as directing them to parking areas, bathrooms, handicap access, exits, and if applicable, the bar or refreshments station.
- Standing near the gift table, guest book, or wedding favors to help direct and facilitate guests’ participation. 

### 5. Participate in the Ceremony
<a id="Participate"></a>

Bridesmaids should be in place at the ceremony venue on time, (most likely hidden out of sight), and ready for their cues to process down the aisle. Keep chatter to a minimum and be respectful of the planner, officiant, or whomever is running the show. During the actual ceremony, be sure to hit your rehearsed mark, fulfill any other roles you’ve been assigned during the actual service, and then process out of the ceremony according to plan. 

### 6. Be Photo-Ready
<a id="PhotoReady"></a>

If the wedding party didn’t pose for photographs with the happy couple before the ceremony, typically these group photos occur right after the ceremony at the beginning of the cocktail hour. Rather than dispersing into the crowd, bridesmaids should stick together and be ready to follow the photographer’s commands—gathering stray folks for these shots can be tiresome, not to mention steal precious minutes away from the couple’s ability to enjoy their cocktail hour.  

### 7. Be Model Guests (and the Life of The Party)
<a id="ModelGuests"></a>

Bridesmaids should mingle and chat with other guests, enjoy the food and drinks offered, sit down at their dinner table when asked, participate in guest-related activities like signing the guestbook or visiting the photo booth, listen to, applaud, and/or give any speeches (that have been pre-arranged), witness the special dances, and boogie down (tastefully) when it’s dance floor time.

### 8. Maintain a Stress-Free Send-off
<a id="Maintain"></a>

Finally, bridesmaids should help the maid of honor, coordinator, or the couple’s parents assemble any items than need to be transported out of the reception venue at the end of the night. These packables might include: 
- Any getting-ready clothing or gear 
- Extra/unused ceremony programs, favors, or sparklers 
- Leftover alcohol 
- Any decor or signage that was personally provided (not rented) 
- The bride and/or bridesmaids’ bouquets
- Wedding cards and gifts
- The guest book
- Special toasting flutes, cake servers, or cake plate
- A basket of late-night leftovers (packaged by the caterer)
- The top tier of the wedding cake
- A few slices of late-night wedding cake (packaged by the caterer)
- The bride and/or groom’s wedding attire, if they’ve changed into getaway clothes

In addition to making sure the above items leave the venue in the right vehicle(s), bridesmaids can lend a hand with these final logistical tasks:  
- Make sure all guests make it onto the right shuttle buses, find their cars, or otherwise make it safely out of the venue.
- Hand out pre-addressed tip envelopes to the vendors.
- Make sure the bride and/or groom’s overnight bags make it to their wedding night hotel room. 
- Organize guests to the after-party, if there is one. 


Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet

How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide

formal portrait of wedding party. Bride and bride maids with bouquet are sitting on stair in the front , Groom and groom men are standing at the back

Bridal Party vs. Wedding Party: What's the Difference? 

indian couple gets married with wedding party

How Many People Should Be In Our Wedding Party?

The Bridesmaid Duties: A Full Breakdown

Periods have a way of sometimes arriving at the least desirable times in life. Whether it’s on vacation or during a stressful week at work, it’s likely your period has been an unwelcome visitor more than once. For those who experience cramps, bloating, and headaches during their period (thanks PMS), menstruation can be an even more inconvenient and uncomfortable experience. 

So what happens when you realize your period may crash your wedding? Before you freak out, know there are many ways to deal with a wedding period. 

![INLINE WeddingsByThom 1080x720 Becky&Jacob](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6K4YZIUPpzN8MwQnpkjXjA/655c44882a5c165afca4a230e742e2ad/INLINE_WeddingsByThom_1080x720_Becky_Jacob.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Weddings By Thom

## Alter your cycle… if you can.
Some people’s periods are consistently regular and on time. If you’re one of those lucky folks, you might want to consult your period tracking app when choosing a wedding date if avoiding your period is important to you. Of course, not everyone has this option (venues have limited availability, after all) and periods can, unfortunately, have a mind of their own. 

If you’re prone to sickness on your period or low mood, however, you might feel best avoiding those undesired symptoms altogether. If this is the case, you can talk to your doctor about manipulating your cycle to skip your period for your wedding.

Hormonal birth control pill packs can be used back-to-back without placebos to skip a period. Likewise, certain birth control pills extend your menstrual cycle, meaning you only get your period once every three months. 

*__Note: While it’s [generally considered safe to skip or suppress a period](https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/travel-health/how-can-i-delay-my-period/), it’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider first. Everybody is different, and it’s important to figure out what is best for you.__* 

### Expect something anyway.
Even though the pill can help manage the timing of your period, manipulating your cycle isn’t a fool-proof plan; periods can still be irregular, especially if you’re stressed. (Here’s some tips on [how to combat wedding-related stress](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-handle-overbearing-parents-when-wedding-planning).) 

What’s more, you may still experience [breakthrough bleeding](https://patient.info/news-and-features/how-to-prevent-breakthrough-bleeding-on-the-pill) even if you skip your period. To be safe, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for menses if you expect it to overlap with your wedding. 

## Plan ahead and be prepared.
If you know your period will arrive around the time of your wedding, be sure to alter some lifestyle practices ahead of time. Sugar and caffeine can [exacerbate PMS symptoms](https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome), while exercise, healthy eating, and [sleep are known to help](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/sleep-night-before-wedding). If you’re worried about stomach cramping and bloating, try to drink lots of water and avoid salt-heavy drinks and food.

### Day-Of Prep
On your wedding day, take some over-the-counter pain medication in the morning and throughout the day as needed. If you can’t avoid your period you’ll want to minimize its presence. When it comes to your wedding attire, consider how heavy your period will be and decide on the most suitable preparation for where you are in your cycle.

- __Choose the right product.__ Depending on the [style of your dress and undergarments,](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what's-your-wedding-dress-style) tampons or a menstrual cup may be your best bet. While pads are great for overnight use, they may create pad lines and limit your underwear options. Menstrual cups, like the DivaCup, can be worn up to 12 hours, depending on how heavy your flow is. A product that allows for longer use means fewer trips to the bathroom. 
- __Consider special underwear.__ If you want to be extra cautious around leakage, period-absorbing underwear is also a great idea. Brands like Thinx or Knix have different styles depending on your flow, including designs for super, moderate and light days. Some even absorb four regular tampons worth of blood. Period panties also come in different materials and cuts, meaning you can often find a pair right for your dress. 
- __Stock the venue.__ Lastly, make sure there are menstrual products available at your ceremony and reception venues. You can even get venue staff to stock bathroom welcome baskets with tampons and pads for yourself and other guests. Chances are you won’t be the only one dealing with Aunt Flo.

![INLINE CortiellaPhotography 1080x720 Choumate&Berthony (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Mvdo1pBF2gj994HbfJUVB/218f63fc5885863e7b90d5cd9d4a89db/INLINE_CortiellaPhotography_1080x720_Choumate_Berthony__1_.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Cortiella Photography

## Lean on your wedding party. 
Using the bathroom in an elaborate dress is hard enough, but add a period into the mix and you may need some assistance. 

Inform your [maid of honor or wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-many-people-in-wedding-party) about your period, and let them know you’ll need their help during the day. You might even want to pass off some ibuprofen to them for safekeeping. Ask them to hold some menstrual products for you, if need be, and get them to keep an eye on your dress. While it’s unlikely you’ll have an accident, it’s always comforting knowing someone has your back just in case. 

## Don’t stress too much.
Periods can be annoying, there’s no doubting that. But having your time of the month coincide with your big day isn’t the end of the world. It’s important to remember that you’ve lived through your period many times before, and you’ll get through it again, too. 

With a bit of preparation and some help from trusted friends, your period doesn’t need to play a big role in your wedding. Because between dancing, amazing food and marrying the love of your life, you’ll have plenty of other things to think about. 

bride wearing long-sleeve lace dress sitting on a settee in the middle of a garden with a basket of cut purple lavender beside her

What’s Your Wedding Dress Style? 

Period Coming On Your Wedding Day? Here's What to Do

Choosing your wedding month and date is a crucial first step in the wedding planning process, along with choosing your venue, photographer, and caterer. The time of year in which you decide to get married will dictate a lot of your subsequent planning, and will stick with you for the rest of your life (hello, anniversary). 

## What is the Best Month for a Wedding? 
June, September, and October are considered the best months for a wedding. June, traditionally, is the most popular month to get married, simply because of the mild weather. With that being said, there’s no wrong time to get married to the love of your life (though it does help to have good weather). 

In most parts of the country, the late spring through early fall months are typically thought of as “wedding season,” but there is so much more to it than that. Let’s walk through the year and look at the pros and cons of each potential wedding month.

__Note__: Keep in mind that while season matters greatly, geography is a factor as well. We have broken the seasons down very generally below, but even still, a winter wedding in the Florida Keys is going to differ drastically from a winter wedding in Lake Tahoe, where the cold weather and snow hazards will be much greater. Be sure to factor in your location when picking your perfect wedding month.

## Spring
. . . . . . . . . . .

### March, April, May

March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb. April showers bring May flowers. These are the traditional sayings that correlate with the spring months that we love so dearly. Emerging from the cold of winter, spring is such a welcoming time to host your special day. Without many calendar conflicts (St. Patrick’s Day, Passover, and Easter are the only holidays in the spring), your spring wedding should see good attendance. And after the drab, loneliness of winter, your friends will probably be busting at the seams to get out and celebrate with you.

A spring wedding is a gamble, though, simply because the weather is so unpredictable. Will it be sunny and warm, or is a cold snap going to hit? Even still, the gamble may pay off if you can land one of those quintessential warm, flowery days. In April and May especially, you might begin to encounter increased pricing and competition with other brides for vendors and venues as “the season” set in. We’re talking: wedding season.

![Colin-Lyons-Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2I7G4mApUnMjJhsy5Jl3Jb/53209c242d51920fe468dad7d825d8b5/Colin-Lyons-Photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Colin Lyons Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![3-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6WNr5JisBMZ85xd2TKSIx6/26fa70d21a47bf3e8a8bbeac435e580e/3-2.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Pauline Conway Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![4-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ce7yS6d2k8yuYhLUbjG8E/217f24116aade587a4e43197819ae810/4-2.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Sarah and Rachel](https://www.zola.com/wedding/rachel-sarah/passcode)*

![onelove-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rQO7D0nqBl2thPIDEUwJI/d9002976a70f8e78cac3f7dccbb45608/onelove-photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [onelove photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![michelle-jones-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/10IZeVW4q8jsvuaGNrULY5/9685001b60b7696da5b0ac7519f145b6/michelle-jones-photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Michelle Jones Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

## Summer
. . . . . . . . . .

### June, July, August

Wedding season is in full swing by mid-May, with June being traditionally the most popular wedding month. These hot months offer long days and vacation time. Many of your wedding guests will be able to get away from their lives to attend your ceremony thanks to more relaxed work schedules and school breaks. Far removed from the winter holidays, your guests are more likely to have a little extra room in their budgets for travel and wedding gifts. With an abundance of flowers and fruits in season, a summer wedding allows for countless floral options and your pick of delicious produce.

However, these sunny wedding months are not quite that simple. Rising temps is definitely something to take into account, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony. While it may look like a glorious day outside, if it is 100 degrees, you are going to be one sweaty bride with a bunch of hot and sticky guests. You can also just go ahead and count on venues and vendors being harder to book with steeper prices because of peak wedding season competition. Finally, vacation plans or other weddings may conflict with yours when it comes to your guests’ attendance.

![sera-petras-photography-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5DBqt424TW6fxVupMcRREr/5f5b701c3ede984b76c8dd45ac9c3556/sera-petras-photography-1.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Sera Petras Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![10-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6oleAP7FuSKWiW8aoRT2ET/b09b179296b24f279d3f06e188c36c6f/10-1.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [JoPhoto](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![loved-memories-photography-videography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/64qkXcXELxt7XXEexvpXQi/b853e7f659bd6df81cfe3a16b8ba1407/loved-memories-photography-videography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Loved Memories Photography & Videography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![11-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4RiU2cVAawt6etn6imcVC5/828072c76d7d37b0a191dc16c3872137/11-1.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Limelight Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

## Fall
. . . . . . . . . .

### September, October, November
Oh [fall weddings](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/fall), how loved you are! There is something so magical about the changing of the leaves and the cool, crisp air. A fall wedding month will make for cooler temperatures, happier party guests, and less bugs. And with a plethora of pumpkins, there are some very festive and unique [wedding themes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-themes) to embrace.

In these autumn wedding months, possible conflicts include the beginning of a new school year, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. There are also fewer flowers in season, so you may have to be willing to re-imagine your ideal floral arrangements. And if you and your partner are football fanatics, a fall wedding month might prove difficult to schedule around big game days. What if you accidentally plan your wedding for the most important match-up of the season?

![FALL-PIC-Nick-Davis-Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ubu6ZBziGjm2B4BORdyNT/33e2bb528d1b74ef66a630b03c36d93a/FALL-PIC-Nick-Davis-Photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Nick Davis Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![13-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3OtiKcANlOnPkYcCgvJY2a/460d2859aacdf429a5caabcf5687bd84/13-1.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [JoPhoto](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![B.-Dembowski-Images](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/w1pEtfzf7XNQuVPoJOBA2/d6785ab23a16cc84309dc10b2f8b51d7/B.-Dembowski-Images.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [B. Dembowski Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![suzanne-karp-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2IotEvPwRzyD4wYnZWWhO8/21bd6d5c7ac111d854c0c5618f77eb0e/suzanne-karp-photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Suzanne Karp Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![megan-rolfe-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KAeFqKNiAbKOGmoReYPDQ/e34989f661e509b236290e43d8a5b13c/megan-rolfe-photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Meghan Rolfe Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

## Winter
. . . . . . . . . . .

### December, January, February
A winter wedding month can be a hidden gem. Gleaming fireplaces, evergreen trees, snowy winter landscapes, less wedding competition (and thus the ability to negotiate prices), and more vendor/venue availability make a winter wedding very appealing for couples. There is something so romantic about wrapping up in warm blankets in front of an early sunset and clinging to each other for warmth.

But for all of the pros, there are still some cons to a winter soirée. Depending on the location of your wedding, getting snowed in (or out) could be a factor for outdoor wedding venues. There is less green outside, making for less picturesque landscapes that might force your wedding photos indoors. And… Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Years. While these holidays are considered “the most wonderful time of the year,” they can create many conflicts for your special day. Traveling can be more expensive and difficult around the holidays, not to mention that money will most likely be a bit tighter for people, too.

![17](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/11hvWyN8wxfj6ZSYiyT8SL/e594d0a49432a4f45d859a59669dfde2/17.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Jennings King Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![dana-widman-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Kfdg6c8V9TlcOYdyDoXsP/62a288f8b3e8717982a365552cc9d4fb/dana-widman-photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Dana Widman Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![Beautiful Winter Wedding Color Schemes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2SGRFCSNwbm3TXmugQhtKy/0a47af24d0d7885c9f6253a72841fec5/inline_felicia_marti_photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Felicia Marti Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

![modern-wedding-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2DwNzksI7fCOhWBtJSWKoF/3b5ceefc704779234c84cfdf48f2adab/modern-wedding-photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Modern Wedding Photography](https://www.modernweddingphotography.tv/)*

![Heather-Erson-Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6jT8kMSgL2JTQBo0EYrJAb/f13fb701d13b59411bf937be04ceaadb/Heather-Erson-Photography.jpg)

*Photo Credit || [Heather Erson Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search)*

Have you fallen in love with your perfect wedding month yet? Once you make a decision, be sure to put the date into your [Zola Weddings Checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) so you can get a whole bunch (or just a few) customized planning reminders up until the big day. Happy planning!


woman and man just after getting engaged in front of a sunset in a green field about to kiss

The First 10 Things to Do When Planning a Wedding

2024/25 Printable Wedding Planning Checklist & Timeline - Zola

Asian family with bride and groom looking down at a paper and smiling

Who Pays For The Wedding? Everything You Need To Know

10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue

woman using zola for wedding planning stress

5 Effective Ways to Fight Wedding Planning Stress

Zola invitation suite and save the date on marble countertop

How to Make a Wedding Guest List

Zola wedding website as seen on a laptop computer

How to Create Your Wedding Website: 10 Simple Steps 

# **Who to Tip at a Wedding and How Much**

Wedding vendor tips can add up fast when you're already spending thousands on your big day. The good news is that tipping isn't as complicated as it might seem, and your wedding team will genuinely appreciate any gesture of gratitude you can manage.

Understanding when and how much to tip helps you budget properly and shows appreciation for the people working hard to make your day perfect. From your photographer to your caterer, each vendor has different expectations based on their industry and role in your celebration.

## **Should You Tip Your Wedding Vendors?**

Yes, tipping wedding vendors is expected and appreciated, but it's not always required. Think of it like tipping at a restaurant or salon - it's your way of saying "thank you" for great service. Some vendors, like hair and makeup artists, definitely expect tips because that's how their industry works. Others see it as a nice bonus for going above and beyond.

Here's what you need to know upfront: couples usually set aside about 5-10% of their total[ wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) for the “extras”, according to the Zola Wedding Cost Index (ZWCI), which include tips & gratuities. That might sound like a lot when you're already spending thousands on each vendor. But your wedding team works incredibly hard to make your day perfect, and showing appreciation makes a difference.

This guide walks you through who gets what and when to give it, so you are not scrambling with envelopes on your wedding day.

## **Average Wedding Tipping Guide**

While traditional etiquette dictates tipping guidelines for everyone from your coat check attendant to your delivery drivers, we wanted to know what couples are _actually_ doing for their largest investments.

In Zola’s 2026 Wedding Spend Survey, we asked over 700 newlywed couples exactly how they handled gratuity for their core vendor team. Here is what they shared:

| **Vendor** | **% of Couples Who Tip** | **Most Common Tip Method** | **Most Common Tip Range** |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| **Caterer** | 73% | Percentage-based (87%) | 16% – 20% |
| **Hair & makeup** | 71% | Percentage-based (90%) | 16% – 20% |
| **Photographer** | 70% | Percentage-based (77%) | 1% – 5% |
| **DJ / Band** | 67% | Percentage-based (75%) | 1% – 5% |
| **Wedding planner** | 48% | Percentage-Based (83%) | 1% – 5% |

\*According to Zola’s 2026 Wedding Spend Survey

**The flat-rate cash alternative** 

While the chart above shows that percentage-based tipping is the most popular method, doing the math on a multi-thousand-dollar invoice can be stressful. If you prefer to hand out flat-rate cash tips instead of calculating percentages, you are in good company!

For couples who skip the math and give a flat dollar amount, here are the average cash tips handed out to that same core vendor team:

* **Average caterer tip:** $262
* **Average photographer tip:** $200
* **Average DJ / band tip:** $200
* **Average wedding planner tip:** $200
* **Average hair & makeup artist tip:** $150

**Quick wedding tipping guide for your full vendor team** 

Of course, your caterers and photographers are just one part of your celebration. To keep your planning stress-free, here is a quick cheat sheet for tipping your full wedding day team:

* **Hair and makeup artists:** 16-20% of total service cost
* **Catering and bar staff:** 16-20% of the food and drink bill, if gratuity is not already included
* **DJ or band members:** 1-5% of the service cost, or $200
* **Live band members:** 1-5% of the service cost, or $25-50 each
* **Drivers and transportation:** 15-20% of total cost
* **Photographer and videographer:** 1-5% of total service cost
* **Wedding planner or coordinator:** 1-5% of fee or $200
* **Officiant:** $50-100 or donation to their organization
* **Florist:** $50-100
* **Delivery and setup teams:** $5-20 per person

Remember, these are guidelines, not rules. Your budget, the service quality, and what's normal in your area all matter. The most important thing is that your tip feels right to you.

## **What If Gratuity Is Already Included?**

Before you start doing tip math, grab all your vendor contracts and look for the word "gratuity." This is super important because many vendors already include tips in their pricing, and you don't want to pay twice.

Be aware that "service charges" and "gratuity" are not the same thing. A service charge usually goes to the business for overhead costs. Gratuity goes directly to the people serving you.

Look for these exact phrases in your contracts:

* **"Gratuity included"**
* **"Staff gratuity"**
* **"Tips distributed to service team"**

If you see vague language like "service charge" or "administrative fee," ask directly. Say something like: "I see there's an 18% service charge. Does this go to your staff as tips, or should I plan to tip separately?"

Vendors who commonly include gratuity are catering companies, transportation services, and all-inclusive venues. Hotel services for room blocks often bundle tips for bellhops and housekeeping too.

Even when tips are included, you can still add extra for amazing service. Just make sure you know what's already covered first.

## **Detailed Tipping Guide by Vendor**

Every vendor plays a role in making your wedding amazing, but tipping expectations vary a lot between different types of professionals. Let's break down what's normal for each one.

### **Wedding photographer and videographer**

Your photo and video team doesn't usually expect tips, but they definitely appreciate them. A common range, according to Zola’s 2026 Wedding Spend Survey is 1-5% the service cost, or about $200 per person if opting for a flat rate, depending on how happy you are with their work.

Business owners typically don't expect tips as much as their employees do. But if your [photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/should-you-tip-wedding-photographers) or videographer owns their company and did incredible work, a tip is still a nice gesture. Don't forget about second shooters, assistants, and anyone else on their team. $50-75 each is thoughtful.

The best time to tip your photo team is right after your reception ends or when you get your final photos back. Include a note about what you loved most about working with them.

> “As a photographer, I don't expect any tips. We charge enough to run our business smoothly. If a couple decides to tip us—we greatly appreciate it.” - Vital Wilsh, Zola Photographer

### **Hair and makeup artists**

Beauty professionals work just like salon staff, so 16-20% tips are standard, according to our survey data. This applies to each person working on you—your[ hair stylist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-do-you-tip-your-hairdresser-for-your-wedding), makeup artist, and anyone helping your wedding party. With beauty services running about $982 on average according to the ZWCI, budget around $150-200 total for your beauty team tips.

Don't forget about your trial run. That appointment takes just as much time and skill as your wedding day, so tip then too. Some artists charge travel fees to come to your location, but those fees aren't tips - they're covering gas and time.

Hand over beauty tips right when they finish your look. Cash in an envelope with their name works best.

### **DJ, band, and musicians**

Music tips depend on how your entertainment is set up. Our survey data shows that the majority of couples tip a percentage-base of 1-5%, or $200 if choosing a flat dollar amount. However, keep in mind that individual band members should get at least $25-50 each. Ceremony musicians like string quartets or acoustic guitarists typically get $25-50 per person too.

If your DJ also serves as your master of ceremonies, making announcements and keeping the timeline moving, consider tipping a bit more. 

Wait until the end of their performance to tip. This is usually when the dancing winds down or their contract time is up.

### **Catering and bar staff**

This is where you really need to check if gratuity is included first. Many caterers automatically add 18-20% gratuity to your bill. If it's not included, our Wedding Spend Survey shows that the majority of couples opt to tip 16% - 20% of the total bill, while the average flat rate is $262. This covers total catering gratuities, split amongst staff. If you’re looking to give each worker a separate amount, here's how to break it down:

* **Head caterer or captain:** $100-200
* **Chef:** $50-100
* **Servers:** $20-50 each
* **Bartenders:** $20-50 each
* **Bussers and kitchen staff:** $10-30 each

Some venues pool all tips and split them evenly among the whole team. Ask about their policy when you're finalizing details. 

Give catering tips to the head caterer before service starts. This motivates great service throughout your whole event, though you could opt-in for the end of night, if preferred.

### **Wedding planner and coordinator**

Wedding planners are the least commonly tipped vendors, despite handling the bulk of the wedding logistics. According to our survey, nearly half (48%) of couples do not tip them at all. However, most couples who do tip, opt for 1-5% of their total fee. If choosing a flat rate, $200 is the average.

Planners who own their businesses don't expect tips as much, but they still love the gesture. You could also give a thoughtful gift, write a detailed thank-you note, or leave them a glowing online review.

If choosing to tip your wedding planner, share it with them at the end of your reception. 

### **Officiant**

Religious officiants like priests, rabbis, or ministers traditionally get donations to their house of worship instead of personal tips. Donate $50-100 to their church, synagogue, or religious organization.

Professional officiants who aren't religious should get $50-100 directly. Friends or family members who got ordained online to marry you typically get a meaningful gift instead of cash.

Professional officiant tips can wait until your reception or be included with final payment. Some religious donations are expected when locking in your wedding date, though they can also be provided after your ceremony ends.

### **Florist**

Tipping your florist is a nice way to show appreciation for their beautiful work or complicated installations and $50-100 is a nice way do so. Since flowers average $6,345 according to the Zola Wedding Cost Index, this represents less than 2% of your floral investment.

If your florist uses a separate[ delivery team](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/do-you-tip-wedding-delivery-staff), those crew members should get $10-20 each when they arrive at your venue. Tip your main florist when they finish setting up, usually the morning of your wedding.

### **Transportation and drivers**

Transportation tipping follows the same 15-20% rule as restaurants, unless it's already included in your contract. For multiple trips or shuttle services with several drivers, tip each driver individually rather than giving one lump sum.

Parking valets get $1-2 per car if you're providing valet service for your guests. In expensive cities like San Francisco, California, transportation costs significantly more than affordable areas like Salt Lake City, Utah, so adjust your tip amounts accordingly.

Hand out transportation tips when the service ends. This is typically after your reception is over and the last guests have been shuttled home.

### **Venue and delivery staff**

Don't forget about the behind-the-scenes people who make your day run smoothly:

* **Coat check attendants:** $1-2 per guest who uses the service
* **Restroom attendants:** $0.50-1 per guest
* **Cake delivery team:** $20-40 for the whole crew
* **Rental company delivery:** $10-20 per person
* **Venue setup crew:** $20-50 per person
* **Cleanup crew:** $10-20 per person

These smaller tips add up fast for big weddings. Have cash ready throughout your wedding day as different service providers arrive and finish their work.

## **How to Handle Wedding Day Tipping**

Planning your tip distribution ahead of time saves you major stress on your wedding day. Nobody wants to be counting cash and stuffing envelopes while getting ready.

Two weeks before your wedding, visit your bank to get the right cash denominations. Ask for mostly $20s and $50s, with some $10s for smaller tips. Count out each tip and put it in a labeled envelope with the vendor's name and amount written clearly on the outside.

Choose one trusted person to handle all the tip distribution. Your wedding planner is perfect for this job if you have one. Otherwise, your maid of honor, best man, or a responsible family member can do it. Give them a detailed list that includes:

* **Vendor names and tip amounts**
* **When to give each tip**
* **Where to find each vendor**
* **A backup phone number** in case of questions (preferably a close family or friend’s)

Some vendors prefer digital payments through Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle. Ask about their preferences when you're doing final contract details.

Keep extra $20 bills available for unexpected service providers or moments when someone goes way above and beyond. You might discover an amazing setup crew member or cake delivery person who deserves recognition.

## **Smart Ways to Show Appreciation**

Not every couple has room in their budget for monetary tips, especially with wedding costs continuing to rise. Vendors totally understand this - they know weddings are expensive. There are other meaningful ways to show gratitude that vendors really value.

Consider these alternatives when cash isn't possible:

* **Write detailed online reviews:** Five-star reviews on Zola or Google directly help vendors book more clients
* **Share your professional photos:** Vendors need portfolio images for their websites and marketing materials
* **Make referrals:** Recommend them to newly engaged friends and post in wedding planning Facebook groups
* **Send handwritten thank-you notes:** Personal notes mean more than you might think in our digital world
* **Tag them on social media:** Instagram and Facebook posts increase their visibility and show public appreciation
* **Write testimonials:** Detailed testimonials they can use on their websites are incredibly valuable

The most important "tip" is being a great client throughout the planning process. Show up on time for appointments, communicate clearly, pay invoices promptly, and treat everyone with respect. Vendors remember clients who made their jobs easier and more enjoyable.

Some vendors actually prefer reviews and referrals over cash tips because they have longer-lasting business benefits. A glowing review can bring them new clients for years to come.

> “If you feel moved to show extra appreciation, the best "tip" you can give me is a glowing review and sharing my name with friends and family. Kind words and referrals go such a long way!” - Thalia Abreu, Zola Photographer

## **Find Your Perfect Wedding Team**

Understanding wedding tipping etiquette helps you budget properly and build great relationships with your vendor team. When you work with professionals who truly get your vision and deliver amazing service, showing appreciation feels natural and worthwhile.

Ready to find vendors who deserve your gratitude?[ Discover top-rated wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) who'll help create the wedding day you've been dreaming of.

**_Methodology_**_: Data is derived from Zola’s 2026 Wedding Spend Survey (n=720). To ensure the highest level of accuracy and authority, this study supplements the annual Zola Wedding Cost Index by exclusively surveying couples within 180 days post-wedding. This allows us to capture granular, real-world insights into hidden costs, specific vendor tipping behaviors, and niche vendor trends._

## **Frequently Asked Questions**

### **Should I tip vendors who own their wedding businesses?**

Business owners don't expect tips like their employees do, but a small tip (1-5%) for exceptional service is always appreciated - it's your call based on your experience and budget.

### **Can I add my wedding vendor tips to the final bill instead of paying cash?**

Yes, many vendors accept tips added to their final invoice via credit card, though cash is still preferred since they get it immediately without processing fees.

### **Who should distribute tips on my wedding day if I'm too busy?**

Your wedding planner, maid of honor, best man, or another trusted person can handle tip distribution using pre-labeled envelopes and your written instructions.

### **Is it acceptable not to tip wedding vendors if I'm over budget?**

Absolutely - vendors understand weddings are expensive, and a sincere thank-you note or five-star online review can be just as meaningful as money.

### **Do wedding vendors prefer cash tips or other forms of appreciation?**

Most vendors prefer cash for its convenience, but many genuinely value positive reviews and referrals just as much since they help grow their business over time.

how much to tip wedding vendors and venue coordinator

Couple sharing a kiss at their wedding, surrounded by floral arrangements with red and white flowers and yellow roses.

Average Cost of Weddings in 2026: (A Real Numbers Guide)

How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors

A wedding party is a group of people chosen by the couple to support and celebrate them throughout their journey from engagement to marriage. The people chosen to be in a wedding party are typically close friends and family members of the bride(s) or groom(s). They are responsible for certain duties, both before and during the big day. Some of these wedding party duties include: 

- Planning pre-wedding activities such as showers and bachelor/bachelorette parties.
- Helping the bride and/or groom get dressed and ready on the big day.
- Participating in the ceremony by standing nearby  after the bride’s grand entrance until after the couple exchanges their vows.
- Historically, members of the wedding party would be the witnesses to a marriage, and would sign off on any sort of legal documentation necessary. 

## What’s the Difference Between a Wedding Party and a Bridal Party? 
- A __wedding party__ is the term for the entire group of people who participate in the ceremony alongside the couple—the maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any children such as the flower girl or ring bearer. 
- The __bridal party__, is just the group chosen by the bride to support her on the wedding day. 

Traditionally, bridal party members are made up of only women. However, as more and more couples are choosing to do things in their own way, the bride is no longer confined to choosing just women to be in her support crew. Thus the term “wedding party” (or even “commitment crew”) is the more modern, all-inclusive term used to describe the people chosen by the couple to surround and support them on their special day. 

## Who Should Be in My Wedding Party?
There are three categories of people who are usually included in the wedding party:
1. __Siblings:__ Any siblings, including step-siblings or future siblings-in-law, are often first on the wedding party list. 
2. __Close family:__ Cousins or other relatives near in age to the couple are also often a good fit for the wedding party.
3. __Best friends:__ The bride and/or groom’s dearest pals are another good choice for the wedding party—but they should be friends that have, or will, stand the test of time. Keep in mind these are the people that will be in your wedding photos forever!

## Traditional Wedding Party Roles
At weddings with a "head table," the wedding party sits with the bride and/or groom. With a "sweetheart table", the couple is seated separately from their wedding party, but their closest friends and family are still in close proximity.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the titles and roles you’ll find in a traditional wedding party, as well as lengthier explanations for what each of these roles are expected to do. 

- *__Pro Tip:__ While these are the textbook divisions of matrimonial labor, however you choose to assign responsibilities is completely up to you and your partner. If you want to plan your own bachelorette party, skip it entirely, or skip having a wedding party for that matter, do what feels right for you. However you seek outside support during your wedding planning, make sure you articulate nicely and clearly what you need from each of the important people in your life so that they can help you have the meaningful, important day you’re hoping for.*

### Quick Look at Traditional Wedding Party Roles
- Best Man: the groom’s main dude. 
- Groomsman: the groom’s auxiliary dudes.
- Maid of Honor: the bride’s main lady.
- Matron of Honor: the bride’s main lady, but she’s married.
- Bridesmaid: the bride’s auxiliary ladies.
- Junior Bridesmaid or Junior Groomsman: usually tween-age family members or children of the bride and groom’s closest
- Flower girl or boy: usually somewhere between the ages of 3 and 12; petal-tossers.
- Ring Bearer: usually somewhere between the ages of 3 and 12; ring or sign holder.

### Detailed Look at Traditional Wedding Party Roles
- __Best Man:__ A close friend of the groom, the best man is predominantly responsible for the social aspect of the groom’s wedding party. He is expected to:
  - Plan the [bachelor party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-bachelor-parties).
  - Attend the wedding rehearsal 
  - Help keep the groomsmen on time throughout the big day.
  - Help out the groom and make sure he has everything he needs.
  - Assist with things like handing out programs to wedding guests or ushering before the ceremony.
  - Serve as keeper of the wedding rings (including handing them over at the correct moment during the wedding ceremony).
  - [Give a speech](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast) during the reception.
  - Share in the regular groomsmen’s responsibilities.

- __Maid or Matron of Honor:__ Traditionally, the maid (or matron) of honor attends all pre-wedding events that the bride attends. Here are the maid of honor’s expected duties: 
  - Help plan or host the bridal party luncheon.
  - Attend the wedding rehearsal.
  - Help plan or host the [bridal shower](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-bridal-shower). 
  - Help plan or host the [bachelorette party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-bachelorette-parties).
  - Make sure all the bridesmaids are ready with their bridesmaid dress, hair, with hair and makeup and on time on the wedding day.
  - Provide refreshments during getting-ready hours.
  - Hold the bride’s bouquet during portions of the ceremony.
  - Help the bride navigate the bathroom in her dress.
  - Bustle the bride’s wedding dress before the reception.
  - Give a speech during the reception.
  - Shares in the regular bridesmaids’ responsibilities. 

- __Bridesmaids & Groomsmen:__ These wedding attendants share many of the same duties. Both bridesmaids and groomsmen are expected to: 
  - Attend—and perhaps even plan—pre-wedding events such as the engagement party, bachelor or bachelorette parties, wedding showers, and wedding rehearsals.
  - Buy appropriate wedding attire and accessories.
  - Buy the couple a wedding gift.
  - Get ready with the bride or groom on the wedding day.
  - Process down the aisle and/or stand next to the couple.
  - Act as stand-in hosts as needed during the reception.
  - Hit the dance floor when requested.
  - Occasionally give a speech at the wedding reception.

- __Parents of the Bride(s) or Groom(s):__ Traditionally, the bride’s parents and/or groom’s parents are expected to be involved in both the wedding planning, wedding rehearsals, and the actual wedding day itself, and may also share financial responsibility for part or all of the wedding. The parents of the bride and groom typically: 
  - Serve as point people for extended or out-of-town families.
  - Serve as point people for guests who need extra assistance during the wedding ceremony and reception.
  - Some or all of the parents will give a toast at the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception, welcoming their new child-in-law and celebrating the union of their two families.

  - __Mother of the Bride:__ The bride’s mother can serve a similar role to the MOH in that she provides an extra level of support throughout the wedding planning process. Mothers of the bride usually help shop for the wedding dress, the bride’s necklace, costumes, and other important garments; she may also have a hand in planning the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and possibly a bridal luncheon for the bridal party and close female family members. On the wedding day, she helps the bride get ready, may walk her daughter down the aisle, and participate in the first dances. 

  - __Mother of the Groom:__ The groom’s mother may perform some or all of the above functions, though she usually plays a slightly smaller role than the mother of the bride. The mother of the groom takes part in the mother-son dance.

  - __Father of the Bride:__ The bride’s father typically plays a smaller role in the run-up to the wedding, but has several duties on the day of the wedding. Some families choose to have a “first look” with the father of the bride, which allows the bride and her dad to spend some quality time together before the ceremony. The father of the bride often walks his daughter down the aisle and “gives her away” at the altar, either by himself or with the mother of the bride. He will also take part in the father-daughter dance.

  - __Father of the Groom:__ The groom’s father’s role is often even more limited, though in recent years more and more grooms have included their fathers as members of their wedding party or even asked their dads to serve as their best men. 

- __Other Family and Friends:__ Between (step)parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, you might have a whole horde of family knocking down your door to celebrate you and your partner on your special day...and that’s not even counting all your dear friends. Whether to choose to have a wedding party or not, you can find ways to expand your VIP roster by honoring your loved ones with specific roles or responsibilities. Here are a few ideas (feel free to get creative with titles):
  - Ceremony reader 
  - Ceremony musician or singer
  - Ceremony greeter who hands out programs
  - Ceremony usher
  - Guest book attendant 
  - Wedding officiant
  - Wedding Dj

## Do You Need to Have a Wedding Party?
The short answer is no—having a wedding party is definitely not a requirement if it doesn’t feel right to you and your partner. There are plenty of reasons why a couple might not want any wedding party members: perhaps they have too many friends and family to choose from and don’t want to make tough choices, or perhaps they would prefer to have just the two of them up at the altar for a more intimate moment. If you’re eloping, having a very small wedding, or if this is not your first time getting married, having a wedding party might feel unnecessary. The choice to have a wedding party—and if so, who those people are—is totally up to you.

You said “Yes!” Now comes the fun part of planning your dream wedding. But one of your first tasks can be a challenging one: narrowing down the wedding guest list. What if there are some family members that might not make the cut?

__Table of Contents:__

Part 1: <a href="#1">Reasons to Not Invite Family to the Wedding</a>  
Part 2: <a href="#2">Dos to Consider When Not Inviting Family </a>  
Part 3: <a href="#3">Don’ts to Consider When Not Inviting Family</a>  

It’s your wedding, and you can invite whoever you want to. You should definitely never feel obligated to invite anyone, including family members, especially if there’s good reason to leave them off the list. 

Still, it can be an undeniably awkward situation. If you’re not sure how to handle it, [Zola](https://www.zola.com/)’s here to help. Read on:

## __Part 1: Reasons to Not Invite Family to the Wedding__<a id="1"> </a>  

Weddings often bring family drama to the surface. Usually, it’s important to invite family members to the wedding, but there are some exceptions. 

#### __The Relationship is Rocky and Can’t Be Repaired Before the Wedding__

You want your loved ones surrounding you on your big day, but if there’s tension hovering, things can be a bit awkward. The idea of celebrating your wedding with extra guests you don’t get along with, dislike, or haven’t spoken to in years can be a tough decision. But, you have to ask yourself if it’s worth potentially ruining a relationship. If you’ll be seeing the person or people at future family events, perhaps you should think about mending things. If it's not salvageable, be prepared for possible repercussions. 

#### __The Budget is Tight__

The amount of people you should invite to your wedding depends on a few things, including your budget, venue, and the type of vibe or atmosphere you’re trying to create. Usually, it’s best to split the guest list between you and your partner, so you have an even number of family and friends from both sides. 

If you’re sticking to your wedding budget, then you have to think about how much you’re willing to spend, since that will determine how many people you can invite. Remember: [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) cost money. If you’re on a tight budget, perhaps you can only afford to invite immediate family members from both sides. 

#### __They Make You and Others Uncomfortable__ 
Sometimes, there are family members that tend to go overboard with everything. If having them at the wedding will make you or your guests uncomfortable, cutting them from your invite list is perfectly okay. While you could try to fix things ahead of time, sometimes it’s not worth the effort. 
Often, peace of mind is more valuable than having a relative that loves drama or has caused your family pain at the wedding. You shouldn’t feel forced to invite anyone that makes you uncomfortable, especially because it’s your wedding.

## __Part 2: Dos to Consider When Not Inviting Family__ <a id="2"> </a>  
There are many couples who choose not to invite family members for various reasons, but it’s especially hard when it’s because of a strained relationship. Even budget constraints can be delicate, since you still have to be aware of people’s feelings. Here are some things to do when you’re not planning to invite family members to your wedding. 

#### __Do Surround Yourself With Loved Ones__
For your wedding, you want to feel fulfilled rather than devoid, so it’s important to surround yourself with the people you’ve chosen as family. Family can mean close friends that you consider closer than blood relatives. 

#### __Do Be Honest__
The worst thing you can do is completely avoid any questions about the uninvited guests. Confront the situation head on by explaining to family members that you had a tough decision, and you wanted everyone there, but the guest list is final. There’s no need to go into why you opted to keep them off the guest list. It’s up to you how much to reveal. 

#### __Do Be Mindful and Gentle With People’s Feelings__ 
You’re already dealing with a lot of stress planning the wedding, and having to hurt someone’s feelings only adds to it. Still, it’s important to be mindful of your family members' feelings and be aware that they actually wanted to share in your big day, not just the free food and drinks. If they ask why they weren’t invited, try not to be offended and understand that they may simply feel left out. 

#### __Do Think of Other Ways to Include Non-Invited Family Members__

If you’re having a smaller, intimate wedding and there are several family members that you weren’t able to invite to your celebration, there are still ways to include them. If you feel bad about not inviting them, have a second reception just for them. That can be in the form of a backyard cookout, a cocktail party, or even a big family dinner. It’s totally up to you and your partner. 

#### __Do Invite Them Virtually__ 
Your [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) and budget may not allow for a big wedding. You can still include them virtually. Set up a webcam, or ask your videographer about streaming the wedding online so family members that weren’t invited to the actual in-person ceremony can still take part. 

#### __Do Thank Uninvited Family Members for Gifts__

If the uninvited family member sends a gift, you should definitely thank them. If the non-invite issue comes up, it’s up to you whether or not you want to have that conversation. Remember: It’s your wedding day, and the guest list is up to you. You don’t have to explain yourself. However, if the person is sensitive about the situation, then you can just explain to them that you had tough decisions to make, but you still love them. 

## __Part 3: Don’ts to Consider When Not Inviting Family__ <a id="3"> </a>  

With not inviting some family members, there’s bound to be drama and backlash. Here are some tips to help you stand your ground: 

#### __Don’t Argue About Your Decision__ 
It’s inevitable that the uninvited family member is going to be hurt and upset. If they start debating your decision, don’t argue about it. Instead, give them a warning that it’s something you don’t want to discuss. If they continue to ignore that, politely end the conversation. It’s not worth getting into an argument that could get nasty and cause an even bigger rift. 

#### __Don’t Give in to Invite Fishing__

If someone starts getting pushy and fishing for an invite, don’t adjust your guest list because you feel guilty. Simply reiterate your decision and decline to discuss it further. Don’t answer any more questions about it after that. 

#### __Don’t Allow Yourself to Be Pressured__

Once invited family members hear that some other family members weren’t invited, they may threaten not to attend your wedding. This is your wedding, your decision and they have to respect that. Tell them you’re sorry they won’t be attending, but don’t give in to them pushing you to change your mind. 

Ultimately, it’s your wedding day and your budget. If you have a large family and a smaller budget, there will be some tough cuts. Give yourself grace when creating your guest list, and stand by your decision. Don’t invite the family members that were left off the guest list because you feel obligated or pressured. It’s your wedding—you make the rules. 

If you need help creating your guest list, let [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) help. Use our free and easy to use [guest list manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) to make it simpler to collect RSVPs, meal choices, and mailing addresses.

Not Inviting Family to Your Wedding: Do's and Don'ts

There are many joys that come with planning your wedding. From selecting the floral arrangements to trying on wedding bands, putting together your big day is full of fun, creative, and important choices.

Then, there’s the guest list. Crafting your wedding guest list can be a source of stress for many couples. How many people should I invite? Can my wedding venue hold this many guests? Is my second cousin’s childhood best friend going to be angry if she’s not invited?

These are just a few of the burning questions soon-to-be spouses ask when putting together their wedding guest list. 

On top of making these decisions, there’s also the question of who will even attend the wedding after they receive the invitation. The percentage of guests that actually RSVP can vary depending on the location, date, and time of your wedding. 

Fortunately, Zola has you covered. In this article, we’ll be discussing all the variables that go into your wedding guest list, including how many people you should invite and which guests are most likely to show up. 

## Wedding Guests 101 <a id="exp"> </a>  
The simple truth is that not everyone you invite will end up coming to your wedding. Excluding extremely small ceremonies of just the wedding party, usually about 75-85 percent of the people you invite will actually attend your wedding.

### Types of Guests
One of the biggest influences on whether or not a guest attends your wedding is their proximity to the location. Generally speaking, there are usually three different types of wedding guests:

- __Local guests –__ Typically, around 85 percent of local guests will attend your wedding. These are people who live in or around the city where the ceremony is taking place.

- __Out-of-town guests –__ For many people, a large portion of their list will be out-of-town guests. These guests may not live too far away, but they’ll usually need to stay a couple of nights in order to attend. Couples can expect about 55 percent of out-of-town guests to be present at their wedding. 

- __Destination –__ Finally, we have destination wedding guests. Destination weddings typically require a flight and an extended stay at the wedding location, making it the smallest percentage of the three. Couples should expect about 35 percent of destination wedding guests to attend their big day. That being said, guest lists for destination weddings are often much shorter than a traditional celebration, so this is a factor to keep in mind. 

If you’re planning an out-of-town or destination wedding, finding accommodations for guests doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Zola users can easily create hotel blocks with our online [Hotel Planner](https://zola.hotelplanner.com/Group-Rate/)—making it possible for all your loved ones to join in on the celebration.

### Average Wedding Size
It’s also important to note that the size of a wedding guest list can range quite a bit. While some people prefer to invite only family and wedding party members, others may include their friends and co-workers. The size of your guest list is ultimately up to personal preference, budget, and venue. 

Typically most weddings do not have guest lists that exceed 200 people. Most couples today are planning to celebrate with more than 100 or 150 guests.

Beyond this average, every couple will have a different idea of how big they want their wedding to be. Most weddings can be broken down into three categories:

- __Small weddings –__ Small weddings are great for couples who want an intimate celebration of love. A short guest list can also keep your wedding budget low and leave money for decor, food, and experience. Smaller weddings are typically made up of around 50 people or so.

- __Large weddings –__ If you have the money and the space, a large wedding can be a blast. Large weddings are also extremely inclusive and allow for all your friends and family to celebrate your big day together. Big weddings may have guest lists as long as 300 people or more. 

- __Destination weddings –__ Did you know that one in four weddings are actually destination weddings? This may surprise many people, but the truth is that destination weddings happen all the time; however, their guest lists are usually pretty exclusive. This is because many people cannot take the time off work or afford the accommodations required for a destination wedding. For these reasons, couples planning a destination wedding will typically keep their guest list small—with an average of 86 people.

## Invitation Timeline <a id="std"> </a>  
Ensuring that a majority of your guests actually show up is all about timing. It’s crucial that couples give their loved ones ample time to prepare for the big day, especially when it comes to guests who are traveling to attend. 

The key to preparing your guests for the wedding date is utilizing save the dates.

### What Are Save the Dates?
What’s the difference between a wedding invitation and a save the date? 

For one, save the dates are more casual. They do not include an RSVP or any detailed information regarding the wedding ceremony and wedding reception. Instead, save the dates are a simple heads up that a wedding is in the works.

Save the dates typically convey three main points:

- The names of the couple
- The city where the wedding is going to be held
- The exact date of the wedding ceremony

Save the dates are a vital step in the wedding process, and you’ll want to send them out around seven to ten months before the wedding date.

### When Should Invitations Be Sent?
Wedding Invitations are the more formal side of reserving loved one’s weekends. They typically include an RSVP card (or instructions for a digital RSVP process). Your invitations will also go into greater detail about the following information:

- The exact location of the ceremony
- The time of the ceremony
- Reception information
- Dress code
- Travel information, transportation, and accommodations 

Unlike save the dates, invitations are sent out much later—around three to four months before the wedding. 

Sending your invitations earlier may seem like a good idea if you want all your guests to attend the wedding; however, this is not typically done. The reason is that many people aren’t able to predict their schedules much further ahead. Additionally, when it’s set too far in advance, many people will forget the wedding is approaching. Plus, that’s what the save the date is for.

Looking for a place to purchase all your wedding stationery? Zola has you covered. We offer hundreds of stylish [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) and [save the date](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) designs, and users can even match the two for a perfectly seamless look. 

## Expectations for Your Guest List <a id="avg"> </a>  
Planning a wedding is a lot of work, and setting realistic expectations is crucial to keeping the process smooth and organized.

Here’s what you need to know about guest list expectations:

- __Be realistic –__ You’ll want to keep expectations realistic by asking yourself important questions along the way. How many people do you really want there? How many meals can you afford? Which out-of-town guests have the means of traveling to the wedding location?

- __Keep your space in mind –__ The ceremony and reception venue you select will have a major impact on how long your guest list can be. Consider how many people your venue can hold comfortably and work within these confines. Fortunately, Zola users can check out our database of pre-screened [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) and search for [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) based on size. We have options that range from intimate gatherings of 50 people to large celebrations of 300 or more.

- __Don’t be offended –__ When crafting your guest list and sifting through RSVPs, it’s important to not let emotions get out of control. Planning a wedding can be stressful, and finding out a loved one can’t come never feels good. That being said, couples should keep in mind that people have busy lives, and some loved ones may not be able to travel at this time. Always remember that your friends and family still love you even if they’re unable to attend the wedding. 

## Creating Your Guest List
So we’ve covered the main question at hand: what percentage of people will attend your wedding, but where do you go from here? Gauging how many people will RSVP to your wedding is important because it will help you craft the best guest list possible.

Most couples start by creating their own individual lists and then combining them for a final tally. Here’s how to do this, step-by-step:

- __Step 1:__ Your immediate family – You’ll want to begin your guest list with the immediate family members who will be attending the wedding—this includes parents, siblings, and in-laws.

- __Step 2:__ Wedding party members – By this point, you’ve probably already chosen your wedding party members (ie. best man, best maiden, maid of honor, man of honor, etc.)—so including these guests on your list will be pretty easy. Most wedding parties are typically no larger than 10 people, with five members on each side. 

- __Step 3:__ Extended family – Next, consider how many extended family members you’ll want to invite. This list includes grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and perhaps any close family friends. This step will often take up a large portion of your guest list, since many people have large extended families.

- __Step 4:__ Close and mutual friends – Next, you have all the friends who are not part of the wedding party. Think about your friends in terms of groups and go through your list thoroughly to make sure that you haven’t forgotten anyone important. You and your fiance can also compare lists when it comes to mutual friends, in order to avoid sending out double invites by accident. 

- __Step 5:__ Co-workers – Do you have any [colleagues from work](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-coworkers-should-you-invite-to-your-wedding) that you’d like to invite? If you have the space on your guest list, now is the time to include them. The same goes for colleagues from any previous jobs that you’ve had who you remained friends with. 

- __Step 6:__ Spouses and significant others – Traditionally, it’s common courtesy to invite the spouses and partners of any of your guests. As far as new romantic relationships go, there is no cut-and-dry etiquette for invitations, but it’s always polite to give adult guests a plus one. 

- __Step 7:__ Children – If you’re inviting the parents of a young child, it’s a nice gesture to invite their children too. That being said, some couples may prefer to have a child-free wedding, and this practice is fairly common. Sometimes, parents are excited for a night to themselves—in this case, we recommend giving people a heads up so that they can find a babysitter. 

- __Step 8:__ Guests of parents – If parents are contributing money to the wedding, it's customary for them to add their own guests to the list—this goes for your spouse’s parents, too.

- __Step 9:__ Out-of-town guests – For couples with close friends and family who live far away, it’s traditional to send out an invitation to them regardless of whether or not they can come. Not only is this the polite thing to do, but it also leaves room for a pleasant surprise if they actually can make it.

- __Step 10:__ Plus ones – Although we briefly touched upon this subject in step six, plus ones are crucial to keep in mind when crafting your guest list. If you’re allowing a guest to bring a plus one, this must be stated on the invitation. If not explicitly stated, this usually means a plus one is not expected. Not being specific about plus-ones can lead to problems with seating, so just be sure to make this as clear as possible. Traditionally, single adults are allowed plus ones, while younger guests are not. Plus-ones can be a sensitive subject, since most people do not want to attend a wedding alone. This is why it's important to remain considerate when determining the plus one rule for your wedding day. 

You and your fiance will each make your own list, and then compare at the end. While these lists should be relatively equal, the final number is ultimately up to you. If you tend to keep your circle tight, and your spouse is more of a social butterfly, there’s nothing wrong with them having a few more guests on their list. Just remember to communicate and make sure that you’re on the same page every step of the way. 

## Building Your Seating Chart
After you’ve finalized the guest list, it’s time to move on to the seating chart. 

Generally, weddings of over 50 people will need a seating chart to keep things organized. Here are some basic tips you’ll want to keep in mind when crafting this essential part of your wedding day:

- __Choose tables wisely –__ You’ll want to spend a good amount of time figuring out who will sit together at each table. Usually, wedding party members sit together with the happy couple. Families will also typically sit together, often sectioned off by immediate family or sides of the family. The parents of the couple may sit together or with their own family members, depending on their relationship to each other. Friends from the same groups—such as high school friends, college friends, and co-workers—will usually sit together, too.

- __Kids table –__ If you do choose to invite kids, you’ll probably have a designated kids table. Most weddings only have a single kids table, since a majority of guests will be adults.

- __Surprise guests –__ Sometimes, you get a few surprise arrivals on your wedding day. This may be due to a lost RSVP in the mail, or an unexpected plus one brought by a guest. It’s important to have a few extra chairs on hand just in case an additional guest arrives.

With Zola's [Wedding seating chart](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/seating-chart), you can seat all your guests in minutes. 

### How Many People Should Sit at Each Table? 
The number of guests at each table will depend on your venue and layout, but large circular tables can usually fit around eight to 12 people comfortably. 

Some couples may opt for longer, rectangular tables to create a family-style dining experience. These types of tables are able to fit a larger number of people and may work better for more intimate gatherings by allowing all your guests to sit together. 

Putting together a seating chart on paper can be complicated and time-consuming. That’s why many couples are ditching the cork boards and thumbtacks for Zola’s [online guest list manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests). Users can create organized seating charts directly on our website and save them for later.

## Plan Your Perfect Guest List at Zola<a id="zola"> </a>  
Wedding planning can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be when you use Zola.

Zola is your one-stop shop for all your nuptial necessities: from helpful planning tools—like our vendor database and online guest manager—to stylish invitation designs, and even [Expert Wedding Advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice). Once you start putting together your big day from the comfort of home, you’ll be able to ditch the stress and jump straight to the celebration.

Start planning your wedding the modern way today, at Zola!

A Guide to Save The Dates

What Percentage of Guests Should You Expect to Come to Your Wedding?

All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons

How Many Guests Should I Expect to Come to My Wedding?

Your complete guide to wedding planning from start to finish. Get practical advice and insider tips for planning your dream wedding from staying within your budget to creating your gift registry to all the little details in between saying "Yes!" and "I do". Find answers to all your wedding planning questions here.

Wedding Planning 101: Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding

Learn from real couples as they break down exactly how they planned and budgeted for their weddings. Find weddings similar to what you're planning and get inspired by these weddings across a varitey of locations and budgets.

Learn how to create a wedding budget that works for you. Find practical advice and expert tips on how to stay within your budget while creating the wedding you want.

When you’re enjoying being [newly engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/relationship-advice/newly-engaged-couples), the last thing you want to think about is your wedding budget. In fact, almost half of all [Zola couples report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2024) that setting and sticking to a budget was the most stressful part of wedding planning. 

We can’t promise you a completely stress-free experience leading up to your wedding day. However, we can help you avoid financial headaches as much as possible by tackling one of the most confusing questions for many couples: how to set your wedding budget. And Zola has answers.

## What is a good budget for a wedding?<a id="good"> </a>

The [average wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding#) is $36,000. If that seems high, don’t panic. There are hundreds of ways to whittle that cost down to size. Plus, some people who have micro-weddings spend as little as $500 on their wedding and still enjoy a picture-perfect day. The cost of your wedding day is really up to you. 

## What is a realistic wedding budget? <a id="realistic"> </a>

Determining how much to spend on each part of your wedding costs isn’t exactly simple, as wedding costs vary by location and time of year. That said, there are a few straightforward steps you can take to help you get.

Many couples ask, "Is $10,000 a good wedding budget?" The answer is: It depends. If you're having a backyard wedding with simple florals and catering, that amount is feasible. However, if you want to get married at an upscale hotel or winery, some wedding venues charge $10,000 just for rental. 

A realistic wedding budget is one that works for you and your partner, the size of your guest list, and the type of big day you envision.

__Expert Advice:__ Easily set and keep track of your wedding budget from anywhere: try Zola’s [free budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) with payment reminders and tips on how much to spend.

![Wedding Couple Bride Groom](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1ygQJ8Ljpvvun4siEqtyEX/63898622d16e45e9fb6fbf75feaad09c/Wedding_Couple_Bride_Groom.jpg) Photo by [Trulove Studios](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/jerrell-trulove-photography)

## Wedding budget breakdown and cost-saving tips<a id="tips"> </a>

It’s important to note that wedding expenses and wedding budgets are extremely individual—it’s part of what makes researching all things ‘wedding budget’ so frustrating. Here’s how most couples divide up their wedding budget breakdown. (Note that this totals over 100%, as not everyone will include every category in their wedding expenses).

### Wedding venue: 17% 

What is the biggest expense in a wedding? Typically the venue, but you can save money on your venue a few different ways:

- __Choose off-peak days and times.__ Saturday is the most popular day of the week for weddings and therefore almost always the most expensive. Consider a Friday evening or Sunday or, if it won’t wreck plans for your nearest and dearest, another weekday. 
- __Consider less popular seasons.__ This depends on where in the world you’re planning on tying the knot. Generally, winter months are more affordable than summer months. 
- __Look for all-inclusive packages.__ Particularly if you’re having a destination wedding, some wedding venues will offer [all-inclusive packages](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/all-inclusive-wedding-venues-pros-and-cons). Generally, this includes food and drink packages which can help save costs on a big expense. 

Find the [perfect wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues) on Zola’s marketplace.

### Catering: 14%

The easiest avenue to saving money on your catering is to opt for a buffet rather than a sit-down meal. You can also look into a morning or afternoon wedding, as brunch, breakfast, or lunch packages tend to be cheaper (and less alcohol-focused!) than late afternoon or evening weddings. Your guest list size will also be a factor. You’ll need more food for a 100-person wedding versus one with only 20. 

Search for a [caterer that fits your wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering) on Zola.

### Photography: 9%

We’ll be honest: if there’s one area you shouldn’t skimp on when wedding planning, it’s your photography. After all, there’s nothing more crushing than looking back at photos from your special day that aren’t up to scratch. However, if you’re looking to cut costs, see if anyone in your personal network can offer a reduced photography fee as a wedding present to you and your partner. 

Find [professional wedding photographers on Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers).

### Videography: 8%

Not every couple includes videography in their wedding planning budget. If you’re trying to cut costs, leave this one out altogether. Or, see if you can find a student or amateur videographer (as long as you’ve got photography from a pro!)

Seach your area for qualified [videographers on Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers).

### Flowers: 13%

You’ll need to be strategic if you’re hoping to restrict your wedding budget with your flowers. A few of the best ways include choosing seasonal blooms, bulking out your bouquets with greenery and foliage, choosing single-bloom bouquets, and looking for local or wholesale florists. You can also just opt for artificial flowers if you’re on a tight wedding budget. 

[Find florists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists) within your budget on our marketplace.

![Floral Ceremony Ring](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Jjd5WN7eWGMYYa4oWt7q0/141d2678e1f8dcbce518df5dcc76bd1a/Floral_Ceremony_Ring.jpg) Photo via [Belle of the Ball Designs
](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/belle-of-the-ball-designs)
### Entertainment: 3-8%

Choose a band or DJ rather than both. Or, to cut costs even more, ask someone musically-minded in your network to put together a wedding soundtrack that you can play yourself. If you know you want some kind of live entertainment, limit the hours they’ll play, book far in advance, and consider local artists who won’t have to charge transport fees.  

[Choose a band or a DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs) from Zola’s list of vendors.

### Hair and makeup: 1-2%

One of the best ways to save money on your hair and makeup? Do them yourself or enlist a friend’s help. If you’re looking for pro support, look into beauty schools (students are often super talented and have a great range of tools) or look for mobile stylists. When it comes to the actual work, choose simple styles rather than overly elaborate designs. 

[Find hair and makeup stylists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup) within your budget on Zola.

### Cake and/or dessert: 2%

For starters, opt for something fun like a donut wall or dessert bar rather than a sit-down dessert. Cakes with fewer layers tend to be less expensive than those with multiple tiers. Buttercream is cheaper than fondant, and common flavors are usually cheaper and more accessible than unique ingredients. The “naked cake” trend is another popular way to save money here. 

Search for [cake and dessert bakers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/florida--wedding-cakes-desserts) here. 

### Officiant: 1%

If you have a close friend or family member who's comfortable speaking in public, you could ask them to officiate your wedding. In many places, they can become ordained online for free or at low cost, although you'll want to check local and state laws first. 

Some couples choose to have a simple civil ceremony at the courthouse or city hall. The fees for these services are usually a fair bit lower than hiring a separate officiant.

### Stationery: 2-5%

The easiest way to save money on your wedding stationery (save the dates, wedding invitations, thank you cards) is to go digital, and Zola has several [digital wedding stationery options](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/digital/save-the-date/shop). If that’s not to your taste, opt for standard-size envelopes, print in bulk, design the stationery yourself (check out our popular [DIY wedding invites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/afe11498-7506-4d03-b30f-d7a024c91afa)), and use simple designs that don’t require fancy embellishments. 

![Wedding Stationery Flatlay](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/54AYbXAzPqPLxPrm7OmPVw/3a64000eced02331b2affdc2f2ba9115/Wedding_Stationery_Flatlay.jpg) Photo by [Candace Shiflet Photo](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/candace-shiflet-photo)

### Wedding attire: 8-10%

Don’t feel like you have to spend thousands on a wedding outfit for your special day. David's Bridal, Lulus, ASOS, and Azazie all offer great options at lower prices. You can also consider renting your [wedding dress](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/fashion-beauty/wedding-dresses) from brands like Rent the Runway. 

When it comes to [accessories](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop-accessories), skip the bridal stores and head straight to your favorite fashion brands. Look for white (or your chosen color) accessories without the wedding mark-up. 

### Wedding planner: 8%

A wedding planner is totally optional. But if you’re prioritizing one in your wedding budget, consider a “day of” or a "month of” planner rather than full-service wedding planning. We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know when it comes to [choosing a wedding planner in this article](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-planner). 

### Rentals: 5%

You’ve already ticked the budget-friendly box by renting rather than buying certain elements of your wedding. There are rental options for pretty much anything you might need for your wedding besides edible items. From vintage tableware and lounge seating to attire and silk florals, you can rent just about anything nowadays.

### Transportation: 2%

While no one expects you to hop on the bus to your wedding venue, there are still a few easy ways you can cut costs. Instead of renting multiple vehicles, consider using a single, larger vehicle for the bridal party or immediate family. 

Or, if you’ve got friends or family members with stylish cars, ask if you can borrow (or rent) their vehicle for your wedding day. If you have a large group to transport from A to B (like the ceremony venue to the reception), it's worth looking into shuttles rather than paying for individual cars. Check out our article on [wedding transportation](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-transportation-101), for more details.

## Things to consider when setting your wedding budget<a id="consider"> </a>

Now you’re equipped with everything you need to know regarding saving money on your wedding, cost by cost. But don’t forget the admin side of things, too.  

### 1. Determine who's contributing

Figure out who pays for the wedding and what each person or couple contributes. Many couples pay for the wedding themselves, while some couples’ families cover all or some of the expenses. See our guide on [who pays for the wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/who-should-pay-for-wedding#:~:text=As%20is%20often%20seen%20with,wedding%20costs%20on%20their%20own.) for a full breakdown of the best ways to broach the subject of asking for wedding budget contributions.

### 2. Finalize your numbers

Once you know who is chipping in and how much they’ll be adding to the budget, it’s time to finalize your totals. 

To determine your total wedding budget, add together how much each person is contributing. It sounds simple, but there are a few mistakes that some couples make during this wedding budget breakdown stage:

- Assuming that family and/or friends can or will contribute without discussing it with them first.
- Factoring in lines of credit, such as credit cards or loans, rather than creating a budget based on readily available funds like cash, savings, and income. 

__Pro Tip:__ Never acquire more wedding debt than you can repay within a few months.

![Wedding Venue Brick Walls Indoor](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PaVSKVnBrmjx3UPUP6Mdn/8d37f18415e75cb20e867ee7ab5b1015/Wedding_Venue_Brick_Walls_Indoor.jpg) Photo via [Melrose Knitting Mill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/melrose-knitting-mill)

### 3. Do your research

After you have finalized your totals, we recommend researching typical wedding costs in your wedding location to figure out how much you can expect to spend on wedding vendors specific to your area.

Remember, beautiful weddings are planned on budgets of all sizes every year, so don’t get discouraged if prices are more than you initially expected. 

There is always [room to negotiate](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-negotiate-with-wedding-vendors).

### 4. Prioritize your spending

Your research should give you a sense of what to expect and will help you set your priorities for your wedding. Sit down with your partner to discuss your visions for the day and what vendors and details are most important to you both. 

For example, if a packed dance floor is one of your goals, consider setting aside a larger portion of your budget for a great live band or DJ. Keep your vision in mind as you plan, and use it as a guide when deciding when to splurge and when to save.

To help set your priorities, here’s a great exercise for you and your partner to do:

*Answer the questions below individually at first, then come together to discuss why you each chose your answers and to reach an agreement on your mutual priorities.*

1. What is my ideal engagement length (1 year, 6 months, etc.)?
2. What is my ideal number of guests?
3. What is my ideal wedding location (city, state, country)?
4. What is my ideal wedding season?
5. What is my ideal wedding ceremony and/or wedding reception environment (indoor, beach, church, etc.)?
6. What is my ideal wedding dress code (black tie, casual, cocktail, etc.)?
7. What is my ideal wedding budget?
8. What is my ideal wedding vibe (laid-back, formal, intimate, etc.)?
9. What is my ideal wedding theme or style (glam, boho, rustic, etc.)?
10. What are three things I want my wedding to include (lots of dancing, great food, beautiful invitations, etc.)?
11. What vendors do I not want to go without (videographer, wedding planner, etc.)?
12. How do I want my guests to feel at the wedding (entertained, loved, excited, etc.)?
13. What details do I want to prioritize for the biggest portions of the wedding budget (wedding flowers such as bouquets and centerpieces, reception venue, etc.)?
14. What details, if any, am I interested in DIYing?
15. Who would be my ideal pick to officiate the wedding?
16. What do I want to do for wedding favors and gifts for the wedding party?
17. Would I prefer an open or cash bar (or something else)?

## Wedding budget mistakes to avoid<a id="mistakes"> </a>

The following are a handful of budgeting mistakes you should look for as you navigate budget and [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/). Getting ahead of them now means you won’t have to handle them later.

### Setting aside less money than needed

It’s better to save more money than you believe you’ll need than to set aside too little and think you’ll ultimately be okay. Even if you might be, certain expenses can catch you off guard up until and even through your big day. Prepare not just for what’s needed—but that and then some, just in case.

### Spending money without keeping expense records

It becomes difficult to stick to a wedding budget when you aren’t vigilant about tracking expenses. When you agree to an expense or purchase something, put the total spent into your wedding records. Keep this current and reflect often on how much you’ve spent and how much wedding money you have left.

![Outdoor Fall Wedding Bride and Groom Lauughing](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1i1AXczOwlbL4WGGbvVcms/3fb34efd89653312feb8a07d3c0f628f/Outdoor_Fall_Wedding_Bride_and_Groom_Lauughing.jpg) Photo by [Rock & Love Weddings](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/rockandloveweddings)

### Not considering the extras in your budget

There are a number of things you might not initially consider when creating your budget, from little things like linens, ceremony programs, and your marriage license to larger items, such as wedding attire, gratuities, and your rehearsal dinner. Up front, take the time to create an exhaustive list of everything you might spend money on to avoid overlooking anything. 

### Not saving for emergency purchases

Alongside miscellaneous spending, you need to include an emergency purchases budget amount. This allocated money can be put toward just about anything leading up to your wedding, from forgotten and needed expenses to actual emergencies. Not accounting for this from the beginning can eventually put you in a difficult situation.

### Not using any rewards program you may have access to

If possible, we highly recommend putting expenses on a rewards credit card you’re familiar with and understand. Ideally, you can put charges on this card, immediately pay them off, and then utilize the rewards points towards things like your honeymoon.

## Use Zola’s calculator for budgeting<a id="calculator"> </a>

If you’re having—or anticipate having—trouble keeping track of your expenses, try using our [wedding budget calculator](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget). In the Zola app, simply tap on “start budgeting.” This will take you to a fully customizable budget sheet you can update throughout your wedding planning. No stress, no mysterious expenses.

Now that you know how to budget for a wedding, you may have other questions. That's where Zola's [expert advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice) section can help. From [getting engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/getting-engaged) to planning your [honeymoon](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/honeymoons), we have tons of advice at your fingertips. 

Green/bluescale image of jar of money tipped over with change spilling out

How to Set Your Wedding Budget Step by Step

What is a wedding website? Do you need one? Learn all about wedding websites, why they make wedding planning so much easier for you and your guests, and finally, how to create the perfect website for your wedding!

Gone are the days of relying solely on snail mail to inform your guests about your wedding day. Thanks to [wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/8-ways-to-create-a-personalized-wedding-website), you can efficiently communicate all of the important details about your big day in one place.

Better yet, wedding websites with a landing page are more convenient for your guests, especially those who are prone to losing physical invitations. Your guests can refer back to your __[wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website)__ any time they have questions about your wedding date, location, registry information, or FAQs.

Also, ban any thoughts that using technology, such as an online RSVP or wedding landing page is tacky. Although older guests may wonder how QR codes work or want a printed wedding program, utilizing technology helps modern wedding guests stay engaged.

Use QR codes for your wedding website and invitations. Having a QR code wedding invitation is unique, but it’s also easily scannable for anyone who has a smartphone camera. They also aren’t difficult to DIY to keep destination wedding details and wedding RSVPs close at hand. And that’s just one of many ways that tech can help keep your wedding planning organized.

So, what is the best way to share your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-website-url-ideas) with your guests? While there aren’t decades of etiquette or tradition behind this innovative tool, we have some suggestions for how you can share it in a classy way. Below, we’ll discuss:

- <a href="#web">__What is a Wedding Website?__</a>
- <a href="#share">__What to Share on Your Wedding Website__</a>
- <a href="#how">__How to Share Your Wedding Website__</a>
- <a href="#explore">__How to Encourage Your Guests to Explore Your Wedding Website__</a>

### What is a Wedding Website?<a id="web"> </a>

A wedding website is a personalized website [created and shared](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/when-should-i-make-a-wedding-website) by an engaged couple. Its purpose is to act as a touchpoint for your guests to access information about your wedding day (or weekend). Typically, your website will include details such as your wedding date, location, and travel accommodations. However, couples may also use theirs to share how they met and introduce their wedding party. Note: If you build a free website with a wedding company, such as Zola, you can also use it to share your gift registry and collect digital RSVPs.

## How to Share Your Wedding Website<a id="share"> </a>

While __[wedding websites have a lot to offer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/make-wedding-website)__, yours won’t do much good if your guests never see it. Fortunately, there are many classy ways to share your wedding website with your guests that make finding information a snap. Here are a few suggestions of where to place the link to your wedding website:

### 1. Include it on the Save the Dates.
Your save the date is the first place you can share your wedding website URL with your guests. Simply list the URL in dainty text somewhere underneath your main message, or add in a QR code that can take your guests straight to your website in a snap.

If your save the date card doesn’t have enough space for your URL, you can also send a “details” enclosure card along with it. Use this card to encourage your guests to visit your wedding website for additional wedding details.

[![Zola QR Code Promo](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5hYJyrZbdCbVYf8gL8ZRtq/1abe728cdf14a9b3e0e0ade433128c67/EA_Article__1_.jpg)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop)

### 2. Use an enclosure card in your formal invitation suite.
If your wedding website wasn’t published when you sent out your save the dates, don’t worry. You can share your URL when you send out your formal invitations too. Many guests will save these invitations for future reference, so they’re a great place to include your URL. This is also the perfect opportunity to include an easily scannable QR code.

### 3. Add it to your wedding shower or bach party invitations.
Include your wedding website URL on all of the invitations for wedding-related festivities leading up to your big day. This will give your guests more opportunities to check out your website while your wedding is fresh in their minds. Keeping this information handy is vital to making everything easy on your attendees.

### 4. Send it via email or text message.
Chances are, you already communicate with most of your guests by email or text. Since you have everyone's contact information, use it to share your [wedding website URL as a clickable link](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002259412-How-do-I-share-my-website-with-my-guests-). Clicking on a link from a laptop or a smartphone is much easier than typing in a URL manually, especially for your less tech-savvy guests. Your guests can also save this text or email message for future reference in case they lose their invitation.

At Zola, we offer a streamlined process for sharing your special link via email. All you have to do is go to your [“Guest List”](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) in the Zola Weddings dashboard. From there, you can:

- Add an email address for each guest on your list

- Check each guest’s name or simply click “Select All”.

- Click the “Bulk Actions” dropdown menu.

- Choose “Send Message”.

- Write a brief message in the field and include your wedding website link and password (if you have one) at the end. An example message might look something like this: “We are so excited to invite you to our wedding. To learn all of the details about our big day, check out our wedding website at www.OurWedding.com. The website’s password is LOVE2021.”

### 5. Make a private Facebook group.
As far as social media goes, Facebook still reigns supreme—everyone seems to have an account. In turn, it’s a convenient place to share your wedding website link too. Post your website in a private group made up of your wedding guests, as opposed to a status update or in a public group. Sharing your link privately will prevent you from hurting any friends’ or family members’ feelings who didn’t make it onto the guest list.

You can enhance the privacy of your website by protecting it with a password. At Zola, you can __[create a custom website password](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002135571-How-do-I-make-my-website-password-protected-)__ in a few easy steps. This will avert any random internet onlookers from stumbling upon your information. It will also prevent uninvited acquaintances from seeing all of your wedding details. Just make sure to use a password that’s easy for your guests to remember and simple to spell.

### 6. Create a QR code and add it where you need it.
Folks are now pretty familiar with how to use a custom QR code. Nowadays, many restaurants use them instead of paper menus, and you can create a dynamic QR code to convey information to your wedding guests. Similar to barcodes, you can use a QR code generation to create QR codes specific to your big day. 

Things like links to your dress code, wedding invitation cards, venue directions, and RSVP cards can all be turned into scannable images using a free QR code generator. Some sellers on Etsy can create a QR code resembling a shape to coordinate with your invitation design. Think about how easy it would be for your guests to scan a QR code RSVP using their smartphone camera. They can easily let you know if they’ll be celebrating with you on your big day. 

### How to Encourage Your Guests to Explore Your Wedding Website

Creating a wedding website can be a ton of fun. However, it also takes up a lot of precious wedding planning time. You have to write out all of your FAQ answers, research local lodging and transportation options for your guests, and get the design just right.

After all of that work, you want to make sure that your guests use your wedding website to its full potential.

To encourage them to explore your website, try out these strategies with your specific site:

- __Prompt them with an informative message:__ When you share your URL on your save the dates, invitations, enclosure cards, and Facebook posts, make sure to include a brief message explaining why your guests should visit your wedding website. Without this message, they may not realize how important it is to check it out. Here are some short and sweet message ideas you can use for inspiration:

- *Check out our website to RSVP and learn more about our special day: insert link*

- *To learn more about our wedding, registry, and more, visit our wedding website:*

- *Get all of the details about our wedding day and RSVP here*

- *For directions, lodging suggestions, and other FAQs, check out our wedding website*

- __Invest in a custom domain name:__ Typing in a complex URL with a string of numbers, letters, and slashes can be difficult for your guests. To make things easier on them, consider purchasing a custom domain name. With a custom domain name, your wedding website URL will read as “JackAndJill.com,” rather than “Zola.com/wedding/JackAndJill.com.” Choosing a custom URL that’s catchy and easy to spell will also increase the chances that your guests type it in correctly and make it onto your website.

- __Employ a user-friendly layout:__ Once your guests get to your website, you want to make sure that they find all of the information they’re looking for with ease. To do so, clearly label each section of your website and arrange the content in an order that flows naturally.

- __Impress your visitors with stylish design:__ Your wedding website is a place where you can showcase your style and creativity. Make sure that you choose an attractive wedding website template and upload beautiful photos. Stylish web design will captivate your visitors’ attention and keep them on your website.

Whether your wedding is elegant, rustic, beachy, or bohemian, Zola has a wedding website template that will compliment your theme. Better yet, each of our wedding website themes has matching __[invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)__, __[save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop)__, and __[enclosure cards](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/enclosures/shop)__. By choosing a cohesive design for all of your wedding materials, you can set the tone for your big day.

## Aid and Impress Guests With a Wedding Website from Zola
A wedding website can help share all of your wedding information with your guests in one convenient location. By using a combination of methods to share your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-a-wedding-website), you can increase the chances that all of your guests find their way onto yours and use it to its full potential.

Zola makes it simple to create free, __[beautifully designed wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website/designs)__ that are easy to navigate and convenient to share. You can even search our templates by color so that yours matches your wedding theme. Leading up to your wedding, you and your guests will appreciate the ease, user-friendly nature, and convenience of this crucial wedding planning tool.

The functionality of Zola’s invitation designs is easy to navigate, making it easy for both tech-savvy and older generations to find information on your site. Minimalist fonts are available for couples who want a sleeker invitation template, and perhaps the best part is that you can select an invitation design to coordinate with your Zola wedding website. Nowadays, having a wedding website is essential and almost expected, so make things simple for your guests — from bridesmaids to your grandparents — by finding the [perfect template](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/20-most-popular-zola-wedding-website-templates) today.

## How to Share Your Wedding Website<a id="how"> </a>

While [wedding websites have a lot to offer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/make-wedding-website), yours won’t do much good if your guests never see it. Fortunately, there are many classy ways to share your wedding website with your guests. You can include it:

<a id="sots"> </a>
### 1. On the Save the Dates
Your save the date is the first place you can share your wedding website URL with your guests. Simply list the URL in dainty text somewhere underneath your main message.

If your save the date card doesn’t have enough space for your URL, you can also send a “details” enclosure card along with it. Use this card to encourage your guests to visit your wedding website for additional wedding details. 

### 2. On an enclosure card in your formal invitation suite
If your wedding website wasn’t published when you sent out your save the dates, don’t worry. You can share your URL when you send out your formal invitations too. Many guests will save these invitations for future reference, so they’re a great place to include your URL. 

### 3. On your wedding shower or bach party invitations
Include your wedding website URL on all of the invitations for wedding-related festivities leading up to your big day. This will give your guests more opportunities to check out your website while your wedding is fresh in their minds.

<a id="link"> </a>
### 4. Via email or text message

Chances are, you already communicate with most of your guests by email or text. Since you have everyone's contact information, use it to share your wedding website URL as a clickable link. Clicking on a link from a laptop or a smartphone is much easier than typing in a URL manually, especially for your less tech-savvy guests. Your guests can also save this text or email message for future reference in case they lose their invitation.

At Zola, we offer a streamlined process for [sharing your special link via email or text](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002259412-How-do-I-share-my-website-with-my-guests-). All you have to do is go to your “Guest List” in the Zola Weddings dashboard. From there, you can:

- Add an email address or phone number for each guest on your list
- Check each guest’s name or simply click “Select All”.
- Click the “Bulk Actions” dropdown menu. 
- Choose “Send Message”.
- Write a brief message in the field and include your wedding website link and password (if you have one) at the end. An example message might look something like this: “We are so excited to invite you to our wedding. To learn all of the details about our big day, check out our wedding website at www.OurWedding.com. The website’s password is LOVE2021.”

### 5. In a private Facebook group
As far as social media goes, Facebook still reigns supreme—everyone seems to have an account. In turn, it’s a convenient place to share your wedding website link too. Post your website it in a private group made up of your wedding guests, as opposed to a status update or in a public group. Sharing your link privately will prevent you from hurting any friends’ or family members’ feelings who didn’t make it onto the guest list.

You can enhance the privacy of your website by protecting it with a password. At Zola, you can [create a custom website password](https://help.zola.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002135571-How-do-I-make-my-website-password-protected-) in a few easy steps. This will avert any random internet onlookers from stumbling upon your information. It will also prevent uninvited acquaintances from seeing all of your wedding details. Just make sure to use a password that’s easy for your guests to remember and simple to spell. 

![When Should I Make a Wedding Website](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/sLKCakFGZZzhLUqPFfwbg/2ec593f04e02c3cd13836ad9b65db680/Hero_Zola__1_.jpg) *Photo Credit* // Zola

## How to Encourage Your Guests to Explore Your Wedding Website<a id="explore"> </a>

Creating a wedding website can be a ton of fun. However, it also takes up a lot of precious wedding planning time. You have to write out all of your FAQ answers, research local lodging and transportation options for your guests, and get the design just right. 

After all of that work, you want to make sure that your guests use your wedding website to its full potential.

To encourage them to explore your website, try out these strategies: 

- __Prompt them with an informative message:__ When you share your URL on your save the dates, invitations, enclosure cards, and Facebook posts, make sure to include a brief message explaining why your guests should visit your wedding website. Without this message, they may not realize how important it is to check it out. Here are some short and sweet message ideas you can use for inspiration:

- *Check out our website to RSVP and learn more about our special day: insert link*
- *To learn more about our wedding, registry, and more, visit our wedding website:*
- *Get all of the details about our wedding day and RSVP here*
- *For directions, lodging suggestions, and other FAQs, check out our wedding website*

- __Invest in a custom domain name:__ Typing in a complex URL with a string of numbers, letters, and slashes can be difficult for your guests. To make things easier on them, consider purchasing a custom domain name. With a custom domain name, your wedding website URL will read as “JackAndJill.com,” rather than “Zola.com/wedding/JackAndJill.com.” Choosing a custom URL that’s catchy and easy to spell will also increase the chances that your guests type it in correctly and make it onto your website.

- __Employ a user-friendly layout:__ Once your guests get to your website, you want to make sure that they find all of the information they’re looking for with ease. To do so, clearly label each section of your website and arrange the content in an order that flows naturally. 

- __Impress your visitors with stylish design:__ Your wedding website is a place where you can showcase your style and creativity. Make sure that you choose an attractive wedding website template and upload beautiful photos. Stylish web design will captivate your visitors’ attention and keep them on your website. 

Whether your wedding is elegant, rustic, beachy, or bohemian, Zola has a wedding website template that will compliment your theme. Better yet, each of our wedding website themes has matching [invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop), [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), and [enclosure cards](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/enclosures/shop). By choosing a cohesive design for all of your wedding materials, you can set the tone for your big day.

## Aid and Impress Guests With a Wedding Website from Zola
A wedding website can help share all of your wedding information with your guests in one convenient location. By using a combination of methods to share your wedding website, you can increase the chances that all of your guests find their way onto yours and use it to its full potential.

Zola makes it simple to create free, [beautifully dessigned wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website/designs) that easy to navigate, and convenient to share. You can even search our templates by color so that yours matches your wedding theme. Leading up to your wedding, you and your guests will appreciate the ease, user-friendly nature, and convenience of this crucial wedding planning tool.

How to Build a Wedding Website: Guide + Tips

11 Dos and Don'ts for Your Wedding Website

How to Share Your Wedding Website

You [wrote your “how we met” story](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-write-your-wedding-website), uploaded your [beautiful engagement photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-get-most-out-of-your-engagement-photos), and [created your wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/registry/registry-basics/tips-for-creating-a-wedding-registry). This can only mean one thing: you completed your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). Congrats! Crafting a wedding website that communicates all the important details about your wedding day is no easy task. Now that you hit publish, you’re probably wondering when and how you should share your brand-spanking-new site with your wedding guests.

While it can be tempting to post a link to your wedding website on your social media accounts right away, we strongly advise against it. Sharing your wedding details with all of your web-based followers and friends often leads to confusion about who is and isn’t invited to your big day. Instead, modern etiquette suggests that you share your website with your guests via your [wedding invitation](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) (and save the dates, if applicable). For more information on how to include your wedding website on your invitation, keep reading. 

Just getting started? Check out our step-by-step guide on [how to make a wedding website](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-make-a-wedding-website). 

## Why to Include Your Wedding Website on Your Invitation
Including a link on your invitation is the easiest and most common way to share your website with your guests. Traditionally, the wedding invitation suite includes a few different enclosure cards to relay critical information to guests. While that’s still an option, many modern couples have opted to forego multiple enclosure cards and instead direct guests to their website to learn need-to-know wedding details, such as hotel recommendations and registry information. In addition to communication wedding details, the wedding website may be included on the invitation for the following reasons: 

__1. To Collect RSVPs Online__ — Many couples choose to collect online RSVPs rather than have their guests fill out paper response cards. That’s because sites like Zola make it easy to gather RSVPs through your wedding website and [manage the guest list](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) with real-time updates and easy-to-use tracking tools. 

__2. To Share Registry Information__ — In the past, registry etiquette dictated that the registry only be shared by word of mouth. The digital age has rendered that rule outdated, and it’s now considered standard to share where you’re registered on your wedding website. Including your website URL on your invite makes it easy for guests to find your registry without hassle. 

## How to Include Your Wedding Website on Your Invitation
Now that we’ve covered *why* to share your wedding website on your invitations, let’s talk about *how* to include your wedding website on your invitation without sacrificing aesthetic appeal or committing an etiquette faux pas. 

In general, when sending out the [formal wedding invitation](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop/formal), guests appreciate having the wedding website information all in one place. Wedding etiquette insists that you don’t include your website on the invitation directly, but if you do choose to share it on the formal invitation, add the website to the bottom of the invitation. Wedding save the dates and enclosure cards are also a great place to share your wedding website with guests. You can do this by either:

- Adding your wedding website URL
- Adding a QR code

Let's explore these different options for how you can share your wedding website on your invitation.

[![Zola QR Code Promo](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5hYJyrZbdCbVYf8gL8ZRtq/1abe728cdf14a9b3e0e0ade433128c67/EA_Article__1_.jpg)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) 

### Save The Dates
Although your [wedding save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) are sent out in advance of your invitations, they’re still a part of your invitation suite and the most popular choice for sharing the wedding website URL with guests as quickly as possible. 

__Where:__ If you make your save the dates using a pre-made design online, then the template will guide you on where exactly you should list your wedding website link. It varies by design, but in most cases, it’s listed on the back of the save the date or at the bottom of the front side. If you’re working with an invitation designer or making your own, where you place the URL is up to your personal preference. If you opt for a QR code, placing it on the back of your save-the-date would be ideal.

__When:__ Send save the dates 4-6 months before your wedding date. 

### The Formal Invitation 
Although some wedding experts believe it’s bad decorum to include your wedding website on your invitation, we’re of the opinion that it’s okay if you’re collecting RSVPS through your site in lieu of response cards. Just keep in mind that unless the link serves a purpose other than broadcasting where guests can buy you gifts, that it may be considered poor etiquette to share your wedding website on your invitation. 

__Where:__ At the bottom of your invitation. Some wording examples:
- “For more information, please visit [URL]”
- “Kindly RSVP by [RSVP deadline] at [URL]”

If you opt to add a QR code instead, adding it to the back of the invite is best.

__When:__ Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. 

### The Enclosure Card(s) 
Your other option is to include your wedding website URL on an enclosure card (an additional piece of your invitation suite used to communicate additional details to your guests). While there are many types of enclosure cards, these three are used to point guests to your website: 

- __RSVP Card__ — If guests should RSVP online via your wedding website and you don’t want (or have the space) to include these instructions on your invitation, an option is to include an RSVP card with instructions on where, when, and how guests should accept or decline your invitation online. 
- __Details Card__ — To communicate multiple pieces of information with guests on one card, many couples prefer to enclose a details card with their invite. This card may list your website, travel information, requested attire, and other fine points that your guests should know before the wedding day.
- __Wedding Website Card__ — A final option is to add a wedding website card to your invitation suite. This card serves the sole purpose of sharing your website URL and is a great choice for couples who want their invitation to maintain a formal tone while also taking advantage of modern tech conveniences. 

An Expert Guide to Wedding RSVP Cards & Complete Stationery Packages

How to Include Your Wedding Website on Your Invitation

Find guidance on legal aspects of getting married and planning a wedding like changing your name, marriage certificates, wedding venue insurance, wedding vendor contracts and more.

We breakdown all of the must-know wedding planning tools to help make planning your wedding seemless. Discover articles on tools that help you keep track of your budget, guest list, RSVPs, gifts, and more. Learn which tools to use and how best to use them to create the wedding you envision, stress-free.

When it comes to wedding planning, there are a lot of big pieces you figure out quickly. Of course, things get a bit more complicated as you start to nail down the hundreds of details that need your attention. Don’t worry! Everything is going to come together to create your dream wedding. Here are a few often-overlooked small wedding details to remember for before, on, and even after your wedding. 

## Top 10 Wedding Details to Remember

### 1. Create a wedding website (before you send out invitations). 
Your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) will act as a hub where your guests can get important information about your wedding day. This is where you can include all the additional info that doesn’t fit on your wedding invitations—think directions to the venue and links to your registry. Of course, you need to include the URL on your actual physical invitation, so start with the website first and foremost.

### 2. Leave enough time for dress alterations.
Wedding dress alterations are a bit more involved than say tailoring a pair of pants. You may have up to three or four fittings before your day, all spaced out over a few months. Depending on your wedding timeline, plan to leave enough time to get them all done so you can have the perfect fit. 

Once you [find your dress](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop), you’ll know right away how many alterations need to be made. Head to a seamstress soon after that to gain a clear understanding of just how much time your overall alterations will take—and plan from there.

### 3. Arrange transportation.
Depending on where your ceremony and reception take place, you may require various forms of transportation. Typical wedding transportation situations include:

- Getting your wedding party from the ceremony to the photo locations to the reception
- Getting your wedding guests to the ceremony and/or to the reception
- Getting all your wedding guests back to accommodations post-ceremony

You may not need all these lines of transportation, but you’ll likely need at least some. Don’t forget to set up party buses, limos, or drivers for cars. If nothing else, offer to arrange Ubers and Lyfts so no one has to worry about drinking and driving. Then, be sure to include all of this transportation information on your wedding website so guests know how they’ll get to point A, B, and maybe C.

### 4. Buy gifts for your wedding party.
It’s your day, of course, but not without the help of your loyal wedding party. It’s customary (while not required) to give small tokens of appreciation in the form of gifts for everyone in your wedding party, including the maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, and ring bearer. 

According to Zola's 2026 Registry & Gifting Survey (n=656), more than 6 in 10 couples (61%) plan to or did give their wedding party a gift. And the most popular picks go well beyond the generic. Personalized accessories like custom bags or robes topped the list (chosen by 62% of gift-givers), followed closely by getting-ready items like eye masks and skincare (55%), and jewelry — including personalized pieces (51%). Custom keepsakes and matching sets are also popular for couples who want every detail to feel intentional.

As for budget, the sweet spot for most couples (63%) falls between $25 and $99 per person — plenty of room for something meaningful. Whatever you decide on, order early. Personalized items take time, and you'll want a moment to wrap each gift and tuck in a handwritten note before the chaos of wedding week kicks in.

### 5. Coordinate vendor meals. 
Your vendors are going to be working away while you’re enjoying your wedding day. Ask your coordinator or venue about vendor meals ahead of time. They can usually provide boxed sandwiches or something similar so everyone will stay fed and happy. 

### 6. Hand out vendor tips. 
We know you’re hyper-focused on your budget—and we’re sure you heard to budget tips for your vendors into your overall cost. Good! Get cash out or prepare checks ahead of time and put everything in clearly marked envelopes for each vendor, like your caterer, bartender, and florist (that you haven’t already tipped). Then, assign a wedding party or family member to distribute day-of.

![inline PhotoByBrandyAngelPhotography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2PCKsaTQLroHQl2zC2sf0c/4ef44793547697e2494b1769b3d1996f/inline_PhotoByBrandyAngelPhotography.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Brandy Angel Photography

### 7. Check if the venue has disability access.
You want all your guests to arrive safely and comfortably. As you’re venue hunting, ask if each location has disability access. This will make or break an early-on decision about where you’ll host your ceremony, reception, or both. Your dream venue should be one where all your guests of all ages and abilities can easily access. 

### 8. Prepare a plan B for bad weather. 
If you’re hosting an outdoor wedding, you’re in for a beautiful wedding with nature as your scenic backdrop. That said, you’re also potentially in for some elemental troubles. There are a number of outdoor wedding issues to account for and you need to be prepared with a plan B in the case of rain, or worse. Your venue and vendors should be able to assist you with coming up with a plan of action (or defense).

Check out our [guide to common outdoor wedding problems](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/10-common-outdoor-wedding-problems-and-how-to-solve-them)—and their solutions, too. 

### 9. Add yourself to your catering order guest count.
You’re going to be busy, busy, busy on your wedding day, but you still need to eat! If you’re having a seated dinner, don’t forget to include yourself and your partner when you give the caterers a final headcount. Place your orders like any other wedding guest to make sure your food is ready when you need it most.

### 10. Make a “Do Not Play” list for the DJ.
If you [chose a wedding DJ over a wedding band](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choose-wedding-band-or-dj), you have some extra liberty around what gets played at your wedding—and what doesn’t. Ahead of your wedding day, sit with your partner and put together a “do not play” list. Review it with your DJ and feel confident that you’ll skip the line dancing you so loathe.

## More Wedding Details You Can't Miss
Still need direction on the planning process? Here are some more little details you'll definitely want to add to your [wedding planning checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)

### 11. Organize transportation for yourselves.
While you’re setting up transportation options for your guests and wedding party, don’t forget yourselves. Decide as a couple how you want to exit your ceremony and your reception. Many couples want total privacy to and from their various locations. Others may choose to leave their ceremony in a fancy car or carriage but hop on the party bus with everyone post-reception. It’s up to you entirely—just be sure to make the arrangements. 

All the small wedding details may feel like a lot, but with careful planning, it will all be worth it when you see your vision come together on your big day.

### 12. Book your officiant.
If you want your wedding to be official, you need someone who can legally marry you—or, in other words, your officiant. If you're having a friend or family member act as your officiant, make sure to let them know in advance so they have enough time to get certified—and if you're hiring an officiant, make sure to book them far before your wedding day, as many book up months ahead of time.

### 13. Secure your rentals.
Some reception venues come with everything you need to pull off your big day. But others require you to secure rentals—and if that's the case, you'll want to check that off your to-do list well before your wedding. Ask your venue what you'll need to rent (for example, linens, napkins, tables, or chairs)—and then ask if they have any rental vendors they can recommend so you can reserve what you need.

### 14. Plan your accessories.
Chances are, you're not going to forget your dress. But it can be easy to forget the smaller details of your wedding style, like your shoes or jewelry. Once you pick your wedding dress, make sure to plan out your accessories and buy them in advance so they're ready to go on your big day.

### 15. Buy family gifts.
Some couples like to buy their gifts for their families as a "thank you" for helping with wedding planning—and if you're one of those couples, you'll want to add gift shopping to your to-do list.

According to Zola's 2026 Registry & Gifting Survey, 43% of couples gave gifts to their own parents or family members, and nearly 1 in 3 (31%) did the same for their partner's family — a small but meaningful way to say thank you for everything leading up to the big day. If that feels right for you, add gift shopping to your to-do list early. It's one of those things that's easy to deprioritize and then scramble at the last minute.

### 16. Pack flats for the wedding reception.
Some people do well in heels. Others...not so much. If you struggle to walk in heels—but you're set on walking down the aisle in them—make sure to secure another, more comfortable pair of shoes for the reception (like a pair of ballet flats or sandals). That way, you can get out and enjoy the dance floor—without the discomfort of too-high heels.

### 17. Order your guest book.
Many guest books are custom made to order—so if you're planning to have a guest book at your wedding, make sure to order it well in advance.

### 18. Confirm food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Most wedding caterers will offer alternative meals for guests with allergies or dietary restrictions (for example, vegan guests)—but only if you let them know ahead of time. Make sure to collect any dietary information from your guests on their RSVP cards—and relay that information to your caterer by their deadline.

![INLINE PhotoBySaraRieth-RomanticStorytelling](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EFmHosxTPsGYIJYEHxJNJ/00cc7a674ad9c2e60436b4e00d29c286/INLINE_PhotoBySaraRieth-RomanticStorytelling.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Sara Rieth

### 19. Write (and print!) your vows.
If you're planning to write your own vows, you actually have to plan for it; otherwise, you may get caught up in other wedding tasks—and find yourself frantically writing your "I do's" the night before your big day. Schedule a few blocks of time on your calendar the month before your wedding to write your vows; then, schedule a time the [week of your wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) to make any necessary changes or edits. And don't forget to print out a copy!

### 20. Assemble an emergency kit.
Hopefully, nothing will go wrong on your wedding day. But if it does, you want to be prepared! Assemble an emergency kit filled with items to tackle any potential wedding day mishaps, like a sewing kit, a stain remover pen, and extra deodorant.

### 21. Order "getting ready" food.
If you and your bridal party are planning on getting ready together the day of your wedding, you'll want to have food on hand—and you'll want to order that food in advance. Consider getting brunch delivered—or, if that's not an option, designate a friend or family member to pick up food and bring it to your getting ready location. And don't forget drinks!

### 22. Book your hotel block.
If you have guests coming from out of town, they're going to need hotel rooms. Many hotels will block off rooms and offer a discounted rate for weddings—so make sure to do your research, choose your hotel, and book your room block at least a few months before your wedding.

### 23. Assemble welcome bags.
You want your out-of-town guests to be comfortable—and welcome bags are a great way to do that. The week before the wedding, carve out time to assemble welcome bags with snacks, drinks, and other wedding favors to make your guests comfortable; then, deliver the bags to the hotel and ask them to put them in your guests' rooms before they arrive.

### 24. Set a point person to help with wedding photos...
Your wedding photographer likely has a list of shots they'd like to capture on your big day—many of which involve other family members, members of the wedding party, or loved ones. But your photographer doesn't know who those people are—so you'll want to put someone (like a trusted friend) in charge of rounding up who your wedding photographer needs, when they need them.

### 25. ...and to ensure nothing gets left behind.
At the end of your wedding, chances are, you're going to be exhausted. But you don't want to leave anything behind at the venue, so make sure to put someone (again, like a trusted friend or a wedding coordinator, if you have one) in charge of doing a sweep at the end of the night. If anything gets left behind, ask them to grab it and get it to you in the days following the wedding.


wedding couple celebrates small wedding details

25 Small Wedding Details You Don't Want to Forget

Planning your wedding decorations and theme just might be the best part. Whether you're searching for beautiful ceremony backdrops, color palette inspo, or unique and trendy ideas, you'll find the inspiration you need to create a picture-perfect celebration.

On average, wedding decorations can range from $2,000 to $10,000. This average decor budget can include flowers, centerpieces, ceremony decor, and more. With that in mind, the average cost of wedding decorations can vary greatly, depending on where you’re getting married and how opulent you want to go. For a bare-bones DIY wedding ceremony in a natural setting like the beach, you might spend as little as $500, but if you’re hosting an over-the-top event in a large city venue, you could be looking at a bill of $20,000 or more. 

## How Much Do Wedding Decorations Cost? 
For an outdoor wedding, expect to spend $200 to $3000 for the ceremony and $1,000 to $15,000 for the reception. Indoor weddings are a bit pricer, costing an average of $500 to $5,000 for the ceremony and greatly varying for the reception. To get an idea of how much the decorations will cost you, be sure to tally up everything carefully. This includes everything from the ceremony [floral wedding arch](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-do-wedding-arches-with-flowers-cost), to string lights, to floral centerpieces. (Ask your [wedding planner](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-planner) or venue coordinator for an itemized list of wedding decor costs, so there are no surprises.) And don’t forget to include any labor costs associated with setup and breakdown.

To give you a better ballpark, here’s a closer look at the average cost of wedding decorations.

### Average Wedding Decor Costs

These numbers can vary widely depending on how many guests you’re having, where you’re getting married, and how much you’ve budgeted for decor. With that in mind, average wedding decor costs include:

- Flowers: $500 to $12,000
- Centerpieces: $50 to $500 per table
- Tablecloths or runner: $20 to $80 per table
- Chargers: $8 to $10 each
- Lighting: $200 to $5,000
- Candlesticks: $10 each
- Photo booth backdrop: $100 to $1,500
- [Welcome sign](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-welcome-sign-ideas): $10 to $50
- Aisle runner: $30 to $200
- Ceremony arch: $75 to $1,000 (with flowers)

Check in with your wedding venue about decor, too. See if any of the costs noted above—like tablecloths or chargers—are already included in your wedding package. You can also look online for recycled wedding decor and DIY some of these decorations yourself.

### The Cost of Decorating an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

Planning to tie the knot in a beautiful setting outdoors? One of the top benefits is that a lot of the decor is likely already in place. (Thanks, mother nature!) Whether it’s the swaying palm trees on the beach or the evergreens in the woods, the setting will speak for itself—all you need to do is enhance it.

You’ll still need to rent chairs, which you can decorate with simple sashes or ribbons. And you may want an aisle runner and an arch to say your vows under. Keep flowers simple and, if you need extra lighting, add candles, twinkle lights, or lanterns.  

To decorate an outdoor wedding ceremony, expect to spend: $200 to $3,000.

### The Cost of Decorating an Outdoor Wedding Reception

![Average Cost of Wedding Decorations](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/46u5rWHC0OLMqqHP507A0A/010a1000866e995c9b9d0215944e1334/inline_unsplash__1_.jpg)
*Photo Credit //* Unsplash

How much it’s going to cost to decorate your outdoor reception depends on what type of amenities are already in place. It will also depend on how many guests you have and how much decor you want. For example, if you’re renting a large tent or dining outdoors after dark, you may have to pay for bistro and/or string lights so guests can see. These may cost up to $3,000 to install professionally. You may also want paper lanterns, flowers, tablecloths, chandeliers, candles, and other [wedding reception lighting](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/lantern-wedding-centerpieces-to-light-up-your-wedding).

To decorate an outdoor wedding reception, expect to spend: $1,000 to $15,000.

### The Cost of Decorating an Indoor Wedding Ceremony
For an indoor wedding ceremony, you may want to add an arch, flowers, aisle runner, candles, lanterns, or other decor. These elements can help add some ambiance to an otherwise plain room. But if you are getting married in a beautiful church, mosque, or temple, you may not need much in terms of decorations. (Just let these beautiful venues speak for themselves!)

To decorate an indoor wedding ceremony, expect to spend: $500 to $5,000, depending if you’re going DIY or all out with the decor.

### The Cost of Decorating an Indoor Wedding Reception
Indoor receptions may take place in a ballroom, restaurant, historic building, or even a museum. Consider the location and ambiance before you decide on any decorations, and ask to see photos from other weddings at the space, so you can get an idea of what decor you need. For example, some rooftop venues with a view may require less decor than a hotel ballroom that’s a completely blank space.

To decorate an indoor wedding reception, the cost will [vary, depending on how much decor is required and what your wedding budget allows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget).

### The Cost of Cultural Wedding Decoration

Cultural and religious decorative elements are another cost to factor into your wedding budget. Some examples are listed below.

Chuppah for Jewish ceremony: $350 to $1,500
Varmala (or Jaimala) garlands for an Indian wedding: $60 to $200
Red paper lanterns for a Chinese wedding: about $25 for 20 lanterns
Papel Picado flags for a Mexican wedding: about $5 per bunting

Looking for more decor inspo? Visit [Zola’s Expert](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/decor-inspiration) Advice for all the ideas you’ll need.

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