The Etiquette of Hosting a Friday Wedding
There are so many reasons why a couple might decide to get married on a Friday night: the pricing is generally more affordable, they have their hearts set on a certain venue but every Saturday night was booked, more vendors are available, or they want to break with tradition. If you're in this boat, here are a few tips that'll make your Friday wedding a success.
EASY WAYS TO COMMUNICATE IMPORTANT INFO TO WEDDING GUESTS
Send save-the-date cards.
Giving family and friends plenty of notice that they may have to take time off from work is a thoughtful gesture. Mail the cards up to a year ahead. To make certain they understand the wedding is on a weekday, write "Friday, September 15, 2017" and not just "September 15, 2017."
Set the ceremony for a reasonable time.
An afternoon wedding will mean that even local guests may have to take time off from work rather than leave a little early. Starting at 5:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. is more crowd-pleasing since it will give long-distance travelers more time to arrive as well as give local loved ones time to get ready after work.
Understand guests many need to skip the ceremony.
Although your vows are the high point of the day, many guests will opt out of watching you say "I do" because of work or travel reasons. While you don't want to send the message that you approve of no-shows, don't criticize them, whether it's a week before the wedding or when they only show up for the reception. Use your time and energy to focus on who's there, not who isn't.
Schedule a day-after brunch.
It's a nice way to say thanks. But don't plan on your friends and family lingering. While some might, many will want to leave to enjoy the rest of the weekend.
