The team at the Shearwater Hotel, Ballinasloe are all about weddings, so to celebrate their wedding showcase which takes place this Sunday, November 13, they wanted to share some great tips they have learned over the years. What can guests do to help make the day extra special?
Wearing black or white
Black used to be a big no-no. However, etiquette expert and online wedding planner Diane Gottsman says: "As long as you don't show up as if you're going to a funeral, you're totally fine". She suggests wearing a light, breezy black dress, especially if you're on your way to a summer wedding. You can liven up the all-black look with some killer shoes and playful jewellery.
"Traditionally, you would not wear white. White and ivory should be left for the bride - that still holds true today. Of course, you can wear a dress with some white in it, or have white somewhere within your outfit, but you shouldn't plan to show up wearing an all-white ensemble," says Diane.
Photos
Now that everyone's phone takes great photos, snap to your heart's content but remember don’t trump the bride. Make sure you know what the bride and groom like, and enquire as to whether they have set up specific social media platforms to upload pictures and videos. Many couples are now using websites such as www.wedpics.com, where guests can view and order pics.
Most couples hire a professional photographer to help them get the best shots on the day, so try not to get in the way of the photographer. If you have taken an unflattering shot of the bride don’t post it, and when photographing children make sure you have permission to post them online.
Gifts
The majority of Irish couples feel it is too forward to give tips on what gifts they would like. If you buy a gift, give a gift receipt just in case it is not suitable or not to their taste. Monetary gifts remain a safe bet as couples have a honeymoon to pay for and a future to build!
Enjoy the day
Many weddings are a two-day affair, and costs can include accommodation, outfits, gift, beauty, hair, babysitters, and spending money. It takes a lot of effort to get there and the bride and groom will have spent endless hours orchestrating a fantastic day. Allow yourself enough time, space, and budget to enjoy it!
Join the team at the Shearwater Hotel, Ballinasloe this Sunday for their Wedding Showcase from 11am-2.30pm, and see how the hotel would be the perfect venue for your special day. To make an appointment call (090 ) 9630400, and be entered into a draw to win over €2,000 worth of added extras.
