Wedding Glossary
From RSVP to sweetheart table, learn the essential wedding terminology you need to plan your celebration with confidence. 37 terms defined.
Best Man
The groom's chief attendant and closest support person
Bouquet Toss
Tradition where the bride throws her bouquet to unmarried guests
Boutonniere
A small floral arrangement worn on a lapel
Bridal Shower
A pre-wedding party to celebrate the bride with gifts
Cash Bar
Bar service where guests pay for their own drinks
Ceremony
The formal service where the couple is legally married
Champagne Toast
A celebratory toast with champagne honoring the newlyweds
Cocktail Hour
Social period between ceremony and reception with drinks and appetizers
Corsage
A small floral arrangement worn on the wrist or pinned to clothing
Day-of Coordinator
A professional who manages logistics on the wedding day
Destination Wedding
A wedding held in a location away from where the couple lives
Elopement
A small, intimate wedding with few or no guests
Escort Card
A card that guides guests to their assigned table
First Dance
The newlyweds' first dance together as a married couple
First Look
A private moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony
Garter Toss
Tradition where the groom throws the bride's garter to unmarried guests
Head Table
A long table for the wedding party at the reception
Maid of Honor / Matron of Honor
The bride's chief attendant and closest support person
Open Bar
Bar service where all drinks are paid for by the hosts
Place Card
A card at each seat indicating the assigned guest
Processional
The walk down the aisle at the start of the ceremony
Reception
The celebratory party following the wedding ceremony
Recessional
The walk back down the aisle after the ceremony concludes
Rehearsal Dinner
A dinner held the night before the wedding after the ceremony rehearsal
RSVP
A request for guests to confirm their attendance
Save the Date
An early notice sent to inform guests of the wedding date
Seating Chart
A visual display showing guest table assignments
Send-Off / Grand Exit
The couple's dramatic departure from the reception
Sweetheart Table
A small table for just the newlywed couple
Thank You Cards
Handwritten notes sent to guests after the wedding
Unity Ceremony
A symbolic ritual representing the joining of two lives
Vows
Promises exchanged between the couple during the ceremony
Wedding Favor
A small gift given to each guest as a thank-you
Wedding Party
The group of close friends and family who stand with the couple
Wedding Registry
A list of desired gifts created by the couple
Wedding Website
A personalized website with wedding details and RSVP tools
Welcome Party
A casual gathering for guests arriving before the wedding