Wedding terminology refers to the specific words and phrases that are commonly used in the context of planning and executing a wedding. These terms can include everything from the names of different parts of the wedding ceremony and reception, to the various elements of wedding décor and attire.
Knowing wedding terminology is important for couples, wedding planners, vendors, and anyone else involved in the planning or execution of a wedding. It helps ensure clear communication between all parties involved and makes it easier to coordinate and execute a successful event.
Appliqué
Appliqué is a decorative sewing technique where one piece of fabric is sewn on top of another to create a design or pattern. The term appliqué comes from the French word “appliquer,” which means to apply or to put on. This technique is commonly used in a variety of crafts, including quilting, clothing design, and home decor.
To create an appliqué design, the fabric is cut into a desired shape or design, and then sewn onto a base fabric using either hand stitching or machine stitching. The edges of the appliqué are then finished to prevent fraying and to give the design a clean, polished look.
There are several different types of appliqué techniques, including raw edge appliqué, turned edge appliqué, and fusible appliqué. Each technique produces a slightly different result and requires different tools and materials.
Raw edge appliqué is a technique where the appliqué fabric is simply placed on top of the base fabric and stitched around the edges. The edges are left raw, which can give the design a more casual or rustic look.
Turned edge appliqué, on the other hand, involves turning under the edges of the appliqué fabric and then stitching it onto the base fabric. This creates a clean, finished edge that gives the design a more polished and professional appearance.
Fusible appliqué is a technique that uses a special adhesive backing to attach the appliqué fabric to the base fabric. The appliqué is then fused in place using heat from an iron or pressing tool.
Black tie
Black tie is a dress code that is typically associated with formal events and occasions, such as weddings, galas, and other upscale social events. It is a level of formal dress that is more formal than semi-formal attire, but not as formal as white tie attire.
For men, black tie attire typically includes a black tuxedo jacket with satin lapels, matching trousers, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, black dress shoes, and optional accessories such as a cummerbund, suspenders, and cufflinks. The jacket and trousers should be made from high-quality materials, such as wool or silk, and should fit properly to create a streamlined and polished look.
For women, black tie attire can be a bit more flexible, but generally includes a formal gown or cocktail dress in a dark or neutral color, such as black, navy, or burgundy. The dress should be made from high-quality materials and should be tailored to fit the wearer’s body properly. Accessories can include jewelry, a clutch purse, and formal shoes.
Overall, black tie attire is a timeless and classic dress code that is appropriate for a wide range of formal occasions. By paying attention to the details and selecting high-quality garments and accessories, anyone can pull off the black tie look with style and elegance
Boutonniere
A boutonniere is a small floral arrangement worn by men, typically on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket, as a decorative accessory for formal occasions such as weddings, proms, or other special events. The word “boutonniere” is French, and it translates to “buttonhole” in English.
Traditionally, a boutonniere consists of a single flower or a small cluster of flowers and foliage, typically in a coordinating color to the wearer’s suit or the theme of the event. The most common flowers used in boutonnieres include roses, carnations, and orchids, although any type of flower can be used depending on personal preference.
Boutonnieres are usually attached to the lapel of a jacket using a floral pin, which is a small pin with a decorative head that matches the flower or the event’s theme. The boutonniere should be positioned on the left lapel, above the heart.
Bustle
A bustle is a style of draping or gathering the fabric of a dress or skirt at the back to create a raised appearance. The purpose of a bustle is to lift the train or hem of a dress off the ground, making it easier for the wearer to move around and preventing it from becoming soiled or damaged.
There are two main types of bustles: the overbustle and the underbustle. An overbustle gathers the fabric of the dress or skirt on top of the back of the garment, creating a draped effect. This type of bustle is typically achieved by attaching hooks, buttons, or loops to the dress or skirt, which can then be fastened together to create the desired shape.
An underbustle, on the other hand, gathers the fabric underneath the back of the dress or skirt, creating a more streamlined and subtle effect. This type of bustle is achieved by attaching ribbons or ties to the underside of the dress or skirt, which can then be tied together to lift the hem off the ground.
The type of bustle used will depend on the style of the dress or skirt, as well as the preferences of the wearer. Some dresses and skirts may require multiple bustle points to create the desired effect, while others may only require a single point.
Crudite
Crudite is a French term that refers to a platter of raw vegetables that are typically served as an appetizer or snack. The vegetables are usually cut into bite-sized pieces and arranged on a platter, and can be served with a dipping sauce or dressing for added flavor.
Common vegetables used for a crudite platter include carrots, celery, radishes, broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. These vegetables are chosen for their vibrant colors, crisp texture, and mild flavor, making them ideal for dipping and snacking.
In addition to vegetables, a crudite platter may also include other items such as olives, pickles, cheese, or crackers to add variety and texture to the dish. Dipping sauces or dressings can also be customized to suit individual tastes, and may include options such as ranch, hummus, tzatziki, or balsamic vinaigrette.
Event Designer
An event designer is a professional who specializes in creating and executing visually stunning and memorable events. This can include weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and other special occasions. Event designers work closely with clients to understand their vision and create a cohesive design plan that incorporates all aspects of the event, including decor, lighting, floral arrangements, furniture, and other design elements.
In addition to designing the overall look and feel of an event, event designers are also responsible for managing the logistics and coordinating with other vendors such as caterers, photographers, and entertainment. They ensure that all elements of the event are seamlessly integrated and that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.
First Touch
The first touch is a moment between the couple during their wedding day when they see each other for the first time before the ceremony. It is a private and intimate moment where the couple can connect and share their excitement, love, and emotions with each other.
Traditionally, couples would wait until the ceremony to see each other, but the first touch has become an increasingly popular option in recent years. It allows couples to have a private moment together before the ceremony, which can help to calm nerves, relieve stress, and create a more intimate and meaningful experience.
Floor plan
A wedding floor plan is a specific type of floor plan used in event planning to visualize the layout of a wedding venue. A well-designed wedding floor plan is essential to ensure that the venue is optimized for the flow of guests, the placement of furniture, and the overall ambiance of the event.
Flower wall
A flower wall is a decorative feature made up of a variety of flowers and greenery arranged in a cohesive pattern on a wall or freestanding panel. Flower walls are a popular choice for weddings, events, and photo shoots, as they create a stunning backdrop that can transform any space into a beautiful and memorable setting.
Flower walls can be made using a variety of different types of flowers, such as roses, hydrangeas, peonies, and orchids, as well as greenery such as eucalyptus, ferns, and ivy. The flowers and greenery are typically attached to a backing material, such as a sturdy wire frame or a wooden panel.
One of the main benefits of a flower wall is that it can be customized to suit any theme or color scheme. For example, a flower wall made up of pastel roses and peonies would be perfect for a romantic and whimsical wedding, while a flower wall made up of bright sunflowers and dahlias would be ideal for a rustic and bohemian-inspired event.
Gobo lighting
Gobo lighting is a type of lighting effect that is created by projecting a pattern or image through a special stencil, known as a gobo, onto a surface such as a wall, floor, or ceiling. The word “gobo” is derived from “go-between,” as it serves as a mediator between the light source and the surface on which the image is projected.
Gobo lighting is a popular choice for weddings, events, and stage productions, as it can be used to create a range of effects, from simple patterns and shapes to complex images and logos. Gobos can be customized with any design, including the names of the bride and groom, company logos, or themed patterns.
Head table
The head table is a prominent feature at many weddings and is typically where the bride and groom, along with their bridal party, sit during the reception. It is often placed at the front of the room, facing the guests, and is usually decorated with flowers, candles, and other decorative elements to create a visually stunning focal point.
The head table typically seats the bride and groom, their parents, and the bridal party. The placement of the head table can vary depending on the size and layout of the reception space, as well as personal preferences. Some couples prefer a traditional head table, where the bride and groom sit in the middle with the bridal party on either side, while others may opt for a sweetheart table, where only the bride and groom sit together.
Intimate wedding
An intimate wedding is a wedding ceremony and/or reception that is small in scale, typically with fewer than 50 guests. Intimate weddings have become increasingly popular in recent years, as couples look for more personalized and meaningful ways to celebrate their love.
Intimate weddings offer several benefits over larger weddings, including a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. With fewer guests, the couple is able to spend more time with each of their guests, which can lead to more meaningful interactions and memories. Additionally, an intimate wedding can be less stressful and more budget-friendly than a larger wedding, as it typically involves fewer logistics and expenses.
Mood board
A mood board is a visual tool used in event planning, design, and other creative fields to convey the desired mood, style, and overall aesthetic of a project or event. It is a collection of images, textures, colors, and other visual elements that are arranged together to create a cohesive and inspiring look and feel.
Creating a mood board is an important step in the event planning process, as it helps to communicate the desired style and aesthetic to all members of the planning team. By bringing together different visual elements in one place, a mood board can help to ensure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page and working towards the same vision.
Mood boards can be created using a variety of materials, including physical materials such as fabric swatches, paper samples, and photographs, or digital materials such as images found online or created using design software. The key is to choose elements that accurately represent the desired style and mood of the event.
Photo Booth
A photo booth is a popular addition to weddings, parties, and other events. It is a small, portable structure that allows guests to take fun and memorable photos with friends and family. Photo booths come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most common type is a small enclosed structure with a camera, lighting, and props.
When choosing a photo booth for an event, there are several factors to consider. These include:
Size: Depending on the size of the event, a larger or smaller photo booth may be more appropriate. Larger photo booths can accommodate more guests at once, while smaller booths may be more intimate and provide a more personalized experience.
Features: Modern photo booths may offer a range of features, such as customizable backgrounds, filters, and social media integration. Consider which features are important for the event and choose a photo booth that offers them.
Props: Many photo booths come with a range of props, such as hats, glasses, and signs. Consider the type of props offered and whether they align with the event’s theme or style.
Cost: Photo booths can range in cost depending on their features, size, and rental duration. Consider the budget for the event and choose a photo booth that fits within it.
Prelude
In the context of weddings and other formal events, the term “prelude” refers to a period of music played prior to the start of the ceremony. It is often used to set the mood and create a sense of anticipation among guests as they wait for the main event to begin.
During the prelude, musicians typically perform a selection of instrumental pieces, such as classical music or jazz standards. The pieces chosen may vary depending on the theme and style of the event, as well as the preferences of the couple or event planner.
The prelude typically lasts for around 15-30 minutes, and may be accompanied by other elements such as floral arrangements or lighting effects. It serves as a way to create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for guests as they arrive, and can help to set the tone for the ceremony as a whole.
Room Block
In the context of weddings and other events that require out-of-town guests, a “room block” refers to a group of hotel rooms that have been reserved in advance at a discounted rate. Room blocks are typically arranged by the couple or event planner in order to make it easier for guests to find affordable accommodations that are convenient to the event location.
Shot list
A “shot list” refers to a detailed plan or checklist of the specific shots that the photographer is expected to capture during the event. It serves as a guide for the photographer and ensures that all of the important moments and details are captured in a way that meets the expectations of the couple or event planner.
A shot list typically includes a mix of candid and posed shots, as well as details such as specific locations, people, or objects that should be captured. For example, the list may include shots of the bride getting ready, the groomsmen toasting, the first dance, and the cake cutting. It may also include shots of specific family members or guests, or details such as the wedding rings or centerpieces.
Creating a shot list is a collaborative process that involves communication between the photographer, the couple or event planner, and any other stakeholders. The list should be created well in advance of the event and should be revised as needed based on feedback from all parties involved.
Sweetheart Table
A sweetheart table is a special table reserved for the newlywed couple at a wedding reception. It is typically a small table that is set apart from the other tables, and is often positioned at the center of the room or at a prominent location where all the guests can see the couple.
The purpose of a sweetheart table is to give the newlyweds a private space where they can enjoy their first meal together as a married couple, while also allowing them to be the center of attention and easily visible to all of their guests.
Usher
An usher is a person who is responsible for escorting guests to their seats at a wedding ceremony or other formal event. Ushers are typically designated by the couple or event planner, and their role is to ensure that guests are seated in an organized and efficient manner.
Ushers are typically dressed in formal attire and are stationed at the entrance to the ceremony venue. As guests arrive, ushers greet them, check their invitations, and direct them to their seats. They may also assist guests with any special needs, such as seating arrangements for elderly or disabled guests.
Wedding Hashtag
A wedding hashtag is a unique phrase or keyword that is used to identify and organize social media posts related to a wedding. The hashtag typically includes the names of the bride and groom, as well as other relevant information such as the date, location, or theme of the wedding.
Creating a wedding hashtag has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows guests to easily share photos and memories of the wedding on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. By using the same hashtag, all of the posts related to the wedding can be easily searched and viewed in one place, making it a convenient way to capture and share moments from the big day.
Welcome Bag
A welcome bag is a gift bag or basket that is given to guests attending a wedding or other special event. The purpose of a welcome bag is to provide guests with a warm and hospitable welcome, as well as to thank them for attending the event.
Welcome bags typically include a variety of items that can be useful or enjoyable for guests during their stay. Some common items that may be included in a welcome bag include:
- Bottled water or other beverages
- Snacks, such as chips or candy
- Maps and local tourist information
- Small toiletries, such as travel-sized shampoo or lotion
- Personalized gifts, such as custom-made keychains or candles
- Schedule of events or itinerary for the weekend
Welcome bags can be customized to fit the theme or style of the wedding or event, and may also reflect the couple’s personality or interests. For example, a beach-themed wedding may include items such as sunscreen and flip-flops, while a winter wedding may include hand warmers or hot cocoa mix.