Our budget is tight, and we were thinking about not having an open bar. Is this OK?

This is one of the more popular wedding etiquette and advice questions we hear brides ask. You have a few options other than a cash bar.

To cut down on costs consider offering only beer and wine at the reception. Other options include offering only champagne punch or a signature drink in addition to wine. Still not seeing enough savings? View our full list of tips & tricks to save money on your wedding bar.

We are having a wonderful wedding cake at the reception. Do we need additional dessert options?

It is perfectly fine to only serve cake according to wedding etiquette and advice rules. However, if you have the budget and desire, it is certainly acceptable to serve other types of dessert in addition to your cake.

Are favors necessary?

While wedding favors are not required, it is a nice gesture to send your guests home with something. Work within your budget, and try to come up with some parting gift.

It does not have to be expensive or elaborate. A DIY candy bar, for example, can be an inexpensive option that everyone usually likes.

Do we need to feed our vendors?

While every additional head adds to your budget the answer is yes, you do need to feed the vendors that are with you for the duration of the evening (usually this is your musician(s) and your videographer/photographer(s)). You can however save some money by serving your vendors off of a regular menu rather than serving them the wedding meal.

Is it necessary to have a champagne toast?

While a champagne toast can be a lovely touch it is certainly not necessary. Guests can simply toast you with whatever's in their glasses at the time.

We're offering a buffet style dinner instead of a more formal sit down. Should we still have assigned seating?

This is really a question of personal choice but generally guests feel more comfortable being directed where to sit rather than having to figure it out for themselves.