Etiquette has consistently been sort of a touchy subject, particularly when it comes to weddings.
Weddings are usually filled with traditions and customs and the ceremony is no exception. So it's no wonder that individuals are nervous about what do to with the wedding minister. Due to the fact ministers deal with a world filled with religious customs and traditions, a lot of couples are afraid to directly ask sticky concerns and but they do not want to commit some etiquette faux pas. This is where I come in. As an insider, I'm here to aid couples navigate the globe of wedding minister etiquette.
Etiquette Question #1: Do we invite the minister to our rehearsal dinner? Commonly, an invitation to the rehearsal dinner is not needed even even though it is a thoughtful gesture. The exception to this would be if you've known the minister for a lengthy time or if the rehearsal dinner is getting held on church property, but even then it is additional of a friendly gesture and not a tough etiquette rule.
Etiquette Question #2: Do I invite the minister to our reception? This 1 is a small tricky. How do you tell the most fundamental person at your ceremony that they aren't welcome to remain for dinner?
Traditionally, it is appropriate to invite the minister to the reception, specifically if that individual has a special connection in your life. Generally speaking, most ministers do not anticipate to be invited to the reception unless they have identified the couple for a lengthy time and many will only remain for cocktails and/or h'or deourves.
Etiquette Question #3: Exactly where do we seat the minister? It's generally not required that the minister sit at the head table. Having them seated with your household, either parents, such as parents or grandparents, is a wonderful idea especially if they are affiliated with their church.
Etiquette Question #4: Do we tip the minister? It's straightforward to see why this is a concerns couples hate to ask. You sign a contract and pay deposits and fees just like any other vendor, but somehow it constantly appears strange tipping a minister like you would any other vendor. Tipping is in no way mandatory, it's to reward exceptional service. The minister's fee is all you're required to pay and that's all they anticipate from you. If you feel they have completed a wonderful service, really feel free of charge to add funds to an envelope to deliver to them just after the ceremony is finished. Once more, tipping is not needed or expected for the minister.
I hope that this clears up some confusion and helps every single couple navigate the wedding minister etiquette world a little superior. When in doubt, however, do not be afraid to ask your minister what they are comfy with. Do not forget that they deal with weddings all the time and although you may well feel strange asking, they are comfy answering.
