Wedding Etiquette & Planning Questions Brides Ask Most and Answered

Planning a wedding comes with countless decisions, big and small. From traditions to timelines, etiquette to personal style, there’s a lot to think about. At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, we believe in helping our brides feel confident and informed every step of the way.

J. Major's bride on her wedding day

Here are answers to some of the most common (and often Googled!) wedding planning questions:

Who Lifts the Veil During the Ceremony?

Traditionally, if the bride wears a blusher veil over her face, the father of the bride lifts it when giving her away or the groom may lift it just before the kiss. In modern ceremonies, though, there are no hard rules.

✨ Alternatives:

• You can choose to walk down the aisle with the veil already back.

• Some brides opt to remove it altogether after the processional.

• Others let the groom lift it during a private moment at the altar.

Ultimately, it’s about what feels meaningful to you.

Do I Need a Rehearsal Dinner?

While not required, a rehearsal dinner is a lovely way to gather close family and your wedding party before the big day. It's especially helpful if your ceremony involves complex choreography or if guests are meeting for the first time.

Why couples choose to have one:

• Eases pre-wedding nerves

• Allows more intimate toasts

• Offers a chance to thank your inner circle

If you're having a smaller wedding or a casual celebration, you might opt for a welcome cocktail hour or a brunch instead.

What Are Some Unique Alternatives to Traditional Wedding Vows?

Modern couples are personalizing every part of their ceremony—and vows are no exception.

Here are some creative vow alternatives:

• Letter exchange before the ceremony (read privately)

• Joint vows: Speak your promises together in unison

• "Promise statements" read aloud by the officiant with your responses (like “We do.”)

• Song lyrics, poetry, or excerpts from favorite books

Just be sure your officiant and ceremony script allow room for your personal touch!

What’s the Etiquette for Wedding Gifts and Registries?

Creating a registry is not only helpful—it’s considerate. It gives your guests guidance on what you truly need or love.

Do's of registry etiquette:

• Register early and include items at multiple price points

• List 2–3 registry options (department store, local shop, or cash fund)

• Share the registry link through your wedding website, not your formal invitation

✨ Pro Tip: Don’t forget to send handwritten thank-you notes—ideally within 3 months of the wedding.

How Do I Change My Name After the Wedding?

If you’re planning to take your partner’s last name (or hyphenate), be prepared for a bit of paperwork.

Here’s a general step-by-step:

1. Get certified copies of your marriage license (you’ll need several).

2. Update your Social Security card with the SSA.

3. Change your driver’s license at the DMV.

4. Notify your employer, bank, credit card providers, insurance, passport agency, and more.

5. Consider using a name-change service (like HitchSwitch or NewlyNamed) to streamline the process.

Take your time—it doesn’t have to be done all at once.

Final Thoughts

Weddings are rich in tradition, but they’re also an opportunity to make your day your own. Whether you’re wondering who lifts the veil or how to write vows that feel like you, the most important rule is this: There are no rules that matter more than what feels right for you and your partner.

If you have more questions, stop by J. Major’s Bridal Boutique in Charlotte—we’re always here with thoughtful answers (and beautiful gowns).