The location of our ceremony only allows 20 chairs, but 100 people standing. It’s in a natural forest, so I understand no chairs on the grass. I’m not sure if we should go ahead and invite everyone to the wedding..standing room only..or just pick 20 of our close family and a few friends..My fiance says family only, but I’d like to have friends there that I am also close with. HELP! Lol -Veronica Zeigler

Dear Miss Zeigler,

Your venue sounds lovely and intimate. I’m certain your friends who would like to join in your special day will not mind standing for your ceremony.

If you open your list to all, consider the following two tips:
-Make sure the ceremony is not too long; guests should not be left standing for over 25 – 30 minutes.
-Be sure to reserve seats for those guests that absolutely need a seat.

If you are losing weight for the wedding and ordering a gown from a large supplier (like David’s Bridal), how long should you wait before the wedding to order it? Also, if you are consistently losing 10-15 lbs a month, should you plan to order a smaller size? – Natalie Sneed

Dear Miss Sneed,

Congratulations on your successful weight loss – this is never an easy issue to tackle.

Typically you should order your dress at a minimum of 6 months before the wedding, but I would double check with your dress shop to see what their specific policy is.

Regarding your dress size, beware of being overly zealous when projecting your weight loss when deciding what size to order. You can always take your dress in but rarely can you let it back out. Also, remember while some styles may be easily altered to accommodate the changes, some more intricate designs cannot. It’s best to consult with your planner or boutique to see how easy or hard changes to your dress will be.

I am having a destination wedding. I have 8 people in my bridal party and am expecting about 25 guests in total. If they are on the island, am I expected to invite everyone to my rehearsal dinner the night before? Or is it ok to just invite my bridal party and their significant others. -Kathy Betka

Dear Miss, Betka,

It sounds like a fun and intimate event you are planning. As such, consider your rehearsal dinner as an opportunity to create another fun event versus an obligation.

Yes, you are expected to invite everyone and should welcome the chance to have everyone together. If this is a matter of budget, consider scaling back or having dinner with the smaller group first and then an after-party.

what is the traditional wedding reception program? and what are traditional things you can do at the reception? -Diane John

Dear Miss John,
The standard events that always take place at a wedding include:
-Entrance
-Eating and Drinking
-First Dance, Father/Daughter Dance
-Cake Cutting
-Toasts
-Bouquet Toss
-Garter Toss

The manner in which you arrange these happenings is entirely a personal matter, but weddings typically follow the order I have listed here.

Whether it’s wedding etiquette questions, info on the latest styles and trends, or timeless advice, our in-house wedding designer William has the answers. Have a burning question about your big day? Send it to us at: info@mywedding.com or tweet it or Facebook us!

Photo by Kate Belle Photography. See the rest of Polly and Mick’s wedding.