Tact Vs. Tacky

So he's asked you to marry him and you are excited to start planning your dream wedding. But along with the excitement comes the stress of pulling off the perfect wedding. Every time you are faced with a decision, you wonder if your choice will be the right choice. Should I go with the lace runner, or would that be tacky? Should I ask dad to make a speech, or is that tacky? No need to worry. Mama has compiled a list to help you plan the wedding of your dreams with tact, and avoid the tacky.

• When choosing floral arrangements, be sure to use fresh cut flowers. Even if you are working on a tight budget, a single flower and votive candles can go a long way. The Tacky alternative- silk, or dare I say it, PLASTIC flowers.


• Be sure your invitations illustrate your personal style and fit into the theme of your wedding. Keep the wording simple, but be sure to include all necessary information such as: the names of the bride & groom and their parents, the date and time of the event, and the name and address of the venue. It is also a good idea to include directions to the wedding, and a reply card for guests to RSVP. DO NOT put a request for monetary gifts on the invitation. That is tacky, tacky, tacky.


• You are inviting your friends and family to a party, and as guests they should not have to open their wallets. If you are serving alcohol at your wedding, a stocked top shelf bar is always great, but there are also some budget friendly alternatives, such as beer & wine service, or simply choosing one signature cocktail for your event. Whatever type of liquor service you choose, be sure you have your guests covered. There is nothing tackier than a cash bar!


• Brides & Grooms be wary of that bar. You may want to have a drink or two to ease the nerves, but be mindful of how much you drink. A drunk couple is a tacky couple.


• If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, be sure that you time the two events carefully. There is nothing worse than getting dressed up and attending a ceremony in the morning, only to realize that the reception isn't until much later in the day. Having your guests hang out at the local coffee shop to kill time before the reception is not only tacky, but gauche.


• If you decide to have an engagement party, be mindful of the time frame between the engagement party and the wedding date. Hosting a party for the same couple less than 6 months apart is extremely tacky!

Have you been to a wedding recently where you thought the Bride & Groom could use a little more tact, and a little less tacky? Write a comment and tell Mama about it!