EXPERT Q& A
SOCIAL ANXIETY
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I’m an out-of-state bridesmaid who can’t attend the bachelorette party. Should I still be helping the maid of honor pay for it or any related expenses? Unlike a shower where there’s usually one host responsible for footing the bill, the bachelorette party is slightly different. It’s quite common (and totally acceptable) for the maid of honor (or party organizer) to ask for contributions. Maybe offer to contribute the amount the other bridesmaids will be paying, or at least a portion. If you’re off the hook for those costs, call ahead to one of the spots where the party will be and order a bottle of champagne or some other treat for the group—on you.
DANCING FEET
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My fiancé and I secretly love the “Macarena,” but will our guests hate us if we make them do it?
One of the reasons people aren’t the biggest fans of organized dances is the song seems to go on forever. If you have your heart set on doing the “Macarena,” play 60 seconds of it, then smoothly transition into 60 seconds of “YMCA” and cap it off with 60 seconds of the electric slide. Switching songs keeps fewer people on the sidelines without slowing down the party. Ask your DJ ahead of time if they can make this dance mix. Plus with you two having so much fun, guests will be happy to join in.
EXTRA HANDS
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Could I recruit my wedding party to help me put our favors together, or is that expecting too much from them?
Consider your squad before seeking help. Tying dozens of tiny bows might not be everyone’s idea of a good time. But you might have a few friends who are game to help. Use the task as an excuse to get together and sip champagne, or test out your signature cocktails. Everyone will have a better time if you turn ribbon tying into a fun hangout rather than a chore.
79% 32% 78% of brides have a bachelorette party
of weddings have a guest list of 101 to 150
TXTKRFW17 Sect 02 (017-032) [P]{TX}.indd 32
of couples provide favors for their guests
How soon do we have to have our wedding hashtag? It seems couples have them ready to post as soon as they’re engaged— are we late to the game if we don’t?
Couple hashtags are the best way to see all photos relating to your wedding festivities, but you certainly don’t have to be ready with one as soon as the ring is on your finger. While some to-be-weds may have found it fun or amusing to play around with different combinations of their names before they were even engaged (don’t worry—we won’t tell), it’s certainly not for everyone. You don’t even have to have a hashtag—but if you decide you do want one, don’t stress about creating it. Sometimes couples get lucky and have the perfect names for a fun play on words, but you can always use simple phrases like #SarahAndAshleyGetHitched2017 or #AndersonPartyOfTwo. Just check the hashtag before and make sure it doesn’t already have hundreds of photos attached. Tip: Adding the date always helps separate your hashtag from the rest.
SOMETHING OLD, AND NEW
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I don’t have any sentimental jewelry—what’s another option for a “something old”?
There are so many different ways to play with this tradition, so let your creativity run wild. Second dresses are much more common these days. You can wear your mother’s wedding dress for one half and a new gown for the other. If you would rather include a passed-down dress without actually wearing it, you could use the fabric to make a stunning clutch or chuppah, or place a nostalgic patch under your own skirt. An antique family car can be your getaway transportation, or you could use your parents’ wedding cake knife. And your bouquet can be wrapped in any heirloom fabric, from a close friend’s veil to a piece of a beloved grandmother’s favorite shawl. Or get innovative with your hair accessories. A vintage hairpin can be a nice touch or replicating your mother’s wedding hairstyle would make a lovely tribute.
JOIN THE KNOT EDITORS WEDDING WEDNESDAY Check out The Knot Facebook Live every Wednesday at 1 p.m. ET—we answer all your wedding-related questions.
BARRIE TOVAR; WEDDING STATISTICS FROM THE KNOT 2016 REAL WEDDINGS STUDY
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4/11/17 8:15 AM