January 15, 2025

Wedding Vocabulary

Get familiar with essential wedding terminology to make planning your big day easier. From ceremony music terms to reception details, this guide covers all the key wedding words you'll need to know.

Wedding Vocabulary

Planning a wedding comes with a whole new set of vocabulary that you might not be familiar with. From music selections to reception details, here’s a list of common wedding terms you’re likely to encounter while planning your big day.

Ceremony Terminology

  • Prelude: Soft, background music played as guests arrive and are seated before the ceremony begins.
  • Processional: The music played while the wedding party walks down the aisle.
    Popular Choices: "Canon in D" by Pachelbel, "Marry Me" by Train, "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri.
  • Recessional: Upbeat, celebratory music played as the couple exits the ceremony.
    Popular Choices: "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors, "This Will Be" by Natalie Cole, "Beautiful Day" by U2.
  • Postlude: Music that continues playing after the ceremony until all guests have left the area.

Other Wedding Terminology

  • Boutonniere: A small floral decoration worn by men, typically a single flower or bud.
  • Charger: A decorative plate placed on the table under the dinner plate or in place of a dinner plate, depending on the meal style (buffet or plated).
  • Corsage: A small bouquet worn by important women in the couple’s family, typically on the wrist or pinned to a dress.
  • Escort Cards: Cards that guide guests to their assigned tables at the reception, arranged alphabetically with the guest’s name and table number.
  • GOBO/Monogram: A laser-cut stencil placed over a spotlight to project a monogram or pattern onto the dance floor or walls during the reception.
  • First Look: A private moment before the ceremony where the couple sees each other for the first time. This allows for photos to be taken before the ceremony so the couple can enjoy the cocktail hour.
  • Head Table: A table where the couple sits with the wedding party or family members during the reception.
  • Place Cards: Cards indicating the specific seat at a table where each guest should sit, typically featuring only the guest’s name.
  • Table Number: Numbers or names displayed on each table to help guests find their seats. These should be easily visible from the entrance to the reception area.
  • Up Lighting: A lighting technique used to illuminate the walls with colored lights, changing the ambiance of a room by projecting a soft glow from the floor upwards.
  • Vendor Meal: A meal provided for each vendor (e.g., photographers, DJs) who will be present during your reception.
  • Sweetheart Table: A small table set aside for just the couple to sit together during the reception, allowing them to enjoy a moment alone while dining

Need More Help with Wedding Terms?

Are there other wedding terms you’re unsure about? Reach out and ask us! We love to help, and who knows—you might even teach us a new term or two!