My Fiance and I have been together many years. We are planning our wedding to take place in the backyard of our new home this summer. We want the wedding to be a fun, relaxed affair incorporating many of the great things we experienced at wedding we've attended over the years. One of the most beautiful weddings we attended was one where we all stood surrounding the couple as the exchanged vows - it made us feel a true part of the ceremony. Our yard is large (3/4 acre) but contains many gardens. The area we wish to be married is small, (the larger flat area will contain the reception tent) and we have close to 100 guests attending. We wanted to have seating for 50 in a open horseshoe and the remainder of our guest could stand (there is a very large deck overlooking the ceremony area as well). My programs will be homemade fans in the event it is a very hot day. I am being advised, by my sister, that it is rude to expect our guests to stand during the service. It is a civil service lasting 15 - 20 minutes. How should I respond to my sister and anyone else who views my request for guests to stand, as rude?
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on Nov 12, 2007, 4:03 PM)
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Feb 5, 2007, 10:33 AM
Post #2 of 3
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Re: [kmbrly] Seating Ediquette at Garden Ceremony
[In reply to]
Dear Kmbrly,
It could be considered rude by some, especially if older or mobility challenged guests aren't seated. In fact, some guests may seem perfectly healthy, but may have an illness that could tire them if they stand too long.
But, more than likely guests won't tire in that 15 to 20 minute period. If you included an enclosure stating that it will be a garden ceremony with limited seating, those with mobility problems would most likely plan well.
Re: [kmbrly] Seating Ediquette at Garden Ceremony
[In reply to]
Thank you for your response. I agree. My Fiance's family is very small (6 persons) and the aged or handicapped in my family will be taken care of - the rest of our guests are quite young so I did not see it a problem that there would be limited seating. Where would you suggest the notation of limited seating - as a small notation at the bottom of the invite?
Seating Etiquette at Garden Wedding Ceremony
