Congratulations!  You’re engaged! 

What should you do next?  After you have had that glass of celebratory champagne, go out and buy as many bridal magazines as you want (you know you have been dying to ever since you found the person you wanted to marry).  Then, after the champagne and magazines, pick up a copy of Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette from your local bookstore.  This etiquette book by the queen of etiquette herself, Emily Post, is currently in its 5^th edition, written by Peggy Post, and retails for  $27.95.  This is hands down, the only book you will need to help you tackle all your wedding planning questions.

I’ll be the first to admit that etiquette often has a stuffy and old school reputation, but it is completely undeserved.  Etiquette is simply a way to make sure you do not offend anyone.  Even though you will not be required to adhere to the same strict rules the future Princess Catherine will have too, it is helpful to know what people expect of you when you are planning a wedding, whether large or small.  Knowing the rules, even if you intend to break them, will always be helpful.  Weddings are stressful enough without having to guess which order the wedding party enters or what the difference between a response card and an escort card is.  This is where Peggy and Emily Post come in.  This tome of wedding etiquette covers everything in its 22 chapters from what order and how you should share your happy “we’re engaged” news to a traditional expenses breakdown list, as well as tips and advice on selecting gowns, veils, editing the guest list and more.  Far more than just a typical “rule” book, Wedding Etiquette also contains helpful advice for reducing stress and even a chapter dedicated to after the wedding.

During my engagement, I consulted my Wedding Etiquette edition several times.  The chapters are laid out well and a detailed table of contents and index make finding a quick reference incredibly easy.  Read this book front to back or consult it for a quick tip or reminder (Yes, two doctors that are married should have their envelope addressed The Drs. Smith).  Even after my engagement, I continue to consult this book.  I have the honor of being most of my friends “etiquette expert” and often will receive calls asking me an etiquette question.  When my best friend was married, I was able to use this book even more.  Chapter 10 on “Wedding Celebrations” is incredibly helpful for planning bridal parties for your friends or family and I can’t wait until I can consult page 383 for planning my vow renewal ceremony.  (Emily and Peggy do not leave you at the altar.)

Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette is a classic book that deserves a spot on the shelf of anyone involved in planning a wedding.  It would make a thoughtful gift for the bride or groom to be too. It is the perfect, non-preachy book to help you plan your wedding elegantly and with class.  The Post family won’t leave you with just the etiquette book though; check out their entire line of wedding books for everything from a physical planner to a book just for mom.

Check out the Emily Post Website for more information. 
http://www.emilypost.com/wedding