The simplest rule to remember about wedding etiquette is never say or do anything that might lead to even the slightest potential offence. The wedding is surrounded by tradition, many of which have been forgotten or replaced over time. This part is compiled to illustrate the expected protocol in certain situation, both traditionally and where applicable.

■The Bride

To nearly all the women, the wedding day is the most important day in their life. It is the day where, as the bride, she is rightfully the “star of the show’. She is instrumental in the organization of her day from start to finish. She would usually begin planning months in advance, even up to the day itself. She would participate in decision-making in almost every part of the wedding planning, from the dress to the flowers, the cake, the type and date of ceremony—and much more! The ability to organize whilst not offending others is a useful technique during planning. Don’t forget that the wedding is also a big day for both sets of parents. Parents will undoubtedly, appreciate any consultation and their advices may prove beneficial. Eventually, the couple have the final say on decision-making.

The bride and the groom would also greet guests at the reception.

■The Groom

Contrary to popular belief, the groom’s role in organizing a wedding extends far beyond deciding what to wear at the stag party and the acceptance of congratulatory drinks. The first is a small matter of an engagement ring to choose and buy. He has the joint responsibility in the major decisions, such as the choice of wedding reception, photographer and venue. His contribution would take some pressure off his bride-to-be. Then, with the help of his parents, he should compile the guest list for both the ceremony and reception, which would be presented to the bride’s mother after being finalized.

On the wedding day, the groom and his best man should arrive at the wedding venue about 20 minutes before the ceremony. He walks back up the aisle, following the signing of the register, with his new wife on his left, to begin the formal photographs. Then it’s onto the reception where the bride and groom prepare to greet their guests as they arrive. The groom is expected to introduce his new bride to relatives and friends who have not met her previously. Following the bride’s father’s speech, the groom should thank the bride’s parents for his “new bride”—and all those involved in the organization of the wedding. The speech should include a toast to the bridesmaids. After the speech and cutting of the cake, it’s time for the first dance. Traditionally, the groom should invite the bride’s mother to dance, the bride’s father would then take over, allowing the groom to dance with his bride.

■The Best Man and Bridesmaids

The role of the best man is to support the groom during the ceremony. It is a position of huge responsibility, which should not be offered or undertaken lightly. The best man’s duties include: issuing of orders of service; organizing the seating with the wedding venue; the transport from the ceremony to the reception; guests’ transport arrangements; the collection of wedding presents; making “best man” speech at the reception; reading out any telegrams and messages; “breaking down barriers” among the guests to ensure the party moves into full swing; arranging the stag party; and etc.

The chief bridesmaid (usually the bride’s sister or best friend) has a supporting role to the bride in much the same way as the best man’s role to the groom—but will not make a speech. Her duty is to assist the bride in getting dressed before and after the ceremony. She holds the bridal bouquet during the ceremony and is responsible for organizing the other bridesmaids. She will be escorted from the church by the best man.

■The Parents of Bride and Groom

Traditionally, the bride’s parents were “privileged” to pay for the majority of the wedding cost. Although today the cost may be distributed among both sets of parents and the couple themselves, there are still some other responsibilities on the bride’s parents. The bride’s mother has a crucial role in supporting her daughter with all her preparations. She should listen to and respect the bride’s wishes at every stage, even if these wishes don’t match her own.

There is no traditional role for the parents of the groom to carry out. Once it was an accepted obligation of the bride’s parents to meet all the wedding expenses. However, it has become common that the groom’s parents make a considerable financial contribution. Therefore, it is good manners to consult the parents of the groom and include them in as much of the planning as possible.

■The Page-boys and Flower-girls

Flower-girls may walk in front of the bride, scattering confetti or petals down the aisle. They can also carry posies, and distribute to the guests while they attending the procession.

Traditionally, the pageboys are responsible to carry the long bridal train. They may also carry the rings, on a cushion, to the altar.