Common wedding terms and what they mean

Arch: Structure that frames the ceremony space where you and your bride or groom will say “I do”. You can go for a traditional rectangular wooden arch or opt for a unique option like a floral hoop arch.

Banquet-style: Style of reception seating that features one or two long tables that seat most of your guests. Banquet-style tables provide a more intimate atmosphere than the traditional round table style.

Canape: One-bite appetizer that can be passed around at your cocktail hour, and a delicious way to tide your guests over before dinner. We recommend incorporating the local cuisine into your canapes!

Charger: Large and decorative plate that acts as the base for the rest of your tableware including plates, napkins and a menu card or place setting.

Cocktail reception: Short party in between your ceremony and formal reception, usually held for guests while the couple takes their wedding photos, with cocktails and passed appetizers or light bites.

Colour scheme: Combination of colours that you’ll use throughout your wedding décor, from the invitations to the linens and even the bridesmaids’ dresses.

Draping: Method of hanging fabric throughout your venues that adds a romantic feel to the space and makes a larger area (like a sprawling ballroom) feel more intimate. We love draping billowing chiffon from the arches of a beachside gazebo!

Escort cards vs. place cards: Both escort and place cards tell a guest where they’ll be sitting at a wedding. Escort cards direct guests to a table where they can choose their own seat, while place cards have guests assigned to specific seats at the table.

First look: Tradition where a wedding couple gets a first look at their significant other all dressed up for their big day right before the ceremony.

Golden hour: Magical photography time one hour before sunset (and one hour after sunrise), where the position of the sun in the sky provides the perfect lighting for your wedding photos.

Plated dinner: More formal style of reception dinner, where guests are served directly to their seat by waitstaff. This style of reception dinner has become a lot more popular following the pandemic.

Serpentine table: Type of reception table that winds and curves along in a twisted pattern. The unique design adds a whimsical feel to your reception space and looks gorgeous in larger outdoor venues.

Shot list: List of must-have photos and poses that you have agreed upon with your photographer ahead of time. This ensures you capture all the important moments that matter most to you on your big day!

Signature cocktail: Custom original drink made just for your wedding day. You can opt for your favourite cocktail or check out our recipes for the best signature drinks for your destination wedding.

Sweetheart table: Romantic spin on the traditional head table that seats just the newlyweds (instead of you and your wedding party). It’s a great way for you and your new spouse to soak in the moment together before getting swept up in the fun of your reception!

Tablescape: Beautiful table arrangement that includes your centrepieces, linens, plates, cutlery, place cards and any other décor.