Wedding etiquette continues to change
DEAR NATALIE: What is the etiquette for greeting the bride and groom at a wedding reception? It seems that the receiving line for the bridal party has disappeared. Should one wait for the bride and groom to visit one’s table, or should you try to greet them during the reception to offer congratulations and best wishes? Thank you. — FREQUENT WEDDING GUEST
DEAR FREQUENT WEDDING GUEST: Etiquette at weddings is getting harder to navigate as the old rules have given way to new ideas about how and when to do certain traditions. It can leave guests feeling a little befuddled as to when, or if, they should approach the bride and groom. Because the bride and groom usually take photos during the reception hour in between the ceremony and dinner portion of the wedding, finding a way to get to them may feel awkward. Try approaching the mother of the bride or groom and offer your congratulations. Then, ask when it would be appropriate to offer your well wishes to the happy couple. Usually they are flattered that you are asking for help, and they can guide you to the bride and groom much more easily than if you tried on your own (especially if it is a large wedding). If that doesn’t work, try approaching the bride and groom toward the end of the evening, after the cake cutting when things are settling down, so that you can send your warm wishes without interrupting their dinner.
DEAR READERS: When you start a relationship based on infidelity, it is hard to imagine it lasting for very long. As is the case with Mr. Shelton and Ms. Lambert, who met while he was married to another and went on to have a torrid, Hollywoodstyle affair that ended in heartbreak and marriage. There have been rumors plaguing this couple for months that their constant schedule conflicts keeping them apart are to blame for their demise. Then there is his supposed drinking, and her supposed flirting and the lack of common ground they once shared. At the end of the day, famous or not, a lack of physical contact eventually will cause a couple to drift. Seeing one another for a few days sprinkled throughout the month may work for those who have a strong foundation, but when your marriage is built on betrayal, it could make one wonder: Is he cheating? Is she hooking up with someone else? Moving forward, both parties need to decide what it is they want from future partners. It isn’t enough to love (and lust) in the moment. To have a chance at long-term happiness within a relationship, those involved must have the same vision for the future. And clearly their visions were not aligned.
Natalie’s Networking Tip of the Week: Don’t be afraid to ask for an introduction. If you are at an event with a friend and want to meet someone new, ask them to introduce you. Remember, none of us is in this alone, and any friend will be happy to be a point of contact.