Modern Wedding Decorum
Planning a wedding in Canada involves more than just booking vendors and setting a date. Good etiquette helps your celebration feel warm, inclusive, and well-organized — and it spares your guests (and yourself) a lot of stress. This guide breaks down modern Canadian wedding etiquette so you can host with confidence, ease, and style.
Invitations and RSVPs — Set the Tone Early
Send Invites 6–8 Weeks in Advance
For Canadian weddings, the standard timeline is to mail invitations 6–8 weeks before the big day. Include all key details: date, time, venue, dress code, and RSVP deadline.
Make RSVPs Easy
Give guests 3–4 weeks to respond. Include a pre-addressed RSVP card or share a direct link to your wedding website with clear instructions.
Dress Codes — Help Guests Get It Right
Use Familiar Canadian Terms
- Black Tie/Formal: Tuxedos and floor-length gowns
- Semi-Formal: Suits, cocktail dresses
- Casual: Dress shirts, sundresses, stylish separates
If Cultural Attire is Welcome, Say So
Encouraging traditional or cultural clothing? Mention it in your invitation suite or wedding website with a short, respectful explanation.
Gift Etiquette in Canada
Registries Are Still Useful
Offer a variety of price points. Share registry links only through your wedding website, not directly on the invitation.
Cash is Acceptable (and Common)
Many Canadian couples opt for cash or honeymoon fund registries. Just don’t specify an amount — let guests decide what feels right.
Ceremony Etiquette — Start Strong
Start On Time
A late ceremony ripples through your whole timeline. Ask guests to arrive 15–30 minutes early.
Consider an Unplugged Ceremony
Phones interfere with your photos. A gentle ask — and a sign at the entrance — works wonders. Read: Why You Might Want an Unplugged Wedding
Reception Etiquette — Be a Thoughtful Host
Plan Your Seating Strategically
Group guests who’ll enjoy each other. Note allergies and accessibility needs in advance.
Prep Your Toasts
Keep speeches under five minutes. Traditionally, parents, the maid of honour, and best man speak — but you can make it your own. Here is some advice you can share with those guests who are preparing toasts: The Ultimate Canadian Wedding Guest Etiquette Guide: How Not to Be That Guest
Alcohol Dos and Don’ts
In Canada, cash bars are often frowned upon. If budget is tight, offer drink tickets or a small hosted selection.
Tipping Your Wedding Vendors — What’s Customary in Canada?
- Hair & Makeup: 15–20%
- Catering Staff: $20–$50 per person
- Officiant: $50–$100 (unless already paid)
- Photographer/Videographer: $50–$200
Thank-You Notes — Don’t Skip Them
Send handwritten thank-you cards within three months. Mention the specific gift, and for cash, simply thank them for their generosity.
Final Thought: Kindness Over Rules
Etiquette isn’t about strict rules — it’s about creating a joyful, respectful experience for everyone involved. Plan thoughtfully, communicate clearly, and lead with kindness.
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