Photo Credit: Kayla Bowie
Photo Credit: Kayla Bowie

Planning a wedding means learning a whole new language—from timelines and titles to traditions and décor. This glossary breaks down the most common wedding terms Canadian couples will encounter, making it easier to communicate with vendors, stay on top of your planning, and understand what to expect throughout the big day.

Wedding Terms Glossary (A–Z)

A

  • Altar: The focal point of the ceremony, where the couple exchanges vows and promises.

B

  • Black Tie: A formal dress code indicating tuxedos and evening gowns.
  • Boutonnière: A small floral accent worn on the lapel, typically by the groom or groomsmen.
  • Bridal Party: The couple’s closest friends and family who play key roles in the wedding.
  • Bustle: A method of pinning up the dress train to allow ease of movement post-ceremony.

C

  • Cake Cut: The symbolic moment when the couple cuts the wedding cake together.
  • Centrepiece: A decorative arrangement placed on reception tables.
  • Charger: A decorative base plate used in formal table settings.
  • Champagne Wall: A stylish installation for serving champagne to guests.
  • Cocktail Hour: The transition period between ceremony and reception.
  • Colour Palette: The curated set of colours guiding your wedding’s visual identity.
    Read: How to Choose Your Wedding Colour Palette
  • Content Creator: A vendor who documents your day for social media, often using a phone.
    Read: Wedding Videographer vs. Content Creators
  • Corsage: A small floral bouquet worn on the wrist or shoulder.

D

E–F

  • Engagement Session: A pre-wedding photoshoot with your photographer.
    Read: Do You Really Need an Engagement Session?
  • First Dance: The couple’s first official dance as newlyweds.
  • First Look: A private moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony.
  • Floor Plan: A diagram showing your reception layout.
  • Flower Wall: A lush floral backdrop for décor or photos.

G–H

  • Golden Hour: The soft light just before sunset, ideal for portraits.
    Read: What to Wear for Winter Wedding Photos
  • Grand Entrance: The formal introduction of the couple at the reception.
  • Head Table: The table reserved for the couple and their wedding party.

I–L

  • Installation: A large design feature like a floral arch or hanging structure.
  • Junior Bridesmaid/Groomsman: A younger member of the bridal party.
  • Kiss Game: A reception game where guests earn the right to see the couple kiss.
  • Letterpress: A classic printing method for high-end stationery.
  • Makeup Trial: A pre-wedding test run for bridal makeup.

M–N

  • Man/Maid/Matron of Honour: The lead attendant supporting the bride.
  • Marriage Licence: A legal document you must obtain to marry in Canada.
    Read: How to Get a Marriage Licence
  • Month-of Coordinator: A planner who steps in 4–6 weeks before the wedding.
  • Mood Board: A visual planning tool capturing your aesthetic.
  • No Look First Look: A private moment without actually seeing each other.

O–R

  • Open Bar: A bar service with no cost to guests.
  • Photo Dash: A timed group photo challenge during the reception.
  • Place Card: A name card assigning guests their seats.
  • Plus One: A guest’s date or companion.
  • Private Vows: Personal promises exchanged privately.
  • Procession/Processional: The formal ceremony entrance.
  • Recession/Recessional: The formal exit following the ceremony.
  • Reception: The post-ceremony celebration.
  • Rehearsal Dinner: A pre-wedding meal for close friends and family.
  • RSVP: A guest’s response confirming attendance.

S–T

  • Save the Dates: Early invitations with date and location info.
    Read: When to Send Save the Dates for a Destination Wedding
  • Signature Cocktail: A custom drink served at the reception.
  • Signing Album: A guestbook alternative featuring photos and space for notes.
  • Sparkler Exit: A lit-up sendoff as the couple departs the reception.
  • Sweetheart Table: A private table just for the couple.
  • Throwaway Bouquet: A smaller bouquet used for the bouquet toss.
  • Train: The flowing part of the gown extending behind the bride.

U–W

  • Up Lighting: Decorative lighting that enhances your venue’s ambiance.
  • Usher: A person who helps seat guests at the ceremony.
  • Wedding Rehearsal: A practice run of the ceremony.
  • Wedding Website: Your digital hub for wedding details, travel info, and RSVPs.

Final Thoughts

Confused by wedding terms? This glossary will help you speak the language of weddings with confidence—whether you’re planning an unplugged ceremony or debating a day-after session.

Ready to put this knowledge to use?
Explore our Complete Canadian Wedding Planning Guide and get expert advice for every step of your journey.