Wedding planning terms explained — a glossary for couples

Wedding planning comes with its own vocabulary. Here are the key terms explained.

The ceremony

• Banns: public announcement of an intended marriage, read on three consecutive Sundays in an Anglican church. Required for Church of England weddings.
• Notice of marriage: the civil equivalent — given at the register office, at least 28 days before the wedding.
• Registrar: the official who conducts civil ceremonies and registers the marriage.

The reception

• Wedding breakfast: the formal sit-down meal after the ceremony — not actually a breakfast, regardless of time.
• Toastmaster: a master of ceremonies who announces speeches and manages the reception programme.
• Top table: the main table where the couple, wedding party and immediate family are traditionally seated.

Stationery

• Save the date: early notice of the wedding date, sent before formal invitations.
• RSVP: from the French 'répondez s'il vous plaît' — please reply.
• Order of service: the ceremony programme listing readings, hymns and the structure.