A
A-Line
A popular dress style fitted from the shoulders to the hips and widening at the hem.
Aisle Runner
A long piece of fabric positioned in the center of the aisle. It is commonly rolled out at the beginning of the ceremony and indicates the arrival of the bride.
Altar
A raised area or table typically found in churches. Brides and grooms typically stand in front of the altar as they read their vows.
Alterations
Alterations are done to dress any other type of attire when the fit needs to be customized to a specific measurement.
Applique
Pieces of fabric sewn on to a dress or gown. They come in many shapes, patterns, and can even contain beading and sequins.
Arbor
Usually set up behind the ceremony site to act as a backdrop. It’s commonly decorated with flowers and can also be referred to as a pergola, gazebo, or alcove.
Ascot
A men’s broad silk necktie that is looped under the chin.
B
Bachelor Party
A celebration for the groom before he gets married.
Bachelorette Party
A celebration for the bride before she gets married.
Ball Gown
A floor-length dress style that is usually fitted at the top and full at the bottom.
Basket Weave
A piping technique commonly used to decorate cakes that resembles a basket pattern.
Bespoke
A custom-tailored product or service made just for the customer.
Best Man
an individual chosen by the groom to assist him during the wedding.
Bezel
A groove holding a gem in its setting.
Black Tie
A term used to describe a style of formal evening wear used when the most sophisticated attire should be worn.
Black Tie Optional
When formal tuxedo is requested but guests can wear a dark business suit if they choose to do so.
Blusher
A shorter portion of the veil that is worn over the face as the bride walks down the aisle and is then lifted by her father or the groom.
Bridal Party
Consists of the bride and her bridesmaids. Can also refer to the entire wedding party as well.
Bridesmaids
A group of attendants selected by the bride to assist and support her throughout the wedding process.
Boat Neck
A type of a wide neckline on a dress that sits just under the collarbone.
Bomboniere
French term for a wedding favor that is given to the guests by the hosts.
Bouquet
A floral arrangement made to be carried at a wedding.
Boutonniere
A spray of flowers typically pinned to a suit.
Bow Tie
A necktie that is made into the shape of a bow using two loops.
Bustle
When a seamstress adds buttons or hooks into a dress to lift the train after the ceremony.
Buttercream
A mixture of butter and sugar that is frequently used as a topping for wedding cakes.
C
Cake Cutting Fee
A fee charged by the venue when you don’t purchase the cake from them or one of their preferred vendors.
Card Stock
A thick type of paper used to create invitations and stationery for formal occasions.
Canape
An appetizer consisting of a piece of bread topped with a savory spread.
Candelabra
A large candlestick that holds several candles used as a centerpiece or decorative element.
Candle
A cylinder or block of wax with a wick that is used to produce light.
Cash Bar
When the bar at a social function requires guests to pay for their beverages rather than having them paid for by the host.
Cascade Bouquet
A bouquet style where the flowers cascade downwards from the center resembling a waterfall.
Cathedral Veil
A veil that extends beyond the train of gown and can be up to 10 ft in length
Celebrant
A person who performs or leads a religious ceremony.
Centerpiece
The main focal point of a dining table. Usually made of flowers.
Ceremony
Where two people are united in marriage through the exchanging of vows lead by an officiant or celebrant.
Channel Setting
A type of mounting where diamonds or other precious stones are set into a channel made of two metal strips to form a row.
Charger
A large plate used for decorative purposes inside of a place setting.
Chiffon
A light sheer fabric made of silk or nylon and frequently layered on wedding dresses.
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