Wedding Anniversary Party Etiquette

Like a wedding, baby shower, or even birthday party, there are certain do’s and don’ts when it comes to Wedding Anniversary Parties – here are just a few answers to the most common questions we have been asked about Wedding Anniversary Party Etiquette:

WHO?

Traditionally for the first few years of marriage, only the couple celebrates the anniversary. It’s the perfect opportunity for a couple to share a special time together and take some time to themselves. After year 15 the celebrations tend to get bigger – how big is up to the couple. There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to who you should invite, but remember who was a big part of the wedding, and who has supported you as a couple through the years – let them celebrate with you.

WHAT?

A romantic dinner for two, or a huge party for all the family – it depends on the couple and the year. For the big years (25, 30, 40 etc) it’s expected to have a party for friends and family and it could potentially cause offence if there isn’t one. However, some couples prefer to celebrate even the big ones privately so don’t take anything for granted. If it’s your parents’ anniversary and you’d like to throw them a surprise party, speak to their friends, siblings and parents if you can – they’ll be able to help you figure out what kind of party they’d like.

WHERE?

It depends on the event, but you are organising a party for someone else, make sure it is somewhere that they will enjoy – plan the party they want, not the one you’d like. There are no rules that it has to be in a restaurant or hotel – be creative!

WHY?

Why celebrate an anniversary? The tradition is to spend time together and rediscover why you got married and celebrate your bond as a couple. If this isn’t a good enough reason, I don’t know what is!