peek sneaking?

Posted by Sara in Weddings.

So I admit it.

I am a peek-sneaker.

Not sure what I’m talking about?

Register and you’ll know what I mean…

Apparently it is not the proper etiquette to go on the retail store’s wedding registry site after registering to see what has and has not been purchased for you. When I mentioned to people I checked the site periodically (i.e., obsessively), I was chastised. A lot.

“But you’re not SUPPOSED to do that!!!!”

Well, if I’m not supposed to, then why am I able to???

Here’s the thing that I don’t get: if it’s all supposed to be one big surprise, then why the hell are we allowed to select the store we want gifts from, put aside hours of our time, browsing the store with one of their nifty little scan guns? Why do stores like Macy’s and Bed, Bath, and Beyond (both of which we are registered at in case you love my blog so much you want to get me my toilet scrubber or dirt devil…) have special concierges specifically designated to help the soon-to-be newly weds?

There is no surprise that people select their own gifts and then the people they invite to the wedding then go and buy them. I just don’t get if we’re willing to accept this ludicrous tradition, why it’s then in bad taste to include where you’re registered on your shower or wedding invitations, or why it’s so horrible to check and see what’s been purchased for you.

Wedding etiquette has proven to be hackneyed and ass-backwards on many occasions. Also, I’ve found that no two sources are 100% the same on their point-of-view. Therefore, no matter what you do, you are bound to offend someone. People were SHOCKED when I got my shower cards out within 3 weeks.

“But that’s what the wedding site told me to do…” I said, stupidly.

“No, no, no… you have at least 2 months!” one friend explained.

Why hadn’t I found her etiquette site first??

I feel that perhaps all the major players in the wedding industry– theknot.com, the wedding channel, and all the other sites that collect billions of frazzled brides’ bucks should come together, kind of like the meeting of the families in The Godfather, and once and for all lay down the ground rules.

Here would be a few of my suggestions:

Thou shalt not dress your bridesmaids in lime green, hot pink, or bright yellow or orange taffeta.

Thou shalt get your thank you cards out within 3 months… of having your first child.

Thou shalt not force your single friends to partake in the bouquet toss, especially if you’re not planning on having an open bar.

Thou shall have open bar.

Thou shalt not try to set up any single friends with other single friends during the reception by coy seating arrangements. These people have paid their dues by sitting through your “perfect day” AND giving you the overpriced toaster oven you threw on your registry; the least you can do is let them enjoy the evening in peace.

Of course, this is just a small selection of the ideas I have, but seeing that it’s late and I must work a full day tomorrow to compensate for the time I’ll be taking off next week for the wedding, I must go.

Feel free to add any suggestions for “the list” you might have!!!

Weddings |