French weddings are celebrated for their elegance and sophistication. Navigating the appropriate attire and gift-giving customs can be a challenge for guests aiming to honor these traditions. This article will guide you through the dress code and gift etiquette to ensure you make a great impression at this special french events.
Wedding Planner : CEREMONIZE
What do people wear to weddings in France?
French weddings are often very elegant affairs. Guests are expected to wear formal attire.
For the women, it’s preferable to wear cocktail or evening long dresses, often accessorized with hats or fascinators for daytime ceremonies.
For the men, you can wear dark suits, ties or bow ties, and sometimes even tuxedos for very formal weddings.
It is important to avoid wearing white, which is reserved for the bride, or overly casual outfits.
When you receive the invite, you’ll probably find a wedding theme. Play the game and try to wear and accessorize to remind this theme. If it’s a colored theme, then you should wear something the color of the wedding theme.
If no indication on the invite, don’t hesitate to ask the couple.
What is the gift etiquette for a French wedding?
In France to thanks the couple and traditionally to help them starting their new life and getting installed together, it’s traditional to offer a gift. It can takes several format.
Couples in France often prepare a wedding registry that guests can consult to choose a gift. This list is usually available at a store or online. The only thing to do is to choose the gift and pay. The couple will then get it later. Be aware that they can also choose not to take it but to take the money or choose something else instead.
The other solution is also to give cash in an envelope, especially if the couple has not provided a registry or if you prefer to contribute financially to their honeymoon or other projects. The amount is up to you. We recommend you to give the price you would pay in a good restaurant.
If the couple is closed to you, personalized or symbolic gifts are also appreciated, especially if they have special significance for the couple.
You also may wonder if you should offer flowers. Our answer is definitely NO ! Imagine the 100 guests arriving with a bouquet. Impressive right? Oldest people are used to offer flowers but in the 21th century it’s no longer in use.
