FLOWERS are in general use. The quantity and
quality of floral decorations must depend
upon the taste and the wealth of the parties
concerned.
BRIDE. The bride, if she desires, carries at the
wedding ceremony a bouquet given by the
groom. Flowers are sometimes dispensed
with, and a Prayer-Book used.
CHURCH. In addition to the palms in the chancel,
a string of flowers or white ribbons is stretched
across the middle aisle, to reserve this place
for the immediate family and specially invited guests.
USHERS. Boutonnieres, provided by the bride's family, should be given to the sexton by the florist on the wedding-day. They may be made of lilies of the valley, white roses, or the like.
Sometimes the ushers call at the house of the bride to have her fix them in the lapel of their coats.
GIFTS. The nearest members of each family should arrange among themselves what gifts to send, and thus avoid duplicates. Expensive presents are sent only by most intimate friends, and articles of utility by relatives or near friends. All gifts should be sent within two months of date of marriage, and should have thereon the woman's maiden name, initial cipher, or monogram, and should be acknowledged by the bride at the earliest moment, and not later than ten days after her marriage.
It is not in good taste to make an ostentatious display of the gifts, and if they are exhibited, the cards of the donors should be removed, and only intimate friends invited.
Those sending gifts should have the courtesy of an invitation to the wedding breakfast or reception.
If any gifts are sent to the groom, they should bear his initial.
A wedding invitation does not necessarily imply that a gift must be sent, as the sending of a gift is optional.