Working with wedding pros like caterers, planners, and florists? You'll likely hear insider terms that spark confusion. "Brides constantly ask about my jargon," shares Annie Lee, founder of renowned planning firm Daughter of Design. "Photographers and caterers even mix up dialects—each trade has its own lingo."
That's why Lee developed Learn to Speak Wedding: Flashcards for Beginners, 50 cards demystifying key terms. Ideal as a fun bride-to-be gift or bridal shower trivia game. Boost your wedding IQ with Lee's expert glossary:
- STD: Don't worry if planners urge spreading STDs to family—it's "Save the Date" cards.
- FOB, MOB, FOG, MOG: Planner shorthand for parents: Father/Mother of the Bride/Groom. Use discreetly.
- BM, GM, MOH: Wedding party roles: BM for bridesmaid or best man, GM for groomsman, MOH for maid of honor.
- Bouts (pronounced "boots"): Boutonnieres, lapel flowers for groomsmen. (Hint: boo-tuh-NEERS.)
- OTT: Over-the-top—praise for extravagant touches like 20 bridesmaids or grand centerpieces.
- OOT: Out-of-town guests. Greet them with welcome bags: snacks, water, local guides.
- OT: Overtime—extra fees if events run long. Contracts must spell it out to dodge surprises.
- F&B: Food & Beverage—venue minimums for menus and bars, key for weekends.
- BEO: Banquet Event Order—vendor's final blueprint: menu, count, timeline, setup, requests. Scrutinize it!
- Peeps: Transport lingo for passengers (e.g., limo capacity).
- Trash the Dress: Post-wedding shoot for daring photos—ocean splashes or fields. Dry cleaners restore magic.
