Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. (Note: Questions may be edited for clarity and brevity.)
Today, we’re doing a little something different. Every time we discuss brides or bridesmaids going barefoot, the response is overwhelming. In fact, our top post was the first Wediquette Wednesday, which published Jan. 14, 2015. The question was, “Is it OK to go barefoot at the reception?” The answer was no, unless it’s a beach wedding
or, for example an outdoor, bohemian-style ceremony. But because we’ve seen women (and men) time and time again take their shoes off to go shake it on the dance floor, which is a concern for venue managers when it comes to both being sanitary and keeping attendees safe from the possibility of cutting their foot on, for example, a broken glass or getting some other injury on site. We recommended putting a basket of flip-flops or those inexpensive ballet flats made to fold up and be stored in your purse. Click the above link to read more on the subject.
On Dec. 7, we had a similar question: “Is it acceptable for a bride to go barefoot at her wedding?” Click the link to read our suggestions, but for today’s post, I wanted to offer up a reader response we received, which included great advice.
“Eclectic” suggested, “Offering a simple foot washing station near the shoe racks at the door is a great way to compromise. An heirloom pitcher with embroidered towels would be pretty. A foot washing ceremony could even be a beautiful, meaningful part of the wedding.”
There were several other reader responses as well, so be sure to take a look. As we keep learning, this is a hot-button topic!
Meanwhile, for those of you who have no interest in going barefoot, read “Sole Mate: A Guide to Finding the Shoe that Fits,” from New Orleans Bride. The tips and tricks gathered by our beauty editor Mirella Cameran will ensure that you have happy feet.
Do you think it’s OK to go barefoot at a wedding if you are the bride? A bridesmaid? A guest? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Respond in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.com.
