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I am a sucker for anything to do with rules of etiquette. I believe this obsession began with a copy of Judith Martin's Miss Manners given to me on my 13th birthday.  This book is more of a comedic spin on etiquette and really gets you to thinking about how rules change with time. Please note, I do not judge those who fail to follow the law, as I am often the first to prop my elbows on the table when I'm feeling a little exhausted. I am just fascinated with that which should be.
I often find great wedding etiquette tips from the blog of Blue Orchid Designs .  Below you will find Liene's modern twists on the traditional rules of celebrating your engagement with a party.

Traditional: The bride's immediate family hosts the engagement party as a way to celebrate and share the couple's good news with friends and family. If the groom's family lives out of state or far away, it is not inappropriate to have a second engagement party hosted by his family.
Modern:  An engagement party may be hosted by anyone, but the role should not be offered to anyone in the bridal party unless they specifically request to host.  The reason for this is that your bridesmaids and groomsmen have several other obligations during the planning process that they need to focus their energy and finances on.

Traditional: The host foots the bill, even if the party takes place in a restaurant.
Modern: This stays the same.  Guests should never pay for their own meal or for any part of the party.  If it gets to be pricey, the person hosting your engagement party may also opt to host just a happy hour or an afternoon champagne and hors d'oeuvres mixer.

Traditional: Guests are not expected to bring gifts to an engagement party.  If they do, the bride and groom should open them later in private and not in front of guests as you would at a bridal shower.
Modern: If you're a guest, a small token gift is not inappropriate, such as a favorite wedding planning book. While you're still not obligated to bring a gift at all, I would recommend a card of congrats at the very minimum.

Traditional: Toasts are given, beginning with the father of the bride. After him, the groom toasts his bride and her family and then opens up the floor to any other friends or family who want to share a few words.
Modern: If the party is being hosted by someone other than the bride's immediate family, they should be third in line to toast, but they are not obligated to say anything.

Traditional: No one should be invited to the engagement party who will not also be invited to the wedding. 
Modern: This rule stays the same, even for the most modern of couples and even if you are planning a destination wedding. Being rude is never in style.

As the seasons change, we look forward to what's new in bridal wear. We've selected a few of our favorite spring bridal gowns from some of the top designers to feature here. For a complete listing of bridal collections by designers from Alfred Sung to Youlin, be sure to visit Martha Stewart Weddings.

The following collection of wedding favors and place cards were acquired from beau-coup.com. What better way to warm up the holiday season than with some of these cool favors and supplies. Many of these items may even be personalized. From the tea sachets to the bottle stoppers, your guests will be thrilled with the way you've created a winter wonderland at your wedding reception.

Check out this collection of bridal hairstyles. Includes many different inspiring styles including creative updos.

Fall is definitely in the air, and we are seeing more and more couples celebrating the season with a wide array of autumn details in their weddings. The following collage is a collection of images from Brides.com.


Photography by: Miki Duisterhof

Text compiled from The Finer Things

Whether you want to thank someone for a gift, a meal or for being a good host, sending a thank you note is an excellent way to convey your appreciation. Here are a few tips on how to express your gratitude graciously:

• Invest in quality stationery: Receiving a handwritten note in the mail is such a delight and for the note to be written on a beautiful note or flat card makes the experience extra special

• Always date your note: If something happens at the postal office to delay its delivery, the date on your note will ensure your recipient appreciates your promptness

• Make the recipient feel truly appreciated: It's easy to scribe something quickly to get the social job done, but a well thought-out message will make a lasting impression

• • Start by thanking the recipient for their gift or service
  • Next, be sure to tell the recipient why the gift or service made such an impression on you—was the sweater exactly what you had been looking for? Was your host especially accommodating in some way (for example, stocking your room with sweet smelling toiletries)?
  • Close the letter by reinforcing your gratitude

Samples
Thank you note to a host:
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for the immense hospitality you and your family offered us on our recent visit to Cape May. You provided us with every comfort of home and we are especially appreciative of the time you took to give us a tour of the region. It was so nice to see the area through the eyes of a local.
Again, we really had a wonderful time on our visit and appreciate you opening your home to us. We would love to return the favor if you decide to vacation in Charlotte.
Warm regards,
Susan

Thank you note for a gift:
Dear Aunt Eloise,
Thank you for the beautiful sweater. I received it in the mail yesterday and it was such a lovely surprise. I adore the soft shade of purple—you really have impeccable taste.
Again, I appreciate the wonderful birthday gift. I can’t wait to be able to wear it this fall.
Your niece,
Cindy

Thank you for a favor:
Dear Bryan,
Thank you for helping us move into our new home last weekend. It was so helpful to have someone to help Joe carry in all of our living room furniture—we couldn’t have done it without you and really appreciate the time you took to assist us.
Sincerely,
The Kells Family

These cards and a wide array of others can be found online at Crane & Co.