The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness

CHAPTER XXIV. BRIDAL ETIQUETTE. In preparing a bridal outfit, it is best to furnish the wardrobe for at least two years, in under-clothes, and one year in dresses, though the bonnet and cloak, suitable for the coming season, are all that are necessary, as the fashions in these articles change so rapidly. If you are going to travel, have a neat dress and cloak of some plain color, and a close bonnet and veil. Avoid, as intensely vulgar, any display of your position as a bride, whilst traveling. Take, first, the weddings at church. In this case none are invited to the ceremony excepting the family, and the reception is at the house of the bride's mother, or nearest relative, either on the wedding-day or upon her return from the bridal tour. In sending out the invitations, let the card of the bridegroom and that of the bride be tied together with a white ribbon, and folded in the note paper upon which is printed the name of the bride's mother, with the date of the reception-day, thus:-- MRS. JOHN SAUNDERS. At home, Thursday, Oct. 16th, from 11 till 2. No. 218, ---- st. of course the hours and dates vary, but the form is the same. If there is no bridal reception upon the wedding day, the cards are worded:-- MR. AND MRS. JAMES SMITH. At home, Wednesdays, On, and after, June 6th. No. 17, ---- st. Tie the card with the bride's maiden name upon it to this one.