“Florida Content Creator Sparks Debate Over Wedding and Party Etiquette Rules That Are Dividing Opinions on Social Media”

Navigating party and wedding etiquette can be tricky, especially when you’re a host or a guest.

Some rules might feel outdated, but most are simply traditions that help ensure that everyone has a pleasant and respectful experience.

Florida-based content creator Just Mindy recently sparked a viral debate on social media when she shared some “rules of etiquette” that she feels young women are often breaking.

The Etiquette Debate Goes Viral

Mindy’s list of etiquette rules quickly gained attention on X (formerly known as Twitter), with some agreeing that the guidelines made sense, while others dismissed them as old-fashioned.

One person even called them “archaic, oppressive, and exclusionary,” while others argued that etiquette should be taught in schools, with one commenter saying, “people don’t know manners anymore.”

To get a clearer understanding of these rules and whether they hold up, FEMAIL reached out to etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts, known as the Golden Rules Gal, to weigh in on the discussion.

Should You Host Your Own Bridal Shower?

One of the first rules Mindy pointed out was that “your bridal or baby shower should not be hosted by yourself or your mother.”

Instead, she suggested that it should be organized by someone like a sister, cousin, friend, or a group of people.

Lisa agreed with this rule, explaining that hosting your own bridal shower is similar to throwing yourself a surprise party, which isn’t typically done.

She emphasized that hosting the event yourself could come across as though you’re just looking for gifts, and it’s better to let others take the lead in offering to host.

Black Tie Events: The Rules for Elegance

Another key point Mindy raised was about black tie events.

According to Mindy, if you’re requesting guests to wear black tie, your event must be worthy of such attire. This means no buffets or cash bars.

Instead, you should provide a formal seated dinner and, most importantly, an open bar.

Lisa agreed with this, stating that a buffet could undermine the elegance of a black tie event, and a cash bar is a major faux pas because guests shouldn’t have to pay for their drinks at a formal event.

Should All Bridesmaids Get a Plus One?

When it comes to weddings, one issue that often arises is whether or not bridal party members are entitled to bring a plus one.

Mindy’s rule suggests that all members of the bridal party, even unmarried ones, should receive a plus one.

Lisa, however, disagreed, explaining that while offering a plus one is a nice gesture, it’s not a strict requirement and depends on factors like the couple’s budget and venue capacity.

That said, Lisa acknowledged that if one bridesmaid is given a plus one, then it would be fair for all bridesmaids to have the same courtesy.

Bridal Party Expenses: Who Should Pay?

Mindy’s post also raised concerns about the financial burden that bridesmaids can face, especially when it comes to paying for their dresses, the bachelorette party, and professional hair and makeup for the wedding day.

Mindy believes that if a bride asks her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done by a specific person, she should cover the costs.

Lisa wholeheartedly agreed with this point, saying that if the bride insists on a specific look or a professional service, she should be responsible for those expenses, as it can add up to a significant amount for the bridesmaids.

How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding Gift?

Another topic that Mindy touched on was the idea that the amount of money you spend on a wedding gift should reflect the cost of the meal you’re receiving at the event.

For example, if you’re having a multi-course steak dinner, your gift should be of similar value.

Lisa, however, disagreed with this notion, explaining that weddings are a celebration of love, not a financial transaction.

She emphasized that generosity is measured by thoughtfulness, not by the monetary value of the gift.

Final Thoughts on Etiquette

As the conversation around these etiquette rules continues to evolve, it’s clear that there are many opinions on what’s considered polite or proper at parties and weddings.

While some of these rules may seem outdated to some, others believe they play an important role in creating a respectful and enjoyable environment for everyone involved.

Ultimately, what matters most is treating others with kindness and consideration, regardless of the event’s formalities.