Ask the Experts: Sponsored Weddings

Q: Is it appropriate to have a wedding sponsored? A company has offered to supply the champagne in exchange for mentioning the name of the business on our invitations — and we don’t want to pass up what might be a golden opportunity.

A: There’s a fine line between making the most of a situation and out-and-out fund-raising, says Marie Williamson, proprietor of Affairs to Be Remembered in Broomall. It’s all in the tone, which should be either subtle and understated or fun and lighthearted. Hard-sell ad campaigns are a no-no.

“If the bride and groom are OK with this kind of approach, it’s their responsibility to set the tone,” says Williamson. “If they’re an anything-goes kind of couple, their guests probably won’t be surprised the wedding is sponsored.” —Eileen Smith