In the land of iPHone invitations, "couples" seating charts and flip-flop dress codes, uncovering the nuances of contemporary California etiquette calls for an entirely new book of rules.

by Jackie Marcus

[excerpt]

"...And the difference in California manners is apparent even before you get to the table, as hosts on the Left Coast are putting their own stamp on invitations and RSVPs. More and more, Californians are eschewing more formal printed materials in favor of email and phone calls.

Los Angeles-based wedding and event planner Lisa Gorjestani finds the decision to use email or phone for invitations or RSVPs is not always about informality. "An increasing number of couples want 'green' weddings. Being socially and environmentally conscious is more important to them than adhering to strict traditional etiquette," offers Gorjestani, who frequently helps clients find invitations and gift bags made of recycled paper.