Weddings are expensive and the couple has poured so much time and money into the whole experience for all their wedding guests. Consider what you would expect if it was your wedding and how a polished guest should act. Commenting in a negative way about the food, etc. or over-indulging in alcohol can embarrass the couple including yourself. It is never a bad idea to brush up on wedding etiquette. Check out these 10 things wedding guests should never do.
1. Wear White (or off white, or beige, or ivory)
Unless requested or stated in the invitation, avoid wearing white or any shade that could upstage the bride. Let her shine on her special day. This rule has been around for like ever!
2. Arrive Late
Showing up late disrupts the ceremony and draws unwanted attention to your entrance. Aim to arrive at least 15-30 minutes early. Some wedding planners may have been instructed to not allow late arrivals to disrupt the intimate ceremony. Life happens but try to avoid at all costs.
3. Bring an Uninvited Guest
If your invitation doesn’t include a plus-one or is addressed only to you, do not bring anyone along. This can create logistical and seating issues. Some couples spend roughly $75 per person. That is also a great reason to not forget the RSVP!
4. Ignore the Dress Code
Whether it’s black tie, cocktail, or casual, follow the dress code outlined on the invitation. Disregarding it can come across as disrespectful. Maybe save that “body con” dress or Décolletage for another event. At L&L Farm, we have had brides request all the wedding guests to wear all black so that she is the ONLY one wearing white. Please don’t challenge the dress code.
5. Overindulge in Food or Drink, especially Alcohol
Enjoy yourself responsibly. Open bars are fun, but a wobbly guest is a liability. Overindulging in alcohol can lead to inappropriate behavior and take the focus off of the couple. Know when to cut yourself off or someone else will. Remember this is a celebration of a marriage, keep it classy.
6. Interrupt the Couples’ Photos
Seeing loved ones on their wedding day is exciting, but you’re there for support. Sometimes knowing when to keep your distance during pre or post ceremony photos is a must. Please admire them from a distance. This can be one of the few moments the couple has without large numbers of people surrounding them.
7. Complain About the Food or Event
Even if you don’t like the food or the playlist, keep your thoughts to yourself. Negative comments can hurt the couple’s feelings. It is impossible to please everyone. If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all – don’t offer unsolicited feedback.
8. Bring Up Drama or Talk Politics
Avoid controversial topics such as politics or religion. Weddings bring together a diverse group of people and are meant to be joyful and drama-free celebrations.
9. Have Your Phone Out
Please be respectful and tuck away your device. It’s not your event and the professional photographer will likely be obscured by you and your smartphone. Enjoy being unplugged! The couple will love the photos of guests standing around admiring a first dance, but cell phones in the air can ruin an otherwise, awesome photo.
10. Leave Before the Key Moments
Leaving early without good reason, especially before the cake-cutting or first dance, can come off as rude unless it’s unavoidable.
Staying considerate ensures you’re a guest the couple will fondly remember. Also be sure and check out another similar post about Southern Wedding Etiquette.
Photos by Saved by Grace Photography