Photography: Ulla Maija Photography
When planning their wedding, couples will try to arrange everything perfectly to give a lasting impression and at the same time, make sure that their guests can enjoy the wedding as well. Considering the tremendous time and effort they've spent, why not return the favor by not ruining their special day? Find out how to be a great guest through the dos and don'ts below.
Do remember the RSVP deadline
When you're invited to a sit-down wedding reception, usually you'll be asked to give a reply. Make sure to take note of the RSVP deadline and reply as soon as you know your schedule.
Don't think you can simply bring a date
For a sit-down reception, the number of seats available has been decided according to the number of replies received. So, don't bring a plus one without letting the couple know in advance as you will cause unexpected problems on their wedding day.
Do let them know about your special diets
RSVP wedding invitations usually give you a chance to write down your special diets or food allergies. This way, you'll be able to enjoy food that has been especially prepared according to your needs.
Don't assume kids are always allowed
When you receive a wedding invitation, you should check whether it will be a child-friendly party or not. Couples usually write it clearly on the invitation, but you can always ask them directly just to make sure.
Do look for wedding gifts early
If you choose to bring a wedding gift, try to find one as soon as you can. Try to avoid double gifting by letting the couple's family know about what you're planning to give them. Who knows, you might give them a gift that they already have.
Don't forget to mail your gift if it's too big
You have to remember to mail your large gift instead of bring it along with you, especially when you're attending a destination wedding. We understand that you want to show your good gesture personally, but bothering them by adding more load to their luggage is just not a good idea.
Do wait to be seated
In every wedding, there is always an MC or officiant leading the proceedings. Follow their leads to know when to stand up and sit down because there are certain reasons why you are told to do so.
Don't make your own party
For some people, attending a wedding can feel like a reunion. We know how much you've missed all of your friends, but save the rendezvous for later after the ceremony is done. Remember to keep quiet when there's an important event going on, as you won't want to interrupt a special moment.
Do arrive on time
Weddings often start late, even 20-30 minutes behind schedule. However, it shouldn't be an excuse for you to come late. It's really unacceptable to come after the bride has entered the room. In that case, you need to wait after "I do" before joining the celebration with other guests.
Don't forget to set your smart phone as silent
There's no worse interruption than the sound of a phone alert or alarm in the middle of a sacred wedding vow. After you set yourself on the chair, it would be better to check your phone setting and also double check your phone alarm.
Do follow the dress code
We're sure no one wants to be an outlier during a social event, so check your invitation to see if there's a specific dress code and try to follow it. Spend some time preparing the dress and accessories you're planning to wear.
Don't wear white unless you're asked to
There's a superstitious and widespread thought that there guests shouldn't wear white so they don't appear to be competing with the bride. But in today's modern world, especially with the trending all-white weddings, some brides can ask her bridesmaids and even guests to wear white.
Do know your alcohol limit
There might be an open bar in a wedding and there will be no limit of alcohol consumption, but it doesn't mean you're allowed to lose yourself. This is a happy occasion, don't ruin everything just because you can't control yourself.
Don't be your own paparazzi
In today's tech savvy society, everybody wants to upload beautiful wedding photos. Don't let the professional wedding photographer the couple hired go to waste just because you can't stop taking pictures and videos with your smart phone, especially if the wedding has a no-cell-phone rule. Try asking the photographer's assistant or a wedding organizer staff when you want to take pictures with the bride and groom using your phone as they will be more than happy to help you.
Do greet the family
On the wedding day, the bride and groom's family will be easily noticed. If you happen to encounter them, greet them by simply congratulating them for the joyous occasion.
Don't be a stranger
The couples has been dreaming of this wedding for a long time. So, instead of letting yourself be a wallflower, loosen up. When you're asked to join the first dance, don't hesitate to take the steps. If you're single and asked to gather around for a wedding bouquet toss, then get up and have some fun.
