Wedding Guest Etiquette 101: How To Avoid Common Mistakes

Weddings are a big day not only for the bride and groom but also for the guests. You are among the privileged few who have received an invitation to celebrate such an important milestone in the lives “of the couple getting married.

However, as much as the occasion is happy and exciting, there are some etiquette mistakes that wedding guests make that can not only be awkward but can also cause unnecessary tension. Whether a seasoned wedding attendee or a first-timer, it helps to know the dos and don’ts.

This article highlights the top etiquette mistakes wedding guests should avoid.

1. Arriving Late

Arriving late is an all too common etiquette mistake wedding guests make. While it’s understandable that events can have unforeseen circumstances that cause delays, it’s still best to try to be at the venue at least 30 minutes before the start time.

Arriving late makes you miss out on vital parts of the ceremony and can disrupt the day’s flow. It also creates a scene when guests start coming in when the ceremony is underway.

2. Using Your Phone

We all understand how convenient mobile phones are and how they’ve become an essential part of our daily lives, but it’s important to remember that weddings are a time to unplug and connect with people in real life.

It’s okay to take a quick picture or check your phone once in a while, but constantly staring at your phone during the ceremony or reception can be a bit distracting, especially when a professional photographer takes pictures of the event.

3. Drinking Too Much Alcohol

While drink and celebration coincide, it’s important to remember that a wedding is not a club or a bar, and it’s never too fun to be that guest who is too drunk to function. Being drunk can cause accidents and impairs your judgment, and you don’t want to be remembered as the person who ruined somebody’s wedding day. Drinking in moderation is advisable, and remember that someone else is footing the bill for your drinks.

4. Ignoring The Dress Code

Dressing up for weddings is something that most people look forward to as it’s an opportunity to show off one’s sense of style. Failing to adhere to the dress code on the invitation can be an uncomfortable moment for the guest, the couple, and their families.

If you don’t know the dress code, check online sources or call the couple to ask for clarification. Remember that you never want to outdo the bride on her big day.

5. Leaving Before the End of the Reception

The reception is usually the most exciting part of any wedding, with food, drinks, dancing, and mingling. However, some guests leave early for many reasons, which can be a downer for the bride and groom. Stay at the reception as long as it is acceptable, congratulate the newlyweds, and wait until the end of the party.

It will show the couple how much you care but also helps ensure those left behind aren’t left feeling deflated.

Remember, the spotlight is on the couple, and it’s your job to blend in and seamlessly contribute to the day’s festivities. Avoiding these common etiquette mistakes will make the day more memorable and enjoyable while maintaining a great relationship with the couple long after the day ends.