Weddings are a whirlwind of joy, tears, and, if not careful, a few notable faux pas. While they are a celebration of love and a chance to enjoy a fantastic party, there are some universal rules that guests should honor - unwritten yet widely acknowledged. Amidst the excitement, it's easy to forget that your actions play a pivotal role in making the day as magical as planned. Worried you'll accidentally commit a wedding day no-no? Here's your playful yet sage guide to avoiding common wedding guest missteps that could turn a day of love into an episode of cringe.
Don't Match the Bride
When it comes to wedding attire, the biggest faux pas remains unchanged: wearing white. Choose a different hue to harmonize beautifully with the wedding's color scheme without overshadowing the bride. And if you find yourself questioning whether your dress might be too close to white, it's probably a no. Opt for something else to ensure the focus stays where it should.
Don't Ask for a Plus One
If your invite doesn't mention a plus one, resist the urge to ask the couple for an extra seat. It's not just about squeezing in another chair; it's about respecting the balance of their meticulously crafted guest list and budget. Remember, the bride and groom have likely agonized over these decisions. So, cherish your invite, and know that your solo presence is more than enough to make their day special.
Polina Yarmush, Piermarco Rinaldi
Don't Swap Assigned Seats
Consider the seating chart a master plan for social harmony. Shuffling around can disrupt the finely tuned dynamics the couple planned. Stick to your assigned spot and embrace the opportunity to make new friends or catch up with old ones as planned by the hosts.
Don't Ignore the Dress Code
Dress codes are not mere suggestions- they set the tone for the event. If the invite says black tie, this isn't the time to champion your beloved flip-flops. Embrace the elegant attire and respect the parties' expectations. Adhering to the dress code enriches the celebration's atmosphere and shows your appreciation for the couple's vision.
Don't Give a Speech Unless Invited
Unplanned speeches can go from touching to cringeworthy in a heartbeat. Let the chosen speakers take the stage unless you're specifically asked to speak. Remember, the couple has carefully selected who will speak to ensure their day flows as they envisioned. Weddings aren't the place for unscheduled performances, however good your intentions.
Don't Get Too Drunk
A wedding is a marathon, not a sprint. While weddings are a celebration, they're not an open bar free-for-all. Enjoy the bar responsibly. Overindulging can lead to the kind of unforgettable moments that nobody wants to remember. Pace yourself- your dancing skills and dignity will thank you later!
Brittany Boote, Pavel Golubnichy
Avoid Using Your Phone During the Ceremony
Nothing shatters the magic of a heartfelt vow like hearing a ringtone or a bright screen. Keep your phone out of sight to preserve the solemnity of the ceremony. Remember, you're there to witness a union, not to update your feed in real time or catch up on those missed texts. It's okay to snap a few pictures, if phones are allowed, but give the moment and the couple the respect they deserve by fully enjoying witnessing their union.
Be on Time
This isn't the moment to be fashionably late- arrive on time. Timeliness shows your respect for the couple's special day. Arriving late can cause you to miss key moments, and ducking out too soon might mean missing out on important traditions or the peak of the celebration. Remember, your presence is part of the day's joy.
Don't Try to Outshine the Couple
Today is about the couple, not the guests. Avoid extravagant displays or announcements like a proposal that could detract from their spotlight. Your role is to support and celebrate their love, not overshadow it. Today, it's their story, and you're here to share in their joy- not steal the scene.
Follow the Couple's Requests
Last but not least, adhering to the couple's requests, such as no phones or a kids-free after party, is paramount. These guidelines are set to ensure their day unfolds as they dreamed. Being the guest who respects these wishes is being a guest who truly honors the couple.
