Lisa O
Are you excited to jump in your car and head out to see your best friend get married? That’s great! But before you start your Tesla, there are a few things to remember about wedding guest etiquette. Being a fantastic guest involves a bit of effort, and you definitely want to steer clear of becoming a wedding guestzilla. Here are 15 things you should never do at a wedding!
Don’t Arrive Too Early
Being on time is the right move, but showing up more than 30 minutes early can mess with the final touches and add stress for the couple. They’re usually busy with last-minute details, so having guests around too soon can be a real hassle. It’s usually better to hang out in your car until it’s closer to the ceremony start time rather than coming in early and adding extra stress for the bride and groom.
Don’t Show Up Late
The general rule is to be seated 10 minutes before the ceremony begins. Showing up while the bride or groom walks down the aisle is impolite and ruins the photos and video. It’s super important to be on time so you don’t disrupt the special moment and get in the way of capturing those amazing memories.
Don’t Take a Whole Bottle from the Bar
Grabbing a beer at the open bar? Totally fine. But snagging a whole bottle of champagne (or something stronger) is a big no-no. You definitely don’t want to be the one everyone’s chatting about for the wrong reasons. Keep it classy and let the bartender or waiter handle the pouring so you can enjoy the wedding without any fuss.
Don’t Mention Problems to the Couple
The newlyweds are already busy enjoying their big day and ensuring everyone is happy. If something goes wrong at the wedding—don’t mention it to the couple or their close family. You don’t want to add any extra stress or frustration to their day. If you’re bothered by the issue, inform the venue staff.
Don’t Change Your Dinner Choice Last Minute
If you picked “chicken” or “fish” on the invitation, changing your mind at the last minute can mess things up. The only time it’s okay to switch is if you discover you’re allergic to something in your choice. In that case, politely ask to switch from fish to chicken. Otherwise, just stick with what you originally picked.
Don’t Complain About the Food
Complaining about the food at a wedding is just rude and a bit outdated. It makes you look bad and impolite. Keep your thoughts to yourself, and be grateful you’re part of the couple’s special day. Even if the meal isn’t five-star, remember that the couple likely spent a lot on it. It’s about celebrating them, not critiquing the food.
Don’t Act Bored or Tired
As wedding season winds down, it’s totally normal for your excitement to fade a bit. But once you’ve said you’re going to a wedding, no matter how many you’ve been to lately or how tricky the timing is, stay enthusiastic and give it your all for the bride and groom. You wouldn’t want someone to be grumpy on your big day, would you?
Don’t Get Pushy During the Bouquet Toss
Being too pushy during this tradition can come off as pretty awkward. You don’t want to seem overly eager or like you’re in a football game trying to catch a pass. Just let the bouquet fall where it’s thrown without elbowing anyone or crowding the space. It’s all about keeping things smooth and respectful so everyone can enjoy the moment.
Don’t Take the Vase with the Flowers
It’s usually fine to take the floral centerpieces from the dining tables at a wedding, but don’t take the vases. They’re not meant to be grabbed. You definitely don’t want the couple ending up with a bill for missing stuff because of a slip-up. Just stick to what you’re supposed to take and keep things nice.
Don’t Let Your Own Love Life Affect You
Weddings can stir up some not-so-great feelings if you’re having a rough time with your own love life. But getting too emotional isn’t the way to go. If you start feeling overwhelmed, just step away until you can get yourself together. If you think you’ll get too upset—it’s okay to politely decline the invite.
Don’t Dress Like a Bridesmaid on Purpose
If you don’t know what the bridesmaids are wearing, it can be super tricky to avoid this slip-up. But if you do know, try not to wear similar colors. If you’re aware of what the wedding party is wearing, it’s polite to steer clear of matching their colors or styles. This way, the bridal party will look unique and special.
Don’t Ignore the Dress Code
If the wedding invite says “black tie optional,” don’t show up in a sundress and sandals or a ball gown. Try to follow the dress code as much as you can. It’s even more important if there are religious rules to consider. For instance, if the ceremony is in a place where you need to cover your shoulders—be sure to do that.
Don’t Miss the Wedding Without Telling Anyone
If you’ve RSVP’d “yes” and then can’t make it, just skipping out isn’t okay. But if something urgent comes up, let someone know. If it’s before the wedding day, just let the couple know directly. If it’s on the big day, get in touch with a parent or a member of the wedding party to pass along your message and apologies.
Don’t Leave Your Wedding Favor Behind
The couple probably won’t notice if you leave your wedding favor behind, but it’s nice to take it with you if you’re unsure. After all, it’s a gift. On the other hand, don’t try to get one if you forgot to pick it up. While the couple might have some extras at home, you usually shouldn’t try to track one down yourself.
Don’t Bring a Plus One Without RSVPing for One
If your invite says you can bring a plus one, go ahead and RSVP for two. But if you initially said you’d come alone and then end up with a new date before the wedding, it’s better to stick with your original plan. Adding someone at the last minute can mess up the numbers for food, drinks, and party favors, which can create big problems for the couple and the event planners.