Tis the season to be married! Yes, wedding season is upon us and in full swing and no matter how many weddings we attend there is always a surprise etiquette faux pas. Wedding ceremonies have become so creative that there is no hard and fast rule on how you “should” have your ceremony. But there are some things you should keep in mind as a guest.
Being a good guest:
- Respond to the invitation as quickly as possible and don’t assume that your friends are invited also
- Don’t always assume that the wedding will not start on time. Your job is to arrive on time and support the bride and groom by doing so. If you arrive late, remain in the foyer until the usher finds an appropriate time to seat you. If there is no usher, slip in quietly and sit in the rear
- The couple did not hire you as their professional photographer, so step out of the way of the hired photographer with your cell phone
- Ladies (sometimes men as well) do not try to out-dress the bride and call attention to yourself
- Silence your cell phone. It’s not your day
- Don’t be post happy! Do not post any pictures of the couple on social media without asking their permission first
- Do not save seats for latecomers…they are late and should not have precedence over guests who have arrived on time
- Respect traditions that are unfamiliar to you
- If there is a receiving line, give your brief congratulations and keep it moving…there are others behind you
- Do not move place cards or ask someone to change places with you. Use that opportunity to get to know someone you don’t know
- Don’t be a lush, drink responsibly if you choose to have alcohol. Never take the spotlight away with intoxicated antics from those who are being celebrated
Toasting:
- If you plan to give a toast, prepare your brief speech beforehand especially if you are not one to “think on your feet”. This will save you from those cringe-worthy moments and looks of shock from fellow attendees. With that said keep it short and to the point
- Do not bang on your glass to get attention. Simply stand
- The bride and groom never salute themselves on a toast made in their honor. In other words, they don’t drink
- Be sure to have all glasses full before toasting so that guests are not drinking air
These are just a few tips to make your time with the new couple more enjoyable. I have one wedding to attend this year and I look forward to being the best guest I can be.
