How to be a great wedding guest

How to be a good wedding guest

Getting an invitation to a wedding is special. The couple marrying have planned their guest list and it
includes you! Weddings these days come in all shapes and sizes, however some things never change.
Rocking up to a wedding has some do’s and don’ts. Here are 20 tips on how to be a great wedding
guest.

1. RSVP on time – reply to the invitation regardless of whether you’re going or not.
2. Dress appropriately. Better to be over-groomed than turn up looking way too casual.
3. Arrive on time for the marriage ceremony.
4. Good manners never go amiss.
5. Greet the hosts, introduce your partner/spouse.
6. Ask where to put your wedding gift unless it’s obvious.
7. Be attentive, read signs, listen to instructions.
8. Suppress the urge to take a peek where signs say private.
9. Never take alcohol or drugs or turn up pre-loaded.
10. Go easy on the alcohol, drink plenty of water.
11. Avoid smoking unless it’s made clear that it’s ok.
12. Be aware of your surroundings, the tone.
13. Have your mobile phone on silent during the ceremony and reception speeches.
14. No photos unless it’s ok. Many couples have an unplugged ceremony with no photos or
    social media posts.
15. Suppress your urge to cheer, clap, whoop, whistle, interject or laugh inappropriately during
    the marriage ceremony and reception speeches.
16. The signing of the marriage licence is not usually the end of the ceremony, try to avoid
    starting a conversation with others until after the married couple ‘walk down the aisle’.
17. If you’ve brought your children manage their restlessness during the formal stuff and leave
    the ceremony or reception with them. Many couples try to have activities for kids.
18. After the ceremony it’s the reception then party time, however, one should never be ‘overly
    familiar’ with any of the bridal party or parents.
19. Show your moves on the dance floor after the bride and groom’s first dance.
20. Know when it’s time to leave, express your thanks and travel home safely.

A wedding is a splendid occasion even if it’s a tiny laid-back beach occasion. Support the couple and
their family to make it a great and memorable occasion for all the right reasons.