April 4, 2023

7 Things Wedding Guests Should Never Do

Weddings are exciting events that bring together friends and family to celebrate the love and history between two people. At a wedding, you want to have fun, though you also want to ensure you’re being a great guest and not leaving behind any bad memories in your name. Today I’m sharing 7 things wedding guests should never do so you’ll be prepared to avoid these and be the perfect wedding guest.

7 Things Wedding Guests Should Never Do. How to be the perfect wedding guest.

1. Wearing White

This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s worth mentioning. White is reserved for the bride in many cultures, and wearing it as a guest is a huge faux pas. Even a white dress with a pattern on top is iffy, so when in doubt just avoid white.

Intimate 25 person wedding on a rooftop outdoors. Cavin Elizabeth Photography

2. Bothering the Couple Before the Wedding

Wedding planning is a stressful time. The last thing the couple needs is unnecessary stress from guests bombarding them with questions right before the wedding. If the couple has a wedding website, check it out before asking the couple. Most of your questions will likely be answered there.

3. Bringing Uninvited Guests

Wedding guest lists are carefully curated and the couple has invited specific people for a reason. Bringing an uninvited guest is not only disrespectful but can also cause logistical issues for the couple. Bring only who was listed on the invitation.

Croquet lawn cocktail hour at Rancho Valencia photographed by Cavin Elizabeth Photography

4. Ignoring the Unplugged Ceremony Request

If you see signage or hear an announcement about an unplugged ceremony (a ceremony asking guests to refrain from photography), please heed their request. It’s essential to respect their wishes and be present in the moment with them.

5. Taking Up Too Much of the Couple’s Time

While it’s tempting to catch up with the couple during dinner, it’s essential to remember that they have many other guests to attend to. Try not to monopolize too much of their time and give them space to enjoy their meal. 2 minutes is a good rule of thumb for dinner table visits. On the dance floor, you can spend more time with them.

Bride and groom first dance for wedding at Rancho Valencia. Cavin Elizabeth Photography

6. Giving Impromptu Speeches

Speeches are typically reserved for the wedding party and family, and for good reason. Giving an impromptu speech can be awkward and take away from the planned speeches. Rehearsal dinners are more likely to have an open mic opportunity.

Vietnamese Lion Dance for a wedding. Lion dancers. Cavin Elizabeth Photography

7. Complaining About the Wedding

Weddings are expensive and time-consuming to plan, and the couple has likely put a lot of effort into making it a special day. Complaining about the wedding is not only rude but can also bring down the mood for everyone else. Only share positive words and energy on the wedding day!

SHARE THIS STORY
COMMENTS
EXPAND
ADD A COMMENT