Here’s your guide to being an A+ wedding attendee!
Decoding Wedding Guest Etiquette: A Comprehensive Guide
By: Anna Crisostomo
Entering the realm of a friend or family member’s wedding is an honor, signifying that you hold a special place in their past and future.
As you step into the role of a wedding guest, remember that you’re an embodiment of joy for the couple. To make the most of this experience, consider these simple yet significant tips on guest etiquette.
MIND THE DRESS CODE
Feeling out of place due to underdressing at a formal affair is no one’s idea of a good time. Ensure your attire aligns with the venue and the couple’s instructions.
If you’re opting for a dress, skirt, or a stylish pantsuit, steer clear of white or any shade resembling the bride’s attire. Let her shine in white while you choose a different hue for your outfit. For female guests, avoiding head-to-toe white is advisable, and be mindful of specific dress codes for multicultural weddings.
RSVP ON TIME
The RSVP date on the invitation isn’t a mere suggestion—it’s a crucial deadline for the couple to finalize arrangements. When you receive a wedding invitation, take a moment to absorb the details.
Respond promptly to let the soon-to-be-married couple know if you’ll attend. This helps avoid seat shortages, food mishaps, and unnecessary stress for the couple.
RESPECT THE GUEST COUNT
The invitation indicates whether you’re permitted to bring a plus one. Stick to the specified number of guests, and don’t bring uninvited children, especially if the wedding is designed to be kid-free. I’ve attended multiple weddings where guests brought uninvited children.
If the couple wanted more attendees, they would have extended the invitation accordingly.
ARRIVE PUNCTUALLY
This is not the place to practice Filipino time. Assume that the ceremony begins at the time listed on the invitation and plan your arrival accordingly, aiming to be 15 to 30 minutes early.
Arriving late may disrupt the proceedings, and sneaking in during the ceremony or just before the wedding party is not ideal. However, arriving excessively early can cause inconveniences for the vendors, so find a balance.
PREPARE A THOUGHTFUL GIFT
Gift-giving is a part of wedding etiquette. While traditional norms allow up to a year for sending a gift, it’s courteous to explore and purchase from the couple’s wedding registry before the nuptials.
Check their social media invitation, paper invitation, or wedding website for a gift guide or monetary suggestions.
KEEP OPINIONS POSITIVE
On the big day, the couple’s efforts to create a memorable celebration should be cherished. Avoid expressing negative opinions on aspects like the food, decorations, or attire.
If you have positive feedback, feel free to share it, but reserve any critiques for a more appropriate time. You don’t need to mention how expensive the wedding is or express if it didn’t meet your expectations. The couple has invested time and resources to make their day special. Let’s focus on the pure love of two people.
Enjoy the festivities and make beautiful memories as a wedding guest!