A new era of wedding etiquette has dawned with constantly evolving trends and developments in social media. You may think this only applies to the bridal party and their relatives but it’s also important for guests to know how to be on their best behaviour. With many of us attending two to three weddings per year, there are modern faux pas you need to avoid and traditional ladylike laws to adhere. These simple rules will make the best wedding guest ever!
RSVP By the Deadline
Good wedding guest etiquette begins from the moment you receive your invitation. It may surprise you that many guests leave it to the last minute to respond with their attendance. Late RSVPs only escalate the stress level of the bride who will be tearing her hair out over costs, final numbers and table plans. So be a darling and make a concerted effort to respond swiftly. And don’t presume plus ones and children are a given either, it’s perfect manners to double-check these details ahead of your acceptance.
Girl Code Still Applies
An emerging trend this year and always the subject of a fiery debate; it’s best to stick with tradition and avoid wearing white to your pal’s big day. It has become less of a taboo subject in recent years with many celebrities and mothers-of-the-bride opting to make a bold statement by wearing the crisp colour. This look is very elegant when paired with a sun-kissed tan and will suit a range of seasonal colour palettes. But the spotlight should firmly be on the happy couple as they tie the knot. Let the bride have her time to shine and stand out from the crowd. After all, it’s not very nice to do something hurtful that would leave your friend feeling upset or uncomfortable.
Arrive On Time
Yes, it’s common practice for the bridal party to arrive late on the day. Be punctual and arrive early to be seated and enjoy some pre-wedding mingling. Stumbling into the ceremony as the couple stand at the altar is not only embarrassing but it is also extremely disrespectful. Avoid this faux-pas by ensuring military precision and organisation in the lead-up to the nuptials. Have your essentials laid out the night before and download any necessary information such as directions to the venue.
Ceremony Selfies Are Not Okay
Let’s get one thing straight; selfies during the ceremony are not cool. Not only will you be blocking the view but you may be going against the couple’s wishes to ban social media throughout their day. Posting snaps of the bride’s gown on Facebook and Instagram without her permission will ruin the element of surprise and god forbid if her future spouse sees a picture before she arrives at the chapel. Challenge yourself by going unplugged for the day. Switch off your smartphone and be fully present during the magical festivities. You may be surprised by how much fun and engaging conversation you can have offline!
Don’t Be the Fake Paparazzi
Every bride wants all eyes on her as she steps up the aisle. Not a sea of smartphones and flashing cameras distracting her during the most important walk of her life.
Of course, you will have the best intentions when snapping a picture of the first kiss. But this harmless action is hindering the photographer’s chance to catch the most intimate moments of the ceremony. And considering most couples spend upwards of one thousand euro on a photographer and videographer for the day, it’s understandable that their wedding pictures should be flawless. So take a seat and relax in the knowledge that your services are not needed until later on in the evening.
Be Gift Savvy
Choosing a wedding gift can be a daunting task, with most of us mortals breaking out in a cold sweat at the mere thought of what to pick. When it comes to deciding on a gift, there are many factors to consider. Are the newly-weds already living together or will they be buying their first home together very soon?
Most modern couples have already set up house together before exchanging vows. Protocol for this situation requires a monetary gift. It may be tempting to buy that stunning crystal vase at the local heritage shop but cash is the better alternative here. This gesture will be appreciated as it can be used towards the honeymoon budget or decorating their new home. If you would like to opt for a more personal touch, why not book a voucher which can be used for a weekend away later in the year. This will give the newly-weds something to look forward to after all the celebrations have finished.
Drink Responsibly
The open bar may initially look exciting but try to hold some composure and spare a thought for your fellow comrades. Every bride’s worst nightmare, you don’t want to be the drunken mess blamed for causing a major wedding disaster. Ensure you fill up during the banquet meal to line your stomach and pace yourself steadily as the night goes on. Your liver will also thank you the morning after.
Image Credits: We Heart Lit; Martha and George Photography.
