A Quick Guide For Worthwhile Wedding Ettiquette
While we do have to invest our own effort, some financial investment and a free day to the cause, it’s true to say that being invited to someone’s wedding is a privilege. It’s nice to see someone thinks of you on their special day, hoping to share it with you. There are certain benefits too, such as reconnecting with your family or old friends, getting to dress up and eat some nice food, as well as, if you’re lucky, an open bar.
However, it’s also true that despite all of this, we are just guests. It’s best to be polite and respectful and let the happy couple have their day. If this is your first wedding attendance, or perhaps you haven’t been to one in a while, it can be good to review our etiquette ahead of time and know what’s expected of you.
Of course, a lot of this is common sense. We’re sure you’re more than presentable and a great guest to have at any event. But as weddings are relatively specific affairs, you may wish to consider some of the following advice:
Dress Appropriately
In some cases, the wedding planners and wedding couple may have specific requirements for certain guests, such as the groom, or perhaps everyone else in attendance. To match with the overall aesthetic, red wedding ties may be a fantastic means of finishing your outfit. Or perhaps you can organise wearing something more culturally or ethnically authentic, for instance, planning to wear Scottish dress kilts as part of the theme of the overall event, or contacting the planners ahead of time about how to wear a sherwani, which is considered appropriate dress for men in Indian weddings.
It can never hurt to send a quick picture to whoever invited you asking if that kind of outfit is appropriate. That shows a willingness to respect the event. Of course, it’s best not to wear white or black, the former is reserved for the main couple unless stipulated otherwise, and black is of course more appropriate for funerals and professional events.
Plan Your Route Ahead Of Time
Now, no one could blame you for feeling a little unfamiliar with certain surroundings. This is especially true if you’ve flown out to a new country and a new climate based on the compex planning of your wedding couple.
Planning your route ahead of time is important though, so that on the day you can meet everyone at the right time and won’t leave everyone waiting around. It’s customary to wait for the bride or groom, but never the guests. So, even if you have a smartphone or GPS, printing out directions can be key. Practicing the route, if you like, is worthwhile. It might even be worth setting off a little earlier than needed and grabbing a coffee nearby so you can arrive at the perfect time.
Try Not To Indulge Too Much
If there’s an open bar, well, it’s not often you’ll see that kind of opportunity. This can inspire us to indulge, and to become absolutely roggled, to use an informal term. But the last thing you want is to make a scene, or to become the most noticeable at the event. So, try to limit yourself. Spread every drink out with water. Dance with people, and have fun, but don’t overdo it. This way, you can avoid any embarrassing photographs or stories.
With this advice, you’re sure to plan for the best etiquette at any wedding.
