Share:

Weddings are wonderful occasions to gather and celebrate the happy couple’s special day. As a guest at the event, however, it’s important to be mindful of certain etiquette. Learning a few basic dos and don’ts before the ceremony and the wedding reception can be helpful, especially if you haven’t attended one before. Here’s what you should know.

Basic Wedding Guest Etiquette

Do:

RSVP on time.

Planning a wedding is a time-consuming task that requires strict organization. You can help the couple by sending your RSVP well in advance of the deadline so that they can more easily determine their complete guest list. As soon as you’re sure of your availability or inability to attend, send your response.

Bring a gift.

It’s thoughtful to give a gift to the couple, but it can be difficult to find the right item if you leave this task to the last minute. Check the registry as early as possible so that you have options, and so that you can stay within your budgetary restrictions if necessary.

Dress properly.

wedding receptionAlways pay attention to the couple’s dress code, which is usually provided with the invitation. If there’s no guidance and you aren’t certain because the nuptials and wedding reception are being held in a more unconventional setting, like the beach, don’t hesitate to ask.  

Don’t:

Drink too much.

Know your limitations. As a guest of the couple, it’s important to be both respectful of the occasion and mindful of your surroundings. Drinking too much could put you in an uncomfortable position that takes attention away from the celebration. Enjoy a celebratory toast, but don’t push your limits if you plan to drive home.

Assume you can bring a date.

Don’t assume that your date is welcome if there’s no mention of a guest on the invitation, or an option to include someone when you RSVP. The venue for the ceremony and wedding reception may only hold a certain number of people, and it’s possible the couple needed to make specific accommodations for that reason. If you do want to bring someone, ask the bride or groom in advance.

Take up too much of the couple’s time.

The couple will be fairly busy throughout the day, first during the getting-ready stages before the actual ceremony, then during the nuptials, and finally during the reception. They’ll want to express their gratitude in-person to everyone who attended, and that’s a wonderful opportunity to congratulate them and extend your well wishes. But allow them the time to move from table to table so that they can greet everyone properly.
 

If you’re planning a special event in Lake St. Louis, MO, consider the Lake St. Louis Banquet Center for the affair. The wedding venue can easily host your wedding reception, and their skilled staff is proud to assist in both the event planning and decorating processes to make it an event to remember. Call the banquet center today at (636) 561-6550 to learn more about their services.

tracking