Guest Advice
All you need to know for a remarkable experience
Guest Advice
All You Need To Know For A Remarkable Experience
WEDDING GUEST SURVIVAL GUIDE
Invited to a wedding? Yay! You're going to have a great time, you'll witness people you love committing to each other. By asking you to help them celebrate, they're showing you that you're an important part of their life and they deeply value your friendship.
But attending an event can also create anxiety: there is a lot of formal etiquette to being a wedding guest so we'll guide you away from the most common pitfalls so you can enjoy every moment!
READ THE INVITATION
This will give you all the basic information like who is invited, what to wear and what time to arrive but sometimes the language is formal or unclear. Let’s break it down.
RSVP
You cannot attend if you haven’t confirmed your place. Always RSVP as soon as possible after receiving an invitation so your hosts do not have to track down final numbers or cater to surprise guests.
WHEN TO ARRIVE
Always aim to be at the venue 15 minutes before the ceremony park time. This gives you time to say hello to other guests, find a seat and absorb the moment
WHAT TO BRING
Gifts are often sent directly to the couple’s home via a registry but bring a card to express your best wishes.
TAKING PHOTOS
Most couples invest in a professional photographer so you can relax and enjoy the event. Do not feel you need to capture any pics unless specifically asked.
WHAT TO WEAR
Most weddings are formal – that means a sports jacket and tie or suit for gents and a dress or stylish separates for ladies. If the dress code is unusual, it will be very clearly detailed for you.
- Black tie = tuxedo / floor length gown
- Cocktail or ‘semi formal’ = sports coat / knee length dress
- Casual = sundress / khakis / tailored shorts
MASKING UP
If you would feel more comfortable wearing a mask, please do so. If the couple has strong views on mask-wearing, they will share their thoughts in the invitation or on their wedding website and you can follow their directions.
GO SILENT
Always, always, always turn off your phone or at least put it on silent before the ceremony starts. No one wants to be that guy...
IF UNSURE
Rather than contacting the couple directly, the best man/maid of honor or a member of the wedding party can usually provide an answer.
AN INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BEING THE BEST WEDDING GUEST
Read on for real wedding stories and helpful tips to help you attend with confidence and grace!
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Real Wedding: Sarah & Tony's Carmel Fields Celebration
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Real Wedding: Jena & Manuel at Lindsay Grove in Mesa, AZ
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Colorful Garden Wedding at Carmel Fields
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Spooky Splendor: Haunted Mansion Wedding
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Adam & Elise's Wedding Planning Journey