While some etiquette rules have gone out the window and seem to be less fashionable, there are still some you must follow at every wedding.
Picture perfect
With the popularity of smartphones capable of taking great pictures, every guest thinks they can get the perfect wedding picture. The problem with this however is that they most often than not get in the way of the real photographer.
As a guest, make sure the professional photographer isn’t going for the same shot. And never upload any photos from a wedding to social media until after the couple does.
Always return your RSVP
The RSVP card is not just meant for fashion and it is alarming how many guests simply don’t return an RSVP card. Couples base the entire day on their guest count so it really is unacceptable to turn up without notice.
Send your RSVP in as soon as possible. Very few things frustrate a couple more than having a number of guests missing in action. Once you commit, you have to show up.
And don’t forget to write your name on the RSVP card! It’s amazing how many blank cards couples receive and they have no idea who it belongs to! Don’t be one of the five percent of guests that sends in their RSVP one week or less before the big day.
Dress code
The most important rule concerning dress seems to be to follow the instructions laid down by the bride. Most couples will clearly state the dress code on their invitations so guests need to pay attention to their wishes.
There is a particular wedding guest etiquette rule that almost everyone agrees on, and that is the fact that guests should never wear white, ever!
Some wedding experts believe that the colour white should be reserved for the bride the entire wedding season, including bridal showers and engagement parties, bachelorette parties, dress shopping outings, rehearsals, and bridesmaid brunches.
Under no circumstances should you wear white to a wedding. It is universally known that a bride will, in all likelihood, choose some shade of white for her big day, and therefore, all guests are expected to let her have the spotlight by choosing other shades.
Bringing Someone Along
When it comes to bringing Someone along for the celebration, it is best for guests to study their invitation carefully. Weddings are expensive. Only those whose names are on the envelope are invited.
It is not OK to bring more than one guest. Due to the family relationship, the bride and groom usually feel obligated to accommodate but it is usually not a pleasant experience for them. And if the invite isn’t specifically addressed to you and a guest, plan on attending alone.
Gifts and gratitude
Bringing a gift is mandatory when attending a wedding, unless the couple have specifically asked guests not to. However there are wedding gift etiquette rules to asking for gifts and you have every right to feel ruffled if you receive a demand for a gift.
When it comes to gift giving, give what you can afford and, what you feel is most appropriate. If you ship your gift to the couple’s home and are wondering if it was received, you can expect a thank you note within a few weeks.
