It’s your first time being invited to a wedding, but you don’t know what to do, don’t have anything to wear, and don’t want to make a fool of yourself. Although this is an event that focuses more on women, it’s important that everyone knows proper wedding etiquette. This guide will give you five basic tips you’ll need to be the best wedding guest ever.
RSVP As Early As Possible
The best way to begin your etiquette is by responding to the wedding invitation as soon as possible. Catering an event like this is usually charged per plate, so it’s important the bride and groom know exactly how many people are coming. If you RSVP yes, then that means you have to go, or the couple will have wasted money on an extra plate. If you RSVP no, don’t decide to attend at the last minute. This can throw off the couple, as they probably no longer have a place for you.
Another thing to be aware of is the bride and groom’s plus-one policy. If your name is the only one on the invitation, then you are not allowed to bring your significant other, your best friend, or children, unless you were given the option to bring a plus one. But remember— a plus one means only one. Don’t try to bring more than one other person.
Buy a Wedding Gift
Always buy a wedding gift, even if you can’t make it to the wedding. Most wedding gifts are sent to the couple’s house, rather than brought to the wedding. Gifts are usually sent within three months of the wedding date. Sticking to the registry is always a good plan so that way you’ll know you’re getting something that the bride and groom actually want, and you’ll know if someone already sent them the gift you’re thinking of.
A lot of couples are open to the idea of receiving money instead of a physical gift, so don’t feel bad if you’d rather just mail them a check. If you’re thinking of doing a more personalized gift that’s not on the registry, try to get them a unique keepsake that is useful and will remind them of their special day.
Dress Appropriately
One way to make sure you don’t stand out from the crowd is by sticking to the dress code. Some couples will specify on their invitations if they have a dress code they want you to adhere to. If it’s a black-tie-wedding, be prepared to buy a full tuxedo and a bow tie. If the dress code asks for cocktail attire, you still need a suit and tie, but you have a little more freedom with color choice and accessories. Don’t worry if this task seems daunting. Look for a helpful dress code guide so that you’ll know you’re wearing the right clothes.
Remember, even the best-dressed person can look out of place if he’s improperly groomed. Make sure to wash your face, comb your hair, and invest in a quality razor and shaving cream to ensure your face matches your clothes. This way no one will think you just rolled out of bed.
Put Your Phone Away
The bride and groom invited you because they wanted to share this moment with you, not so that you can share memes while the couple is saying “I do.” Keep your phone in your pocket at all times. If you really can’t go more than an hour without touching your phone, try to find an app that encourages you to put your phone down and be in the moment.
Also, refrain from posting pictures of the wedding ceremony on social media until after the bride and groom have shared pictures on their accounts. Some couples prefer their wedding to be a private event, so you want to make sure that you’re respecting their privacy.
Drink Responsibly
Once you’ve made it through the wedding, it’s time for the reception. This is the part that’s usually more fun and sometimes includes an open bar. Although it’s completely fine to let loose a little, you don’t end up doing something you will regret. You can try using a drink monitoring app to help you stay on top of how much alcohol you’re consuming.
This article was published in partnership with HARRY’S. RIZZARR did not receive money or product from the brands mentioned in this post.
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