Off to a wedding? Don’t end up being the talk of the day for all of the wrong reasons with our handy guide to wedding guest etiquette. The wedding day should be all about the happy couple, so we have some top tips on how to ensure they have the best time and the focus remains solely on them.
RSVP asap
Even before the wedding day arrives, you can do the bride and groom a huge favour by sending an RSVP once you receive the wedding invitation. As much as you, individually, mean the world to the happy couple, with numbers restricted at most venues, they will have a backup list of others to invite, just in case. So, do confirm if you can attend or not, so they can make the most of their allocation.
Follow the RSVP instructions, too. You may be asked for dietary requirements or a menu selection. You may also be asked to RSVP to the wedding invitation in a specific form of correspondence or to a specific address. Don’t just send a WhatsApp to your mate, even if the bride is your best friend! Plus, there are some gorgeous acceptance cards to choose from.
dress appropriately… and not in white!
Some wedding invites will offer a dress code. However, some couples may not care what you wear. But, one golden rule is to avoid wearing white, cream or ivory. This is essential if you know the bride is wearing a traditional wedding dress. After all, you want her to be the centre of attention on the big day.
It can also be handy to find the chosen colour for the bridesmaids and maid of honour outfits. You may also want to find out about the groom, best man and ushers – so that you don’t accidentally look like a slight mismatch of the bridal party.
Most importantly, wear something you feel fabulous in! You’ll be in it all day. You'll want to enjoy the delicious wedding breakfast and, most likely, party until late. Make sure you feel comfortable and then you can really focus at having fun at the wedding all day.
arrive on time
Early is even better! We all know the tradition for the bride to be late, but it’s a definite 'no' for the guests. No one wants to intercept the bride on her arrival, or slip in the back and disturb the ceremony.
Make sure you know where you are going and leave in plenty of time. Ensure you know where to find the venue, understand where there is parking, or how to get there using public transport. And remember, the earlier you are, the better seat you’ll get!
put your phone on silent
Imagine the moment when they ask, "If anyone knows a reason why these two shall not be wed, let them speak now or forever hold their peace" and just in that moment, your phone rings... That's a 'let the ground swallow me up' moment.
It’s just not worth thinking about - so don't let yourself be in that position. Whether it’s the bride and groom exchanging vows or the best man’s speech, just pop your phone on silent. It’ll also help you to focus on the special moments of the day.
stand until the newly-weds arrive at the wedding breakfast
This is probably a bit old-fashioned, but did you know you should remain standing at your allocated seat until the couple arrive for the wedding breakfast and take their seats?
Stay standing and raise a toast. Give them a clap and a cheer as they enter the room. Make the newly-weds feel extra special as they are announced and enter together for the first time as a married couple.
hit the dance floor
We all love a good party, and the reception of any wedding should be a time of fun, laughter and celebration. The couple will have chosen their favourite band or DJ, but even if it’s not to your taste, make the effort and take the chance to have a dance.
For the newly weds, there’s nothing better than seeing a dance floor full of their guests enjoying themselves – old and young. No matter the music get involved and encourage others to, as well!
give a beautiful wedding gift
If the wedding invite includes a gift list or a request for certain items, then the etiquette and safest choice is to purchase something the couple have asked for. However, if there isn’t a gift list; the items are outside of your budget, or the couple have suggested the gift list is optional, then it is okay to choose something else.
We highly recommend a wedding hamper. We have sophisticated but simple options such as our Mr & Mrs Champagne & Treats Gift Box. Or, for something a little more sophisticated and special, browse our Champagne Celebration Wedding Hamper.
At hampers.com, we have a wonderful selection of carefully curated wedding hampers and gifts. Browse our wedding gift guide for more inspiration, too. All of our wedding hampers are available for delivery to a choice of UK destinations, in time for the special day.
happy wedding memories for all
Whilst the wedding day is traditionally ‘all about them’, many couples love seeing the guests having a great time. It's wonderful to witness friends from all areas of the bride and groom's life, as well as family, who have known you forever, all together in the same room. If they are all happy and having a good time, then that is one of the most precious elements of any marriage celebration.
As a wedding guest, have a good time, smile and enjoy yourself. Savour every moment of celebrating a special day, because that’s the best ‘etiquette’ tip we can recommend.