10 Ways to be an Amazing Wedding Guest

Help make your loved ones’ day special.

By: Zia Thompson

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Be the Guest of Their Dreams

Although weddings are joyous, fun occasions, they require a lot of work to plan and execute. While the newlyweds-to-be handle the planning, it's the wedding guests who can help make the process go as smoothly as possible for everyone involved, both before and after the couple says, “I do.” From sending your RSVP back on time to participating in the fun and games at the reception, here are some ways to be the dream guest at your favorite couple’s wedding.

Be Supportive

First and foremost, be happy for the newlyweds. It’s a simple suggestion, but one that can make all the difference. Stay open-minded, and keep the positivity flowing from the engagement party to the after-party. You’ll not only be the best guest, but you’ll have an amazing time too!

Offer to Help

The planning and execution of a wedding takes a lot of manpower, so if there’s anything you can do to help, no matter how big or small, lend a hand. Help make wedding favors, suggest songs for the reception playlist or share any connections you may have with vendors. The newlyweds will love you for it!

RSVP! RSVP! RSVP!

Make sure you RSVP for the wedding and do it on time. Vendors, venues and caterers require a final headcount for food and seating arrangements, and failing to RSVP can make things difficult for the couple. Also, make sure that you are only bringing a plus one if you are permitted. Showing up with an unannounced date is a major faux pas and will cause confusion as they scramble to accommodate you. Save them the stress and RSVP promptly.

Stay in the Moment

The very fact that you were invited to a wedding shows that you are one of the couple’s closest family members or friends. They wanted you to celebrate with them, so get off your phone and stay in the moment. It’s fine to snap a few pictures here and there, but don’t spend the entire time posting on social media. The couple wants to see your smiling face, not a phone, so unplug for a few hours and take part in the festivities.

Mingle

Weddings are great places to meet new people. Take advantage of a fun, celebratory environment and the time to get to know others in the wedding party and the other guests. Sit next to someone you don’t know at the ceremony or reception and start talking. You already have at least one thing in common: the newlyweds! Start from there and see where the conversation goes. Who knows? Your new best friend may be right in front of you.

Adhere to Themes and Dress Codes

When you get the wedding invitation, make sure you read it carefully and note any themes or dress codes to adhere by. If the newlyweds-to-be want guests to wear a certain color, clothing article or particular fashion, respect their wishes and dress the part.

Remember to Get a Gift

Make sure to get your newlyweds a great gift that they’ll love. Try to get something the couple will get a good use of that is in line with their hobbies or interests.

Don't Crowd the Newlyweds

It is totally natural to want to spend time with the newlyweds but be cautious of overcrowding. Everyone is going to be clamoring for their attention, so help take some of the pressure off by giving them a little space. Definitely greet them, and feel free to chat, but don’t monopolize their time.

Arrive on Time

Fashionably late does not apply at weddings. You won’t want to miss the ceremony so make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes early to grab your seat with plenty of time to spare. If there is an emergency permitting you from getting to the festivities on time, make sure you aren’t interrupting anything important (like the vows!) before you slide in and take your seat.

Don’t Be a Wallflower

Don’t stand on the wall or stick by your seat. Be sure to participate in the dancing, fun, games and other wedding festivities. Don’t worry about looking silly, everyone is doing it. Just relax, have a great time and enjoy all there is to offer!