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Weddings are magical celebrations of love, laughter and happily ever after, but for guests, facing the big day can be like walking a tightrope of unspoken rules and expectations.
Between dodging the bride’s train on the dance floor and debating whether it’s okay to post that perfect cake-cutting photo on Instagram, being the ideal wedding guest comes with certain responsibilities on your special day.
Angela DeMaio, wedding etiquette expert at US-based Bouquet Casting Co, knows all too well the mistakes even well-intentioned guests can make.
The expert shared with the Manchester Evening News his insight into five common guest mistakes and how to avoid them.
Ignore the seating arrangement
One of the most common mistakes guests make is ignoring the seating plan.
It may seem harmless to change seats or sit wherever you feel comfortable, but this can disrupt the couple’s carefully planned arrangements.
DeMaio said, “Seating arrangements are often put together with thought, taking into account relationships and group dynamics.”
Weddings are magical celebrations of love, laughter and happily ever after, but for guests, facing the big day can be like walking a tightrope of unspoken rules (file image)
According to the expert, ignoring the seating arrangement can upset the balance the couple has tried to create.
To respect your efforts, it’s important to note where each guest is seated.
If you are unsure of your seat, feel free to ask the host for clarification rather than assuming a spot.
Getting in the photographer’s way
Weddings are a once-in-a-lifetime event and the photographer’s job is to capture precious moments of the couple’s big day.
However, sometimes anxious guests get in the way, blocking the shot or entering the hallway at the wrong time.
According to DeMaio, guests should especially avoid stepping down the aisle during the procession or getting in the way at key moments, such as the couple’s first dance.
Being patient and respectful of the photographer’s space ensures that the couple gets the perfect shots without interruptions.
The photographer’s job is to capture precious moments, but anxious guests sometimes get in the way, blocking the shot or entering the hallway at the wrong time (stock image)
The expert also encourages guests to wait until the photographer has finished his work and to be careful to let the couple share their photos first.
Having too many at the open bar
While many guests look forward to the open bar, moderation is key to ensuring the evening is enjoyable for everyone.
No one wants to be remembered as the guest who drank too much and caused a scene.
DeMaio warned: “Weddings are joyful occasions, but they are not the time for drunken antics or behavior that distracts from the couple’s special day.”
She urges guests to drink water between alcoholic drinks and to remember to be respectful of other guests and staff.
While many guests look forward to the open bar, moderation is key to ensuring the evening is enjoyable for everyone (stock image)
without saying goodbye
As night falls, it’s easy to head out early, especially after a long day of celebrating.
However, not acknowledging the partner before leaving may come across as rude or dismissive.
DeMaio suggested, “If possible, personally thank the bride and groom for the invitation, as it’s a small gesture that goes a long way.”
For those who need to get away from the event early, the expert suggests being discreet and making sure you have expressed your gratitude to the couple at some point during the day.
Leaving without acknowledging the couple can make them wonder if you really valued the celebration.
Posting photos on social media without permission.
In the golden age of social media, it’s tempting to share every moment of your wedding, but this can have unintended consequences.
Because the big day is deeply personal, most couples prefer to have control over when and how their wedding photos are shared, so discretion is key.
According to DeMaio, it’s essential that guests wait until the couple has posted their own photos before sharing anything.
For weddings where phone use is prohibited, guests are advised to be respectful, as they may risk upsetting or irritating the newlyweds by sharing photos they have been asked not to upload.