How To Be A Good Wedding Guest

Some advice to help guests know what to do and what not to do at a wedding...taken from hours of my own observation of guests at weddings... enjoy and please take to heart!

* Arrive on time for the ceremony. If you are late, don't try to squeeze into a seat ahead of the assembled processional of bridesmaids. Certainly don't try to beat the bride into the church. You can always view the processional from the vantage point of the lobby or vestibule and take a seat in the back of the auditorium once the bride has reached the front of the aisle.

* If you RSVP saying you'll attend the wedding and reception - SHOW UP unless there is an actual emergency.

* Dress appropriately for the occasion! Seriously guys, wear a suit or other dress clothing. Girls, it's always stylish to wear a nice dress that covers the areas that should be covered. A good rule of thumb is: if you can't wear it to the office, don't wear it to a wedding. Also ladies, underwear is not optional... I'm just saying...

* Don't walk in on the bride or groom using the restroom. If you do, don't stare at her/him or try to start a conversation.... how awkward!

* Don't use the votive cups on the tables as a shot glass for the liquor you brought in. Wait, don't bring your own liquor unless the invitation clearly states BYOB.

* Don't melt, burn or otherwise set fire to the decorations (including table covers and linens). The bride and groom have paid good money for those items and some may be rented.

* Don't drink too much. An open bar is no excuse to get sloppy drunk at a wedding reception.

* Bring a decent gift; something you wouldn't mind receiving on your wedding day.

* Don't use the disposable cameras for inappropriate photos from under the table or the bathroom stalls.

* Don't tell the caterer, bartender, wedding coordinator, DJ, decorator, pastor, or other vendor how to do their job. They know their job, stop bugging them and allow them to do it.

* When possible, stay longer than dinner. You'll miss out on a lot of fun if you leave early but....

* Don't stay too late either. Receptions usually end after about 3.5 hours.

* Don't take the Bride and/or Groom outside for a private chat or otherwise monopolize them. It's their party, they have other guests!

* Don't leave a mess on the tables. It is likely there is no one getting paid to clean up after you. The couple's families will have to spend late night hours after the reception cleaning up when they're exhausted.

* Don't complain about the food...it's what the couple wanted to eat and serve. You're an invited guest, choose something different for your own special occasion.

* Finally, unless your invitation specifically states that you may bring a guest (ie.: Ms. Jane Doe & Guest), don't bring one. There's almost nothing worse than having uninvited guests show up at a wedding!

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