Weddings are exciting events that bring together friends and family to celebrate the love and history between two people. At a wedding, you want to have fun, though you also want to ensure you’re being a great guest and not leaving behind any bad memories in your name.

1. WEARING WHITE

Unless the couple request that you wear white then this may seem like an obvious one, but it’s worth mentioning. White is reserved for the bride in many cultures and wearing white as a guest is a huge faux pas. Even a white dress with a pattern on top is iffy, so when in doubt just avoid white.

2. BOTHERING THE COUPLE BEFORE THE WEDDING

Wedding planning is a stressful time. The last thing the couple needs is unnecessary stress from guests bombarding them with questions right before the wedding. If the couple has a wedding website, check it out before asking the couple. Most of your questions will likely be answered there.

3. BRINGING UNINVITED GUESTS

Wedding guest lists are carefully curated, and the couple has invited specific people for a reason. Bringing an uninvited guest is not only disrespectful but can also cause logistical issues for the couple. Bring only those who were listed on the invitation.

4. IGNORING THE UNPLUGGED CEREMONY REQUEST

If you see signage or hear an announcement about an unplugged ceremony (a ceremony asking guests to refrain from photography), please heed their request. It’s essential to respect their wishes and be present in the moment with them.

5. TAKING UP TOO MUCH OF THE COUPLE’S TIME

While it’s tempting to catch up with the couple during dinner, it’s essential to remember that they have many other guests to attend to. Try not to monopolize too much of their time and give them space to enjoy their meal. 2 minutes is a good rule of thumb for dinner table visits. On the dance floor, you can spend more time with them.

6. GIVING IMPROMPTU SPEECHES

Speeches are typically reserved for the wedding party and family, and for good reason. Giving an impromptu speech can be awkward and take away from the planned speeches. Rehearsal dinners are more likely to have an open mic opportunity.

7. COMPLAINING ABOUT THE WEDDING

Weddings are expensive and time-consuming to plan, and the couple has likely put a lot of effort into making it a special day. Complaining about the wedding is not only rude but can also bring down the mood of everyone else. Only share positive words and energy on the wedding day!

8. Bring children if they were not invited & let take over the dance floor

If your children are invited, your invitation will say “Smith Family” or have every name listed. If it’s not clear, do not make assumptions! Contact the bride and ask. If they are invited, it really is not cute that they are taking up the entire dance floor. Time and place and when alcohol is involved, this is NOT the time.

9. Skip the ceremony

Don’t just show up for the free food and drinks! You’re sort of missing the whole point of the wedding if you do.

10. Show up late.

Don’t be late for any part of the day. It’s just plain rude.