Weddings are all about love, laughter, and bringing the best people together - and that means you! Couples spend so much time and care dreaming up every detail of their day, and they can’t wait to share it with you. Your energy, excitement and good vibes are a big part of what makes it all unforgettable. By showing up ready to celebrate (and maybe shed a happy tear or two), you’re helping to make the magic even brighter. To help you bring your A-game, here’s your ultimate cheat sheet of do’s and don’ts for being the guest everyone’s thrilled to have at the party!
DO...
✅ RSVP on Time
One of the simplest and most respectful things you can do is respond to your invitation promptly. A timely RSVP helps the couple secure an accurate guest count, which is essential for organizing seating, catering, and event logistics. When you confirm or decline your invitation, you're helping them avoid last-minute surprises and ensuring that everyone, from the kitchen staff to the wedding planner, can plan accordingly.
✅ Dress for the Occasion
Whether it’s a formal black-tie affair or a laid-back garden wedding, the couple has carefully considered the dress code for a reason. Follow the guidelines and avoid wearing anything too flashy or inappropriate. Remember, you’re not the star of the show - just a part of it! Your outfit should reflect respect for the couple and the occasion.
✅ Arrive On Time
Punctuality is key! Arriving late for the ceremony or reception disrupts the flow of the day and may mean missing out on important moments. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early to give yourself time to settle in and enjoy the pre-ceremony atmosphere.
✅ Respect Unplugged Ceremonies
"When guests put their phones away and stay present, the whole vibe shifts - in a good way," states Samantha Johnson of Venues at The Granary. "The photos are better, the couple feels more connected to the room, and everyone actually experiences the moment instead of watching it through a screen."
✅ Respect the Seating Chart
Don’t try to move things around or switch seats. The couple has put a lot of thought into the seating arrangements, and respecting this plan helps avoid confusion or uncomfortable situations. It's all part of ensuring the day goes smoothly for everyone involved.
✅ Be Mindful of the Open Bar
If the wedding includes an open bar, drink responsibly. Everyone is there to have a good time, but excessive drinking can quickly become a problem. Be conscious of how much you're consuming, and don’t overdo it - it’s important to keep the fun balanced and the mood light.
✅ Be Clear and Honest About Dietary Needs
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, communicate them early. This helps the couple and caterers ensure everyone is well-fed and happy, without any last-minute surprises.
✅ Mingle with Other Guests
Weddings are a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and expand your social circle. Take the time to engage with fellow guests - whether they're long-lost relatives or new acquaintances. Building connections not only enhances your experience but also boosts the overall energy of the event.
✅ Approach the Wedding with Intention
"Weddings are no longer just events; they’re curated experiences where every detail matters," says Rebecca Walls, Store Manager at Skeffington's Formal Wear (of Omaha). "Guests should approach the day with the same level of intention as the couple. That means honoring the dress code with refined, well-fitted attire, responding promptly to RSVPs, and being fully present - without a phone in hand - during the most sacred moments. Thoughtful etiquette isn’t just polite; it’s part of the luxury experience."
DON'T...
🚫 Bring an Uninvited Plus-One
Respecting the guest list is one of the easiest ways to support the couple’s vision for their day. "Don't bring a plus-one who wasn’t invited, advises Samantha Johnson of Venues at The Granary. "It might not seem like a big deal, but we see the behind-the-scenes scramble it causes - more chairs, an extra plate, shifting the seating chart. It’s not just etiquette; it’s logistics."
🚫 Wear White
White, ivory, and other pale shades should be avoided - those colors are reserved for the bride. You don’t want to outshine the bride on her special day! Stick to other beautiful hues that complement the theme without drawing attention away from the main event.
🚫 Show Up Early
"We’ve had guests arrive while vendors are still setting up or the couple’s still getting ready," states Samantha Johnson of Venues at The Granary. It can make things awkward and stressful when the space isn’t fully prepped yet. Arriving too early doesn’t help - it usually just means you’re in the way."
🚫 Criticize the Ceremony or Reception
Whether or not you like the food, the music, or the décor, keep your opinions to yourself. It’s the couple’s special day, and they’ve put a lot of thought into every detail. If something isn’t to your taste, it’s best to focus on the celebration and not dwell on minor details.
🚫 Overindulge
at The Bar
While it's great to enjoy a drink or two, excessive alcohol can lead to a less-than-ideal guest experience. From slurring speeches to uninvited dance floor “performances,” overdoing it can leave a bad impression.
🚫 Wear Over-the-Top Outfits
"We love when guests dress up - but we’re seeing a trend where some are showing up dressed like they’re trying to outshine the wedding party," shares Samantha Johnson of Venues at The Granary. "If your outfit makes people ask if you might be the bride or groom, maybe dial it back just a little."
🚫 Bring a Heavy Gift to the Wedding
Bringing a large or heavy gift to the wedding can create unnecessary stress for the couple and the venue. Instead, send the gift directly to their home beforehand. It saves space and ensures that the couple doesn't have to worry about transporting a bulky gift after the wedding.
🚫 Snag Decor
Those gorgeous floral arrangements aren't party favors (unless stated otherwise). Unless explicitly mentioned, don’t assume you can take home any of the floral decor. Taking items without permission can lead to the couple incurring extra charges for missing pieces.
🚫 Ignore RSVP Deadlines (or Show Up Without Responding)
"From a venue perspective, not having an accurate guest count makes things tricky - not just for us, but for the couple," states Samantha Johnson of Venues at The Granary. "Seating, catering, layout - it all hinges on that number. We always encourage couples to follow up, but it would be amazing if guests just responded the first time."
Photo by MadShew Media; courtesy of Venues at The Granary
