The Good Wedding Guest
Since
I’ve answered etiquette questions for decades, and because etiquette
rules change as our lives become more and more complicated, I read
extensively. Visitors deserve more than the 'old fogey' that still thinks
encore brides cannot wear white.
Yet
I do not know when, but do know why, more and more bridal couples are providing
a room for the children of guests to be entertained during a wedding
reception. Just providing a babysitter is not enough in most cases, as
children become bored, leave the room, and run around. Not all guests
appreciate being knocked over by a running nine-year-old.
So,
when did it happen? When did parents decide that they are not responsible
for their children's behavior?
A
little-known personal fact, I am a credentialed teacher.
Because of this, I look for every teachable moment and know that there are
plenty when an adult is with a child. Surprisingly, many parents do not
realize that an event such as a wedding and reception is a Teachable Moment.
This
is an opportunity to teach children
to respect others by instructing them to sit quietly during the ceremony, to
use proper table manners, to stay in their seats and use indoor voices
during the reception. The beauty of the reception is that we, as parents,
can also teach our children the art of introduction, conversation, and
mingling. This type of event is a priceless teaching tool.
Yet,
many parents focus on the fun of the wedding reception and tend to feel that it
is their child's right to use the venue as a playground. They forget that they are also 'the teacher,'
so I advise brides to plan entertainment for the child guest. It saddens
me to do so, but a stress-free wedding is what the bride wants and needs, not a
platform for teaching children.
That
is my wish though, that parents use every occasion as a teachable moment
for their children. Please be the parent your child needs and deserves.
Our next-generation depends on it.
Your
thoughts?
More
by The Polite One
What are MOG’s
responsibilities?
May I invite guests
only to the wedding?
Which is the bride’s
side of the church?
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