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Just the Facts: Wedding Etiquette Tips

 

Etiquette Tips for Guest

As a guest, it is important to remember that you are not the focus.  Keep that in mind.  It is easy to be a courteous guest. 

Attire

  • Unless it is part of the culture of the bridal couple, guests do not wear red.  It steals the show.
  • Avoid revealing attire.
  • Dress in the formality of the event.
  • When in doubt, ask the couple or a member of the family what the dress code is.

Behavior

  • Avoid being too loud.
  • Be observant and respectful of traditional wedding and reception elements.
  • Remember that it isn’t all about you.  

Yikes! Alcohol Consumption

  • No brainer!  Don’t overindulge. 
  • Drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to avoid embarrassing yourself and others. 

Etiquette Tips for Gift Giving

Couples, please remember that the shower is optional and wedding guests invited to the shower are then responsible for two gifts, one for the shower and one for the wedding, so be kind, thoughtful, and grateful.  When registering, also register for small, inexpensive items for the shower. 

Etiquette Tips for the Shower

Couples

  • Please don’t expect a shower; it is optional.
  • Never request one.
  • Family shouldn’t host.
  • Don't request cash or gift cards—not appropriate shower gifts.
  • Consider the gift-less shower.

Guests

  • Shower gifts are supposed to be less expensive than wedding gifts.
  • The gift may be a personal choice and not from the registry. 
  • Consider the couple when choosing a gift. 
  • Money is never an appropriate shower gift. 

Etiquette Tips for The Wedding

Couples

  • Don't expect cash gifts.
  • None of the gifts should be used until after the wedding.
  • Handwrite thank-you notes as soon as you receive a gift.

Guests

  • Those not attending the wedding are not obligated to send a gift.
  • All wedding gifts should be shipped to the couple’s or the bride’s home.
  • Consider the couple when choosing the gift. 
  • The gift may be a personal choice and not from the registry. 
  • If allowed to bring a date, this person is not obligated to give a gift. 

More by The Polite One

Wedding Etiquette Attire Interview: What are Today's Taboos?

Anti-Clueless Advice: How to Plan a Wedding That Doesn't Insult Guests

Encore Wedding Planning

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