Your Ultimate Guide to Proper Wedding Etiquette: Top 25 Tips

Weddings are one of life’s greatest joyous occasions. Whether you’re attending as a guest or playing a more integral role in the wedding party, there are certain etiquette rules to honor. Proper wedding etiquette is all about being respectful, courteous, and thoughtful to the couple, their families, and other guests. In this blog, we’ll take you through our top 25 tips for proper wedding etiquette to ensure that everyone has an unforgettable day.

1. RSVP Promptly – Make sure you RSVP on time so the couple can finalize their guest list and wedding plans.

2. Dress Code – Follow the dress code indicated on the invitation, and if you’re unsure, ask the couple or wedding planner for clarification.

3. Arrival Time – Arrive on time or even better, a little early. No one wants a straggler disturbing the ceremony.

4. Unplugged Ceremony – If the ceremony is an unplugged event, kindly turn off your phone and avoid taking photos until the ceremony is over.

5. No Plus One – If the invitation does not say “plus one,” it is best to assume that you’re not allowed to bring a partner.

6. Don’t Wear White – Leave the white dresses to the bride; you don’t want to steal her thunder!

7. Dietary Restrictions – If you have any dietary restrictions, make sure you inform the couple and the catering team in advance.

8. Gift Registry – Use the couple’s gift registry to buy gifts, so they don’t have to deal with returning duplicates.

9. Arrive Prepared – Have cash or a gift prepared in an envelope to give at the wedding.

10. Seating Arrangements – Respect the seating arrangements made by the couple and wedding planners to ensure that everyone has a comfortable seat.

11. Toasts and Speeches – Keep your toasts and speeches concise, avoid offending anyone and remember to toast to the couple.

12. Dance Floor – Be polite and mindful of others while on the dance floor.

13. Dress Appropriately – Dress appropriately through the entire event, especially if it’s a religious ceremony.

14. Social Media Posts – Avoid posting too many pictures or videos on social media; remember to ask the couple’s permission if you want to post anything.

15. Kids at the Wedding – If children are invited, make sure they are supervised, and their parents are comfortable with where they’re headed.

16. Return the RSVP – If you RSVPed “yes” but can’t make it after all, let the couple know as soon as possible.

17. Thank You Notes – Send a thank-you note to the couple to show your appreciation for being invited and for hosting such an unforgettable wedding.

18. Etiquette during the Cocktail Hour – Avoid overindulging during the cocktail hour; you don’t want to be the dancing fool later on.

19. Don’t Be Late – Try your best not to be late for any wedding-related activities, including the rehearsal dinner.

20. Respect the Newlyweds – The newlyweds will probably be very busy during their wedding day, ensure to avoid engaging them unnecessarily.

21. Respect Religious Customs – Respect religious customs during ceremonies.

22. Don’t Overdress – Avoid over-dressing for the occasion.

23. Respect the Bride & Groom’s Wishes – Follow the couple's wishes on things like no alcohol, smoking, or other things that the bride and groom would not appreciate.

24. Don’t Upstage the Couple – Avoid behavior that would upstage the couple like wearing extravagant attire or upstaging their toasts.

25. Congratulate the Couple – Remember to congratulate the couple at every opportunity.

We hope that our top 25 tips for proper wedding etiquette have helped you become a better wedding guest or wedding party member. Proper wedding etiquette is all about respect towards the happy couple, their family, and their other guests. Remember to be courteous, thoughtful, and considerate at all times, and you’ll be guaranteed a great time. Happy weddings to all!