Attending weddings can be a stressful event in our lives. This is especially true if the bride is a close friend. Very few such traditions remain where old-fashioned cordiality matters as much. For this reason, it’s not surprising that so many women seek advice on what to do at their friend’s wedding.

Weddings are among the most memorable social occasions in our modern lives. Being invited to one is an honor.

So what does it mean to be the perfect wedding guest? It’s not as complicated as it sounds, and here’s a brush-up on wedding etiquette.

Mind Your Manners

The first thing you have to do is offer congratulations and hug the bride and groom. Say the right things, rather than trying to be funny and disruptive. Save your wild sense of humor and side-splitting one-liners for a more casual occasion.

When chatting with the bride during the event, be aware of what’s going on around you. If, for example, you notice she came up with some wonderful wedding flower ideas, compliment her on it. Perhaps her careful flower arrangements included roses, hyacinths, lilies, and peonies. These flowers symbolically represent the importance of nature and growth. They’re often chosen for weddings because they are reputed to set the perfect mood for the event.

Other things you can do to behave politely include:

• Showing up on time for everything (from sending in your RSVPs to attending the ceremony). 
• Saying thank you and please often.
• Finishing food and drinks served.
• Not gossiping about anything to anyone (no matter how tempting or how unlikely to be overheard).
• Refrain from bringing up any controversial discussions with fellow guests.
• Avoid complaining about food service or anything else that could have been done better.

Stay Respectful All Day Long

A perfect wedding guest is respectful. Show up with good intentions and stay positive.

If restraining yourself in this way seems a little too stifling and unnatural, think about comedy movies. What makes wedding scenes so hilarious is a boorish guest. They say or do something that embarrasses people or causes fights. This doesn’t play well in real life.

Being respectful at a wedding could also mean that you’re mindful of the bride’s vision. So if she made a specific request in her invitation, like no gifts or no flowers, then follow her lead. You may not agree with her sentiments, but now is not the time to assert your difference of opinion. Of course, if there are no such constraints, bring flowers and give thoughtful gifts.

Carefully Choose Your Wedding Guest Dress

When it comes to choosing your wedding guest dress, there are many factors to consider. The color, length, and style all depend on what type of event you’re attending.

If you aren’t sure what to wear, there are plenty of wedding guest dress ideas online. 

Why Etiquette Still Matters in the Modern World

Weddings are very special occasions. It is, in many ways, the beginning of a new life for the bride and groom. That’s why it stands out as one of the most important events in a person’s lifetime. It’s also an occasion that requires a lot of cordiality from each guest.

All guests who wish to celebrate with dignity and respect should behave impeccably. They should know the rules of wedding etiquette as well as what to wear, what gifts to bring, and how to behave during this celebration. Etiquette rules have been in practice for many centuries. Their importance has not diminished over time.