Bliss and bouquets, dancing and dresses, cakes and cocktails - the joys of a wedding are never-ending! If you're fortunate enough to be on the guest list, get ready for a fun night of celebrating your loved ones' nuptials. It's important to remember, however, that there are certain social etiquette rules you must follow as a wedding guest. Avoid drama and hard feelings by never saying these six things to the bride - at the actual wedding or during the wedding planning process.
Table of Contents:
1. "There Wasn't Anything Good on Your Registry"
When perusing the bride and groom's registry, it's not hard to raise your eyebrows at the options available. After all, how are you supposed to put together a decent gift when there are only serving spoons and washcloths on the list? If this is the case, hold your tongue and refrain from asking the couple for other gift ideas. They have enough to worry about without you criticizing their choices. Instead, opt for a gift card or cold hard cash. If you do need ideas, check out 21 Lovely Wedding Gift Ideas.
2. "Why Am I Not a Bridesmaid?"
Avoid cringe-worthy awkwardness by never questioning the bride and groom's wedding party. Choosing the bridesmaids and groomsmen can be a stressful process for the couple as they try to navigate obligatory family members and preventing hurt feelings. Oftentimes, the final selection is based more on convenience than who they consider to be their closest friends. Don't be offended if you weren't asked to be a bridesmaid, and you'll probably have more fun attending as a guest anyway.
3. "When I Got Married..."
Yes, we know your wedding last year was the party of the century, but today is not your day. While those centerpieces and bridesmaid dresses might tempt you to mention how much better the décor was at your own wedding, hold back. You had your fairytale wedding, and now it's time to celebrate someone else's special day. Unless your expert advice is specifically requested, keep the focus on the bride and groom.
4. "How Much Did This Cost?"
You know the age-old adage: Never talk religion, politics or money. This is especially true for weddings, where money can be a sensitive subject as it is. Even if the reception is full of ice sculptures and filet mignon, refrain from asking about the bottom line to avoid sounding tacky. On a similar note, don't askwho is picking up the bill either. Your only job is to enjoy that filet mignon, not worry about money.
5. "Do IReally Need to RSVP?"
This simple question is sure to make a bride yank her hair out. While it may be well-intentioned, the truth is that this comes across as lazy and inconsiderate. If RSVPs didn't matter, the couple wouldn't have asked for them. Most venues need an exact head count 2-4 weeks out so they know how much to charge for food. By not returning your RSVP, you could be affecting the seating arrangement, place cards, total costs, etc. Simply put, take the 30 seconds to check the box and lick the envelope.
6. "Can I Bring a Plus One?"
This last faux pas might just be the worst. Asking to bring a date is one of the most common yet frustrating faux pas you can commit when it comes to weddings. If your invitation does not include "and guest" or your significant other's name, assume they are not invited and just RSVP for yourself. Weddings are expensive, and there might not be enough room in the budget to include plus ones. Furthermore, you should be attending to show your support for the bride and groom, not have a free date night.
If any of these questions are on the verge of escaping your mouth, take a deep breath and replace them with foolproof phrases, such as "I'm having a wonderful time," "You look beautiful," or "Let me know if I can help in any way." Raise that champagne flute and say cheers to matrimonial bliss!
