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1. Don't bring an uninvited plus one
If you didn't receive a plus one — if you did, it will say "and Guest" on the outer or inner wedding invitation envelope — that means you'll be going solo for the evening (and yes, this is non-negotiable). The envelope should also specify if your significant other or children are invited to the big day.
2. Do show up to the wedding on time
Don't be tardy for the party! If transportation is being provided, arrive at the designated pick-up spot with time to spare (transportation details should be included in your invitation, on the website, or at the hotel). And if you're driving, give yourself enough of a cushion to account for wrong turns and traffic. Showing up late is distracting, and may interfere with the processional or photos.
3. Don't wear white
Out of respect for the bride, don't wear a white or cream dress unless you've been explicitly asked to. Also on the do not wear list? Anything too revealing or casual (i.e., something you'd wear to the club, the pool, or the gym...).
4. Do silence your cell phone during the ceremony
And no, that doesn't mean put it on vibrate. Nobody wants to hear your ringtone or that seemingly never ending buzz during the "I dos!"
5. Don't text during the ceremony
The happy couple wants to see your smiling face! Restrain from texting, Instagramming, Facebooking and the like during the ceremony. It's usually only about 30 minutes.
6. Don't post photos of the bride before the ceremony even starts
Unless the bride has given you the green light, it's common courtesy to wait until after the ceremony to post. You don't want to spoil the surprise (plus, some traditional couples choose not to see each other before the vows).
7. Don't bring an oversized gift with you to the reception.
Of course, the couple will be grateful for your gift no matter what. But it's best to mail larger gifts instead of bringing them to the reception, so they don't need to be transported home.
8. Don't drink too much.
Enjoy the open bar, but don't get so sloshed that you're dancing on the table, yelling obscenities, or making a total fool of yourself. Let the newlyweds be the life of the party!
About The Author
Founder of Wiley Events.