Wedding Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
While wedding season is year-round, fall is the busiest time of year for couples to get married. The weather has cooled down, but it is still as beautiful as ever. As we fall deeper into this marvelous season, expect to have your fair share of wedding invitations coming your way.
If you are flying single, get out on the dance floor and approach someone that catches your eye. (Photo: Getty Images)
If you are a professional wedding goer or crasher, you probably know the rules of the road. However for those who are wedding newbies, you may need a bit more guidance on how to go about this big event.
For starters, are dates a must? Technically, the answer is no. Unless you specifically have a plus one, that invitation is for you and you only. However if you are so lucky — or unlucky for some — this means you need to find yourself a date ASAP.
It can be your significant other, someone you have been seeing or someone new. But if you take the risk of bringing a random person or being set up, you run the chance of an unpredictable night — good or bad. A better option may just be to bring a close friend who you know will be a good time. This way they can serve as you wing woman or man as you check out the rest of the singles at the ceremony.
Another common question concerns alcohol and how much you can drink. Yes, alcohol is liquid courage and can be useful if you are trying to meet someone new at a wedding, but be advised that you should proceed with caution. Just enough can kick things off and more will keep it going, however too much can ruin the whole night. Know your limit before going all out, but still have a good time and let loose. But at all costs, avoid being “that drunk” at the wedding. It is the couple’s big day, not your’s to go down in history.
Have a good time and let loose this wedding season, but don’t become “the drunk” at the wedding. (Photo: Masterfile)
Moving on, are gifts mandatory? It is less mandatory and more courtesy, but it is definitely expected. This couple is putting out a lot of money to have you there, so the least you can do is look at their registry and pick something nice out. If you are coming with a date, make sure you get something even better to come from both of you.
So there you have three simple rules to keep in mind at your next wedding. Bring a date if you date, but going solo may turn out being a better time. Don’t drink too much unless there is an open bar, then be careful. And lastly, bring a gift. It is really not that hard. Remember for once, this day isn’t all about you. Let the bride and groom be the center of attention for one night.
