Etiquette for Wedding Guests by cledGer66 | Feb 11, 2020 | Blog It’s no secret that weddings are a stressful time for the happy couple– especially when a destination wedding is on the horizon. The couple must meticulously plan every detail from afar, and don’t want to have to spend too much time worrying about their guests. By following these easy “dos” and “don’ts,” you can take a world of stress off your friend’s and family’s shoulders. DO RSVP Credit: Wedding Templates and Printables It is crucial that the couple knows exactly who is attending their wedding so they can properly plan for seating at the venue and reception space, as well as other details like wedding favors. This is especially important for destination weddings. Don’t wait until last minute to tell the couple whether or not you can go, and definitely don’t show up without informing the couple. Send your RSVP back to the couple the moment you are sure you can attend the wedding. DO be early Credit: rawpixel It is always considerate to show up to a wedding early, so not to interrupt the flow of things, but during a destination wedding this is especially important. With how quickly weather can cause problems for travel plans, do what you can to arrive at the wedding location as early a you can. If you can avoid it, don’t cause the couple unnecessary strife by booking a flight that lands on the day of the wedding. Get there the night before the wedding at the very latest. DO be mindful of the photographer Credit: Royal Wedding While watching the couple’s life-changing moments transpire, make sure you are mindful of the photographer’s whereabouts. Avoid blocking the camera lens with your head. Don’t photobomb and ruin the couple’s photos of their ceremony and reception. DON’T assume bringing a date is okay Credit: Mike Staff Productions The only time it is okay to bring a plus-one is if the wedding RSVP explicitly mentions it. Destination weddings are expensive, and whether or not the invitation mentions bringing a guest is almost always related to the budget. Leave your significant other at home unless the wedding invite specifically says their attendance is permitted. DON’T bring a large gift Credit: The Knot Not only will you have to consider transporting the gift to the wedding venue, but so will the couple. While the object will be appreciated, it is better to have a large gift shipped to the couple’s home as opposed to forcing the couple to shove it in their luggage and traipse through the airport with their already massive bags. DON’T forget to turn off your phone! Credit: Cricket’s Photography One of the worst things you can do is let your phone ring during wedding vows or speeches at the ceremony. Put your phone on silent, or at the very least on vibrate, before big ceremony and reception moments.