I love a good nuptial celebration…and realize that some people may need to take a refresher on what is considered good etiquette for wedding guests (or prospective guests) Let us take a look a few general guidelines:
- Answer all invitations promptly. A general rule is to respond within a week of receiving the invitation.
- Although I see formal invitations sent less and less, should you receive one that is written in the third person, it must be answered in the same way. If a reply card is enclosed (which to me means that it is semi-formal) you indicate your acceptance or regret on the card.
- It is bad taste to ask to be invited to a wedding even if you feel you have a close relationship with the bride or groom.
- If, after accepting an invitation, it becomes necessary to cancel, call the bride or groom and explain why as soon as possible.
- Asking to bring a friend to the wedding is bad form.
- Do not ask to bring your children if they haven’t been invited. Even if they are invited, consider their maturity levels before accepting for them. One of the worst things to deal with at a wedding is the bored or hyperactive child who runs around hell-bent on annoying people.
- It is rude to skip the ceremony and only attend the reception.
- You are not obligated to send a present if you simply receive a wedding announcement. However, if you are given an invitation to the wedding, customarily you are expected to send a gift (even if you do not attend.
- Remember that the day belongs to the happy couple. It is especially important not to do anything that will take attention off of them. (No inebriated toasts!)
Best Guest Wishes,
The Lady Hooper-Brackett
The Lady Hooper-Brackett 