Wedding Etiquette: For The Guest

Is it true that you either have manners, or you don't? Or, is it entirely possible to just use them when you need them? Either way, when you are invited to a wedding, there are most certainly a set of etiquette rules a guest must follow. Yup. That's right. There are rules for being a wedding guests. So read up, because you don't want to be that guy or that girl or that couple doing something completely inappropriate at your best friend's wedding. Enjoy Nina Callaway's article on Things the Ideal Wedding Guest Will Remember.

1. Don't be late! If a wedding invitation says that the ceremony will begin at 5, be sure to arrive there by 4:45 so as to give yourself time to find a seat and get settled. You wouldn't want to interrupt the processional. Avoid taking photographs during the ceremony. Leave that to the professionals and respect the sanctity of the ritual in front of you.
2. You don't need to bring a gift with you to the wedding. In fact, you have up until a year after the wedding to give a gift. Bringing a gift with you means that someone in the wedding party will have to worry about how to get it home.
3. If you are unable to attend the wedding, it is customary to still send a wedding gift.
4. Don't bring a date unless your invitation specifically says their name or "+ Guest" Remember that the cost for each person attending a wedding is generally high, so bringing unexpected guests is very impolite. This includes your children or other relatives!
5. Many ceremonies have parts where the congregation alternately stands and sits. The program or officiant may tell you when to do so; if not, follow the lead of others around you. If you are physically unable to stand, remain quietly seated.
6. RSVP promptly. The couple will be making many decisions based on the number of people who will be there. Additionally, if you must cancel after you have accepted, do so as soon as possible.
7. While a wedding is a time to enjoy yourself, no one appreciates a drunk guest embarrassing themselves. Drink alcohol in moderation.
8. Above all, enjoy yourself, and tell the happy couple that you are so pleased for them.

Have any advice on how to be the most polite wedding guest? My ears are open!

Drunk guy image courtesy of this blog