Underrated Ways to Be a Great Wedding Guest

Wedding season is upon us. Maybe you’re in the phase where it seems like everyone you know is getting hitched, and your weekends are booked. Maybe you’re at the tail end or completely out of that stage, with only a random wedding here and there. Wherever you’re at in this progression, it’s safe to say that being a wedding guest is a much different experience than being the ones getting married. You might think your only job is to show up, and that’s not totally wrong. But you can do better! Here are 4 underrated ways to be a great wedding guest:

Dish out marriage positivity.

Although it’s not always intentional, newlyweds often get bombarded by backhanded advice that views marriage through a negative lens. You know the ones – insinuating that the newlyweds’ days of freedom are over, referring to one spouse as the “ball and chain,” etc. Remarks like these are typically said in jest, and we’re all for a humorous perspective. Try flipping this script by taking the positive route. You might share your own anecdotes or things you’ve learned so far that can provide encouragement, inspiration, and excitement for all that’s yet to come in their life together. Consider what it means to be invited to someone’s wedding. Your presence and support in starting this chapter of their life is meaningful to them, so take pride in that privilege.

Lean into the romance.

Some people love weddings. Others are less enthusiastic. Wherever you fall, consider them an opportunity to get dressed up, spend some quality time with your spouse, and enjoy the celebration of love – both the newlyweds’ and your own! It’s not often that everyone is in this romantic mindset and focused on celebrating marriage, so take advantage of it! Reminisce about your own wedding day, and reflect on how your relationship has grown since then. Tell your spouse what you love most about them, and what new things you’ve learned about each other. Even if you’re not typically the most romantic partner or couple, a wedding is the perfect time to lean into that a bit more.

Let newlyweds enjoy the moment.

There is a tendency for people to grill newlyweds on what’s next. One question in particular seems to get asked a lot: Are they having kids and if so, when? It’s understandable. Friends and family are typically excited for the couple to start a family. Couples that already have children can’t wait to welcome the newest members to the parent club. Just keep in mind that this can sometimes be a sensitive or private subject for couples. Even if they’ve made decisions on the topic, they might not feel comfortable sharing with everyone yet, so try to avoid pressuring them for answers. The day goes by so unbelievably fast, so let them bask in the here and now of their big day.

Participate!

While the day is technically about the bride and groom, that doesn’t mean they don’t put in effort to ensure guests have a great time. The last thing they want to see is an empty dance floor or no one taking part in the little extras they’ve set up to make the day memorable for everyone. So hit up the photo booth a couple times, share some pics using the wedding hashtag, and bust out your best dance moves early instead of waiting until the end of the night. Your energy and enthusiasm are contagious – don’t be afraid to contribute to the celebratory vibe!

From a timely RSVP to following the dress code, there are a lot of wedding etiquette do’s and don’ts that a simple Google search will give you answers on. These simple tips hopefully provide a bit more insight that will lend to a fun, memorable day for you and your spouse, as well as the newlyweds.