Wedding Etiquette: What to Know Before Going to Your First Wedding

Attending a wedding is always exciting, and now that summer is here, the season of these unique celebrations has finally started. If you’ve received an invitation for the first time ever earlier this year and you’re feeling a bit lost, just know that this is completely normal. Just like any other official event, weddings have a special etiquette that you need to be accustomed to to avoid stressful situations, and this is exactly why we’re here today! Keep reading this article to find out more about the rules and guidelines of wedding etiquette to ensure that you have the perfect time this summer!

Dress Code

Weddings often have a specific dress code, be it a classic black tie, a boho-inspired look, or a set color palette that the newlyweds would like to see you wear. No matter the case, you need to familiarize yourself with the dress code before rushing to get your attire. For example, a black tie traditionally means a tuxedo for men and a floor-length gown for women, while a beach formal is typically encountered in destination weddings where a linen suit or a maxi sundress is the best outfit option. Remember that it is always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed and that if the invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the couple or someone in the wedding party.

RSVP in Time

RSVPing in time is one of the most important parts of wedding etiquette. The couple needs an accurate headcount to plan seating, catering, and more, and you definitely don’t want to end up eating a sandwich on a folding chair because you forgot to respond by the date indicated on the invitation. However, if there is no date specified, a good rule of thumb is to RSVP within a week of receiving the invitation. When you RSVP, pay attention to whether the invitation is addressed to just you or includes a guest. If it doesn’t say “and guest,” assume that you are expected to attend solo and won’t be able to bring a plus one.

Gift Giving

Choosing a wedding gift can be tricky, but there are a few guidelines to help you navigate this tradition. First, check if the couple has a wedding registry. Purchasing a gift from the registry ensures you’re giving something they want and need. It can also be acceptable to give cash, especially if the couple is saving for something specific, like a home or honeymoon. However, if you still want to make a present, choose something thoughtful, traditional, and meaningful. Irish gifts are a wonderful option, since they meet all these criteria. Get the newlyweds a soft Aran throw with heart shaped motifs that would symbolize their love, or a traditional blessing print in a beautifully crafted frame that would bless their marriage while also serving as an excellent home decoration. You can find these and many other weddings gift ideas online at https://www.gaelsong.com/prod_detail_list/celtic-wedding-gifts. Additionally, even if you’re unable to attend the wedding, it’s still courteous to send a gift. This gesture shows that you’re thinking of the couple and wishing them well, even from afar.

Ceremony Etiquette

Just like in the case of any other event, arriving on time for the ceremony is crucial. Generally, it is always better to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before the ceremony is scheduled to begin so that you have time to find your seat and settle in without causing any disruptions. If you do arrive late, wait for an appropriate moment to enter, such as during a hymn or another transitional point in the ceremony, as you obviously wouldn’t want to enter when the bride walks down the aisle. Being respectful goes without saying, so turn off your phone or at least put it on silent mode to not interrupt the ceremony. Some couples prefer to have an ‘unplugged’ wedding where they ask guests to refrain from taking pictures so the photographer can do their job without interference.