Receiving your first wedding invitation is bound to be exciting, but you might be unsure about how to successfully prepare for the big event. If you have never attended a wedding before, you might not know what to wear, how to find unique wedding gifts, and what you need to do next. It’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed, but with the right preparation, you can ensure you’re ready to celebrate the joyous occasion.
To help you easily prep for a loved one’s special day, read the below advice for attending your very first wedding.
Never Bring an Uninvited Guest
One big mistake you should never make is bringing an uninvited guest to a wedding. Review who the invitation is addressed to, so you don’t bring along a guest who hasn’t got a seat at a reception table. For example, it might state yours and your partner’s name, or it might say “… and guest”, which allows you to bring a plus one.
Know the Dress Code
Most traditional weddings will have a similar dress code. Male wedding guests will be required to wear a smart suit, while many women might choose to wear a beautiful dress, which can be complemented with stunning fascinator hats and a clutch purse. If you want to look picture perfect at a wedding, pick a color and design that fits the season. For example, a floral outfit is ideal for a spring or summer wedding.
Arrive Early
Only the bride and her bridesmaids can show up late to a wedding. While you might want to be fashionably late, this could lead to you missing out on the ceremony. If anything, you must arrive 15 minutes early to easily find a seat and await a bride’s arrival.
Take a Seat on the Correct Side at the Ceremony
It is customary for guests of the bride to sit on the left side at a ceremony, and for the groom’s guests to sit on the right side. While this is an old tradition that might have faded a little in some venues, it’s a point worth considering when you’re unsure where to sit during a ceremony. So, sit on the side of the person you feel closest to. If you are close to both the bride and groom, don’t overthink your choice and just sit where you like!
Put Your Phone on Silent
Few things will kill the romance more than the sound of a person’s cell phone ringing or buzzing. Make sure to place your phone on silent as soon as you step foot inside the wedding venue, and also make sure your phone will not ring during the reception speeches or the first dance.
Present the Happy Couple with a Gift
Presenting the happy couple with a wedding gift is customary. While some couples might have a wedding registry that will allow you to pick an item from a list, others might leave it up to their guests to choose the perfect gift for them. If you have chosen to give them money, make sure to place it in an envelope with a thoughtful card, as there will likely be a box where you can drop it off.