Wedding Guest Etiquette: 50 Things Guests Should Never Do at a Wedding
Wedding Guest Etiquette: 50 Things Guests Should Never Do at a Wedding
Attending a wedding is an honour. You’re there to celebrate love, support the couple, and witness one of the most meaningful days of their lives. But even the most well-intentioned guests can accidentally cross a line—especially after a few glasses of champagne.
My name is Randy, and I’ve been a lead wedding photographer for more than 10 years, and during that time I have seen it all. From subtle etiquette slips to full-blown wedding guest disasters, these moments can disrupt the day and sometimes even end up immortalized in photos forever.
To help you be the perfect wedding guest (and avoid becoming a “wedding guestzilla”), here’s a comprehensive guide to what wedding guests should never do—from ceremony faux pas to reception missteps.
Ceremony Etiquette Mistakes to Avoid
The ceremony is the most emotional and intimate part of the wedding day. Respect is non-negotiable.
Never:
Arrive late and disrupt the processional
Show up if you didn’t RSVP
Bring an uninvited plus one
Bring a pet unless explicitly invited
Wear white or ignore the dress code
Leave your phone ringer on
Text, scroll, or take calls during vows
Steal seats reserved for immediate family
Stand up during “speak now or forever hold your peace”
Join the recessional instead of waiting your turn
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about attire or timing, check the wedding website or ask ahead—never assume.
Reception Faux Pas That Guests Often Forget
The reception is meant to be fun—but fun still comes with boundaries.
Never:
Bring your own alcohol, keg, or party games
Make a dramatic outfit change to steal attention
Give a toast unless you were asked
Hijack the microphone
Try to join the band or DJ
Start a conga line during emotional dances
Make excessive or inappropriate song requests
Alcohol & Behavior: Where Things Go Wrong
Celebrating is encouraged. Losing control is not.
Never:
Hit the bar too hard
Have shot-for-shot competitions
Spill drinks on the couple
Get overly flirty with family members or staff
Perform a striptease during the garter toss
Hit on the bride or groom
If you wouldn’t want it photographed—or remembered—it’s probably not a good idea.
Food & Seating Etiquette Mistakes
Yes, the couple planned the menu carefully.
Never:
Ignore the seating chart
Pull your chair up to the sweetheart table
Insult the food
Sneak appetizers into your purse
Bring your own meal
Eat the cake before it’s cut
Complain loudly about allergies at the table
Photography & Social Media Boundaries
As wedding photographers, this one matters to us.
Never:
Act like paparazzi
Step into the aisle during the ceremony
Photobomb every shot
Take embarrassing Snapchats of the couple
Post unflattering images before the couple does
Remember: Unplugged ceremonies and social media guidelines exist for a reason.
Social & Emotional No-Nos
Weddings are about them, not you.
Never:
Gossip about the couple or wedding party
Talk about divorce statistics
Complain about being single
Voice negative opinions about marriage
Propose to your partner
Announce a pregnancy
Make the day about your life updates
Kids, Decor & Venue Respect
If children are invited, supervision is essential.
Never:
Let kids run wild
Steal centrepieces or decor
Take hotel or bathroom products
Start food fights
Treat the venue like your own home
Final Thoughts from Mandy & Randy Weddings
Great weddings aren’t just about beautiful venues and stunning photography—they’re about shared respect, joy, and intention. Being a thoughtful guest helps ensure the day unfolds smoothly and becomes a memory everyone cherishes.
And trust me—when guests follow good etiquette, the photos are always better.
If you’re planning your own wedding and want timeless, candid storytelling that captures the real moments (not the awkward ones), Mandy & Randy Weddings would love to be part of your day.
