Wedding Season Wisdom

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ET I Q U E T T E T I PS POLISHED PEYTON

by Jennifer Daniel

Wedding Season . W I S D O M .

While we just wrapped up my favorite time of the year, wedding season comes in a close second. The dresses, the food, the parties, the family and friends they gather…I love ALL of it. Not much can dampen this love-filled occasion and by following these etiquette tips, you are guaranteed to have the best season of all.

When you receive an invitation to a wedding, there is one very important thing I want you to remember: You have been selected by the groom or bride to witness one of the biggest moments of his or her life. Do not take this for granted. Be thankful, gracious, and make an effort to get to know other guests. You each mean a great deal to the happy couple. Some other things to keep in mind:

Fly Solo If Necesary. Weddings are expensive and there is a guest list. If your name is the only name on the envelope, then you are the only one invited, no plusone. Period. End of story. If the bride and groom mean for you to bring a date, your envelope will read “Ms. Eleanor Louise Wall and Guest.”

Arrive on Time. I know you like to be fashionably late, but in this case, it’s not appropriate. Walking in after the bride is NOT acceptable. I always try to arrive thirty minutes before the wedding invitation states. This gives you time to find your seat and speak to those around you. Dress the Part. Does the invitation state black tie? If it does, that’s what you are wearing.

Jennifer Daniel is a graduate of The Protocol School of Washington and she may be reached at Jennifer@polishedpeyton.com or visit her website at polishedpeyton.com.

No Posting Pictures Yet. Give the bride and groom the courtesy of being the first to share. Take as many selfies as you wish but wait until the next day to post on social media. Also be mindful of the pictures you post. Less is more.

Grab a Babysitter. Unless your child is in the wedding or you have confirmed with your hosts that children are welcome, do not show up with children.

Be a Great Guest. Whatever you need to do, do it. Everyone on the dance floor? You are IN. Line up to tell the happy couple good-bye? Be the first one there. It’s your friend’s big day, help make it amazing and one of the most memorable.