Weddings are beautiful celebrations of love, but as a guest, there are often unspoken thoughts. While couples plan their big day with the best of intentions, here are some common things wedding guests might be thinking, but won’t openly express.
Recent social media posts about disgruntled wedding guests are numerous and include complaints like couples charging guests to attend or demanding expensive gifts. The idea of being appreciative for what you get or the old saying of “it’s the thought that counts” seem to have gone out the window. But, there are a few areas that are particularly sensitive to wedding guests.
Destination Weddings Are Expensive
A wedding in a tropical paradise or a historic European city sounds magical and romantic, but for guests, it often means spending a small fortune. Flights, hotels and time off work add up quickly. If you’re having a destination wedding, be mindful that some guests may have to decline due to financial constraints.
A Cash Bar Should Be Known Ahead of Time
Guests love an open bar, but if you’re having a cash bar, let people know in advance so they can come prepared. No one likes the awkward moment of realizing they don’t have cash on hand when it is time to order a drink.
Long Gaps Between the Ceremony and the Reception Are Frustrating
A long wait between the wedding ceremony and the reception can be a buzzkill. Guests may find themselves with hours to kill, often in an unfamiliar area. If a long gap is unavoidable, consider providing refreshments or a suggested activity nearby to keep guests entertained.
Keep the Vows Short and Sweet
Your love story is beautiful, but lengthy vows can test the patience of even the most devoted guests. Keep vows heartfelt yet concise – your guests will appreciate it.
Outdoor Weddings Without Shade Are Brutal
Sunburn, overheating and sweating through formal attire are real concerns. If your wedding is outdoors, consider providing shaded areas, fans or even cold refreshments to keep guests comfortable.
Vague Dress Codes Lead to Confusion
“Dressy casual” or “festive formal” can be open to interpretation. Guests don’t want to show up over- or underdressed, so be specific about attire expectations. If in doubt, examples or photos can help guide your guests.
If You Say “No Kids,” Don’t Make Exceptions
When you specify “no children” on the invitation, but then allow some guests to bring their kids, others will notice – and they might not be happy about it. If you want a child-free event, be consistent with the rule you established.
RSVP Online, Please!
I for one, could keep Hallmark in business, because I love sending cards. Cards and letters are a throwback to an age when people took time to share their feelings, but in today’s fast-paced life, RSVPing online is the way to go. Mail-back RSVP cards are charming, but your guests might find them inconvenient, especially if you send the invite out and the RSVP gets misplaced before it is returned or gets lost in the mail.
A Long First Dance Can Feel Endless
Your first dance is a special moment, but if it drags on too long, guests may start shifting in their seats. Keep it to a reasonable length or invite others to join in after a short while.
If Guests Leave Early, Don’t Take It Personally
Not everyone can stay until the last dance. Some guests have long drives home, early work commitments or just get tired. It doesn’t mean they don’t love and support you – they just need to head out a bit earlier.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating your love, but keeping these guest considerations in mind will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience for everyone!
