Summer has most definitely been and gone but weddings are still in full swing, and BMA House will regularly play host to weddings over the months ahead. Weddings are a wonderful time to celebrate but there is also a wealth of traditions and etiquette that are worth remembering for guests.
Firstly, and perhaps most important is to remember that cultural diversity means etiquette changes depending on the type of wedding – but there are a few generic do’s and don’ts that are universal.
Check out the dress code and make sure you adhere to it. No bride and groom want their photos ruined by someone completely out of touch, whether they are too relaxed, too formal or have made a poor colour choice. White is generally the colour to avoid of course but there can be other pitfalls – if in doubt just ask. If you are lucky enough to have been invited it means you have a good enough relationship with someone in the wedding party to be able to ask a stupid question.
Show up! It might sound a little obvious but don’t be that person who says they will attend but doesn’t show. The couple will have spent a huge amount of time (and quite a bit of money) planning their day around a specific number of people, often personalising elements to each individual, so don’t ruin all that hard work by not being there. It is of course also worth noting the fact that you shouldn’t randomly bring children or a guest unless they have been invited too.
Show some restraint with the free bar and don’t be that person everyone is talking about the next day. Drinking too much and making a fool of yourself is a great way to upstage the couple – they need to be what everyone remembers, not your stumbling effort on the dancefloor and feet poking out from whichever bush you fall asleep under.
Put your phone away and let the professional photographer do their job – and if you do happen to take some pictures, under no circumstances share them on social media until the couple share their own.
Finally, say thank you to pretty much everyone in the wedding party. Back in the dim and distant past most weddings would have been paid for by the bride’s father. However, times have changed, and the bill could be footed by anyone from the couple to crowdfunding – so play it safe and make sure everyone knows you appreciated their hospitality.
Enjoy the special occasion.
Why not give us a call and see our magical venue for your venue own eyes?
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 020 7874 7020
Images courtesy of:
Photographer Lucie Watson (luciewatsonphotography.com)