What are some of the rudest things you can do at a wedding?

First of all, if you RSVP’d “yes” and don’t feel like going anymore, that’s not a good reason to skip.

Weddings bring out all kinds of emotions—and sometimes, all kinds of behavior! No matter how much planning goes into the big day, there always seems to be that one guest who unintentionally stirs things up. Before you head to your next wedding, take a moment to brush up on these common faux pas so you can avoid being that guest (and let the bride have her well-deserved moment to shine!)

Arriving Too Early

Sure, being on time is important, but showing up to the ceremony more than 30 minutes early might actually cause some extra stress for the couple. They’re probably busy with last-minute details, and arriving too soon could interrupt the flow. If you’re super early, it’s better to hang out in your car for a bit rather than risk accidentally running into the bride before the ceremony and adding to the chaos!

You Arrive Late

As a general rule, try to arrive at the ceremony and be in your seat about 10 minutes before it starts. Walking in while the bride or groom is heading down the aisle isn’t ideal and can disrupt the special moment—plus, it can affect the photos and videos being captured. Let’s make sure the focus stays on the happy couple!

Getting Aggressive During the Bouquet Toss

Being too enthusiastic during this tradition isn’t the best look. You don’t want to seem overly eager, and you definitely don’t want to look like you’re catching a football pass! Let the bouquet land naturally where it’s tossed, and avoid any pushing or shoving—it’s all about keeping things fun and friendly.

Letting The Couple Know Something Has Gone Wrong

Between celebrating their special day and making sure their guests are having a great time, the newlyweds already have plenty on their minds. If something goes wrong during the wedding, try not to mention it to the couple or their close family—they don’t need any extra stress on their big day! If it’s really bothering you, let the wedding planner or venue staff know instead.

Helping Yourself To The Bar

Grabbing a beer at the bar? Go for it! But a whole bottle of champagne (or something stronger)? Probably not the best idea. For starters, Tennessee isn’t a self-serve state, so it’s actually illegal. Plus, you don’t want to be the one everyone’s talking about at your friend’s wedding, right? Keep it classy and let the waitstaff or bartender handle the pouring—it’s what they’re there for!

Switching Your Order at a Plated Dinner

If you RSVP’d for “chicken” or “fish” on the invite, changing your mind last minute can make things tricky for the host. The only exception? If you discover there’s an ingredient you’re allergic to in your dish. In that case, it’s totally fine to politely ask to switch from fish to chicken. Otherwise, sticking with your original choice is the way to go!

You Take the Vase And The Flowers

It’s pretty much tradition that wedding guests can take the floral centerpieces from the dining tables. But just a heads-up—this doesn’t include the vases! The last thing you want is for the couple to get stuck with an extra bill. If you really love the vase, it’s a good idea to check with the wedding planner first to see if it was rented from the florist.

Complaining About The Food

When it comes to dinner, it’s best to avoid complaining about the food—it’s just not polite. Sharing negative opinions might come across as rude, so try to be gracious and enjoy being part of the couple’s special day. Even if the meal isn’t five-star gourmet, remember that the couple has likely put a lot of thought and expense into it. Plus, the day is about celebrating love, not just the food!

Acting Bored or Tired

As peak wedding season wraps up, it’s totally normal for your excitement to attend yet another wedding to fade a little. But here’s the thing: Once you’ve committed to going, no matter how many weddings you’ve already been to that month or how inconvenient the timing might be, make an effort to be excited and give it your all for the couple. Think of it this way—would you want someone sulking at your big day? Probably not!

Ignoring The Dress Code

If a wedding invitation says “black tie optional,” it’s best to skip the sundress and sandals. Likewise, a ball gown might be a bit much for a casual wedding. Try your best to follow the dress code—it shows respect for the couple and the occasion. This is especially important if there are religious considerations, like a ceremony in a place of worship that requires covered shoulders.

Intentionally Dressing Like A Bridesmaid

If you’re not sure what the bridesmaids’ dresses look like, this little mishap might be hard to avoid. But if you do know, try to steer clear of their color palette. It’s always a nice gesture for guests to avoid looking like they’re part of the wedding party. Opting for a different color or silhouette helps keep the bridal party special and easy to spot—plus, it’s a simple way to show some extra thoughtfulness!

You Can No Longer Attend And Don’t Let Them Know

If you RSVP’d “yes” but don’t feel like going anymore, that’s not a great reason to skip—but life happens! If something urgent comes up and you can’t make it, it’s important to let someone know. If it’s before the wedding, you can tell the couple directly. But if it’s on the wedding day, try reaching out to a parent of the couple or someone in the wedding party to pass along your message and apologies.

You Don’t Take Your Favor

The couple probably won’t notice if you leave your wedding favor behind, but it’s still a nice gesture to take it with you (it is a gift, after all!). On the other hand, if you forgot to grab one, it’s best not to try and track it down. While the couple might have a few extras at home that you could ask about, most of the time, it’s better to let it go.

You Don’t Acknowledge The Newlyweds

At a big wedding with, say, 300 guests, it’s totally understandable if the happy couple doesn’t get a chance to chat with everyone. But it’s always nice to try and say a quick hello, goodbye, or congratulations. (Though definitely give them some space while they’re eating!) If you didn’t get a chance to connect with them, no worries—just reach out the next day with a call or email to share your congratulations and let them know what a great time you had at the wedding.

Don’t RSVP For A Plus One But Bring One Anyway

If your invite includes a plus one, feel free to RSVP for two. But if you originally RSVP’d for one and later meet someone special as the wedding date gets closer, it’s best to stick to your solo plan. Changing it last minute can mess up the food, drinks, and party favor count—and no one wants that!

Not Turning Off Your Phone During The Unplugged Ceremony

The background music to “I do” definitely shouldn’t be your ringtone! But if your phone does happen to go off, don’t stress—just quickly find it, turn it off, and refocus on the ceremony. Chances are, everyone else will follow your lead and do the same.

Texting The Bride On Her Wedding Day

Even worse: the text is asking for details or advice. This is their big day with so much going on, and they should be able to relax and enjoy it without added stress. Already hit send? No worries! Just follow up with another text letting them know you’ll find the assistance, help, or answers they need from someone else.

Adding Your Own Private Narration To The Ceremony

Aside from the occasional (and very quiet) “aww,” it’s best to keep chatting to a minimum during the ceremony. Save your personal comments for after the wedding. It’ll make the moment even more special!

Not Being Respectful Of The Couple’s Religious Beliefs

No matter your personal beliefs, it’s always important to honor the bride and groom’s choices on their special day. Choosing not to participate in or respect certain religious rituals during the ceremony can unintentionally upset the couple or their families. That said, staying true to your own faith is important too. If a ritual doesn’t align with your beliefs, the best approach is to step back politely—stay quiet or pass on participating, but avoid drawing attention to it. It’s all about showing respect while staying true to yourself!

Sitting In The Front Row

No ifs, ands, or buts about it—don’t grab a seat in the front row unless you’ve been invited! Even at a casual wedding, tradition says to leave those prime spots for family or the wedding party. That said, there’s always an exception! If an usher seats you up front, enjoy the view and soak in the moment.

Bringing An Uninvited Guest

Surprises during high-stress events like weddings are best avoided. If the couple didn’t specifically mention that you could bring a plus one, it’s safer not to assume you can. Every guest adds to the costs for the couple or their family, and no one wants an awkward moment where your uninvited guest doesn’t have a seat at the reception. Let’s keep things smooth and enjoyable for everyone!

Wearing White To The Wedding

You should never outshine the bride! Unless she gives you the go-ahead, steer clear of wearing white—it’s a big no-no at weddings. White is for the bride—and only the bride. This isn’t an outdated rule, it’s just about being thoughtful. Don’t worry, your cute white eyelet dress will have plenty of other chances to shine at another event!

Competing With The Bride’s Updo

Think beyond the dress! Brides want their hair to shine on their big day, so it’s a good idea to skip hair accessories or fancy styles that might outshine them. Even the beautiful flower crown trend is best left to the bride and her bridal party.

Forgetting to RSVP

How would you feel if someone just strolled into your house for Sunday dinner without letting you know first? You’d probably be a little surprised, right? Well, it’s the same for weddings! Couples give guests plenty of time to RSVP and even include a stamped envelope to make it easy. They can’t finalize their plans until those RSVPs are in, so keeping them waiting isn’t exactly ideal. And showing up unannounced? That’s definitely not the way to go!

Bringing A Large Gift To The Ceremony

Whatever you do, don’t make the newlyweds lug a heavy box of kitchenware back home! Big gifts can be a hassle for couples, especially since their car is probably already packed to the brim after the wedding. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy them a larger present—it’s just more thoughtful to have it shipped directly to their home. That said, don’t show up to the reception empty-handed! Bring a handwritten card and let them know the real gift is already waiting on their doorstep.