How to Attend Your First Wedding

Is watching reruns of Four Weddings the closest you’ve ever come to a real wedding? Well, unfortunately you can’t learn all the ins and outs from the W Network. From RSVPing the right way to drinking responsibly, there are a few things you definitely need to do (and not do) when attending your first wedding.

Here’s how to attend your first wedding.

Get acquainted with RSVP etiquette
Yes, you’ve probably RSVP’d to an event or two over the course of your life, but there are a few things to note when doing it for a wedding. If the couple ask you to RSVP online, there’s no need drop them a line, too. Alternatively, if you been asked to go the old-fashioned route and send back the enclosure with your details, go ahead and pop it in the mail. Note: not every guest gets a plus one, so make sure to read the card to check if it’s inviting you alone or you and a guest.

Book accommodations ASAP
Heading out of town for the wedding? Well, you’re going to need a place to rest your head after the reception has wrapped. Check the couple’s wedding website to see if they’ve reserved a block of rooms. If so, you’ll want to snag one of those fast. There’s usually a limited number available and you’ll want to take advantage of the discounted rate.

Don’t put off purchasing your gift
Once you’ve RSVP’d and secured a hotel room you can move onto the fun part - shopping. Browse through the couple’s registry and hunt down the perfect gift to send for their wedding. If you put this off too long there may only be big ticket items left, and you don’t want to commit to spending hundreds of dollars you don’t have. Tip: you can always send a monetary gift, but always pair it with a sentimental card to make it more meaningful.

Follow the dress code
The couple created a dress code for a reason, so don’t stray from it. If you can’t figure out exactly what you should be wearing, here are few clues to help you hash it out.

Don’t smother the happy couple with questions
Planning a wedding is stressful, so you don’t want to step on the bride or groom’s toes days before the event. If you really need an answer to your query (and can’t find it on the wedding website), ask one of the wedding party members to help you out. They probably know all the ins and outs of the event and should be able to give A’s to all of your Q’s.

Let the newlyweds make their rounds
After they’ve shared their first dance, the happy couple will start making the rounds. They’ll definitely want a little breathing room so let them come to you, don’t chase after them. Have a quick chat offer your congratulations and let them move on to the next table, monopolizing their attention is a big no-no.

Skip the impromptu speech
Have you been asked to make a toast at the wedding? No? Then you should probably stay seated during dinner and let the wedding party handle the speeches. Preparing a toast is a nice gesture, but the MOH and Best Man have it under control.

Drink responsibly
It’s fine to treat yourself to a few cocktails - actually, it’s expected - but don’t go overboard. You don’t want to steal the spotlight away from the newlyweds with any drunk antics, so think about capping it off after two or three drinks. This is a wedding, not a frat party and should be treated as such.

Don’t leave too early
I know, you’re a busy person with places to go and people to see, but don’t even think about making an exit until after dinner is served. The happy couple has put a lot of time, effort, energy and money into making this soiree memorable, so don’t skip its highlights.