'I've attended hundreds of weddings - these common mistakes make you a bad guest'

Weddings are joyous, nerve-wracking and filled with excitement – not just for the couple but for their guests as well.

It’s a day where love takes centre stage and everyone comes together to celebrate a beautiful union. However, being invited to such a huge event also comes with its own set of expectations and responsibilities.

Angela DeMaio, a wedding etiquette expert from Bouquet Casting Co, a company which specialises in bouquet preservation and wedding advice, has shared her insight into the most common guest mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure you’re remembered fondly for all the right reasons.

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Ignoring the seating arrangement

One of the most frequent blunders guests make is ignoring the seating arrangement.

"Switching seats or sitting somewhere other than where you’re assigned might seem harmless, but it can disrupt the careful planning that the bride and groom have spent weeks, if not months, working on," Angela said.

“Seating arrangements are often crafted with thought, considering relationships and group dynamics. By ignoring them, you risk upsetting the balance the couple has tried to create. It's a simple but meaningful way to show respect for their efforts.”

Posting on social media without the couple’s permission

These days, it’s tempting to share every moment on social media, but when it comes to weddings, discretion is key.

"A wedding is deeply personal, and many couples want to control what is shared and when,” Angela explains.

"Wait until the couple has posted their pictures first before you share anything," she adds.

“For ceremonies with a phone ban, respect it. There’s nothing tackier than being the guest caught sneaking photos when asked not to.”

Not saying goodbye

As the festivities wind down, it’s important to show gratitude before you leave.

"If possible, thank the bride and groom in person for the invitation, as it’s a small gesture that goes a long way," Angela suggests.

“If you must slip out early, use discretion and ensure you’ve expressed your appreciation earlier in the day. A hasty exit without acknowledgement can come across as dismissive, even if it wasn’t your intention,” says the expert.

Not being mindful of the photographer

Wedding photographers are hired to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments, but overly eager guests can sometimes get in the way.

"Avoid stepping into the aisle during the ceremony or blocking key moments like the first dance," Angela advises.

If you want your own snaps, wait until the photographer has finished their work, and never post your shots before the couple has shared theirs. "It’s their day, and their story to tell first," she adds.

Overindulging at the open bar

While an open bar is often one of the highlights of a wedding reception, it’s important to drink responsibly.

"Nobody wants to be remembered as the guest who had one too many and caused a scene," Angela warns.

"Moderation is key. Weddings are joyous occasions, but they’re not the time for drunken antics or behaviour that distracts from the couple’s special day."

Pace yourself with water in between drinks, and always stay respectful to other guests and the staff.