All guests should feel welcome at your wedding, and thoughtful wedding guest etiquette helps to achieve just that. But catering to every individual wedding guest’s needs and desires can be tricky, not to mention time consuming. While some needs—like dietary restrictions or religious practices—must be accommodated, it all comes down to the planning. From a range of beverages to guest etiquette, here are some suggestions for happy attendees.
Wedding Guest Etiquette: Making Everyone Feel Comfortable
A Varied Menu with Dietary Options
From croquembouche to rustic Italian soups, the food at your wedding can tell a story. But what about exploring the cultural and medical side of your wedding menu? Any reliable catering service will be all too happy to oblige whatever needs your big day has, and can certainly offer many wonderful suggestions. No matter the dietary needs of your guests, the caterers will offer tasty options for guests of all specific needs and backgrounds. Be sure to discuss any dietary or cultural restrictions with your caterer early on so they can accommodate them seamlessly.
A Mix of Soft and Alcoholic Drinks
Just like the food, drinks are an important consideration. While many guests enjoy a tipple at a wedding, not everyone drinks alcohol. Some avoid it for religious reasons, others simply don’t like it, some may be recovering alcoholics, and of course, underage guests can’t partake. Offering a variety of beverages ensures that everyone has something to enjoy while keeping the festive mood going. And don’t forget plenty of fresh bottled water to keep guests refreshed!
Cater to Every Wedding Guest with Accessibility
A survey by DisabilitySport found that 80% of people over 85 in the UK are disabled. (In the USA, according to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 37% of adults live with some form of disability.) However, less than 8% of disabilities require a wheelchair. Despite this, accessibility should always factor into choosing both an indoor and outdoor wedding venue for your big day. Ramps and handrails are a great start for anyone with mobility issues. You should also consider seating arrangements for guests who need extra space and ensure access to restrooms is easy.
Express Preferred Wedding Etiquette
For the most part, people will go out of their way to look great at a wedding. It’s a perfect occasion for dressing up and presenting yourself as best as possible. So, it helps to clarify the level of formality by specifying a dress code, reassuring guests of what to expect. Remember, this is not about telling your guests what to wear, but rather giving them guidance on what is appropriate.
Of course, cultural and religious traditions may also be a factor to consider, helping certain guests feel welcomed and respected.
What About the Children?
Weddings can be fun occasions for all family members, regardless of age. That said, they are primarily adult affairs, and can sometimes be less exciting for children. If you want to invite children to your wedding, be sure to communicate this in advance, ideally on the wedding invitation. When inviting children, also include their names on the inner envelope of your invitation. If you aren’t inviting the young ones, simply put the adults’ names only.
To keep them entertained, consider having child-friendly activities, such as a designated play area or crafts station. If you’re offering childcare or other special activities, it’s thoughtful to include that information as well.
Summary
Ensuring all your guests feel welcome and comfortable on your wedding day comes down to thoughtful planning and following good wedding guest etiquette. From an inclusive menu to accessible venues and clear communication about children, small details can make a big difference in their experience. By considering your guests’ needs in advance, you’ll create a celebration that everyone can enjoy.
Following good wedding guest etiquette ensures that everyone feels comfortable, included, and ready to celebrate your special day.
* This is a contributed post
I hope you found this information useful! Need more tips to make your wedding stress-free? Check out more on the blog for expert advice!
Photo Credit: Kayla Renee via Pexels CC0 Licensed
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Author of “Wedding Invitations, RSVPs, and More! Oh My!” and “From ‘I Will’ to ‘I Do’”
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