Your wedding party, guests, and workers – all are able to upset your big day with a wrong move or inappropriate behavior. Being clear about the wedding etiquette you want your guests to display comes first from how you approach the day, from beginning to end.

BEFORE THE WEDDING
Ask for an RSVP. Not only is it polite on the guests part, but also you will be able to get an early head count.

AT THE START OF THE WEDDING Have a greeter. Pick a friend or family member who speaks politely and will be welcoming to your guests. They will be the first person your guests will talk to, so they will set the tone for everybody. Also, do not be afraid to have them ask guests to turn off their cell phones. Asking guests at the start of the wedding will prevent disruption later.

DURING THE WEDDING Have someone (not you) keep watch. Your wedding planner or a trusted friend is perfect for this task. What does “keep watch” mean? If there is an upset baby, snoring uncle, or any other guest that may cause a scene during the ceremony, your “watcher” will be able to speak with them discretely and promptly.

AFTER THE WEDDING Shake hands with or hug your guests to make every guest feel wanted at your special day.

AT THE RECEPTION Make friends with the bartender. Drunken behavior is the utmost cause for embarrassing moments. Ask your bartender to keep a very careful watch on how intoxicated guests become. Have a heavy drinking family? Ask your bartender to water down drinks from the start. Also, make sure you have your wedding planner or a modest friend get a sneak peak at the toasts so that there aren’t any (horrible) surprises.

AFTER THE HONEYMOON
Send thank you cards. When everything goes smoothly, you want to be able to thank guests for coming and for their gifts. Your good etiquette will translate well to other events (particularly at your future celebrations or when you are attending other weddings).

These tips ensure an effortless way to achieve proper wedding etiquette from everybody. However, there are still variations. Want to tell dirty jokes or swear a little? Make sure you ask guests to leave children at home when asking for an RSVP. Want a Cinderella fairytale (aka a super fancy wedding)? Then send guests a guidebook on dinner etiquette and add, “black tie only” to your invitations. The entire day (and how people behave) can be your vision from start to end.

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