How to be a Fabulous Wedding Guest

I love a wedding. From the fabulous food to the exquisite details, there are few better celebrations than watching two friends tie the knot! It's an honor to be included on the guest list so I always want to mind my Ps and Qs while enjoying the fun. Unfortunately, not everyone is on their best behaviors as wedding guests. Whether intentional or not, it's just unacceptable! 

So, here are a five pointers on being a fabulous wedding guest.

1. Pay attention to how your invitation is addressed. If there isn't an "and guest" after your name, then leave your special friend at home. Same goes for "and family". Take advantage of the opportunity to grab a babysitter and have a fun date night! Don't take it personally, the couple has to make serious decisions when creating their guest list. The venue might not be appropriate for children or they might be really restricted on a guest count so random dates can't be included. Again, don't take it personally but celebrate the fact that YOU were included to witness their special day!

2. Ladies...seriously...don't wear white. I'm going to take it a step further and tell you to stay away from ivory as well. Only one girl needs to be wearing shades of white on a wedding day, and that is the bride. My grandmother would beat me silly if I broke this rule, but I see it at every wedding. Even if you look fabulous in that white lace sundress, look fabulous somewhere else. Sorry to be harsh, but if you wear white to a Truly Haute wedding, I'm judging you....hard.

3. Let the photographer/videographer do their job. They are passionate about capturing the special moments of the day (not to mentioned paid to do so!)...but they can't adequately do their job if you are incessantly jumping in front of them to take photos with your phone. I love social media as much as anyone, but snap your pics on the side...not directly in the line of the professionals.

4. Leave the decor alone! Oh my word, stop pulling flowers out of centerpieces. If you had any idea how much thought and effort (again, not to mention cash!) went into selecting those exact arrangements, you would leave them be! On the same note, leave candles where you found them and don't blow them out...come on!

5.  Act right. You were probably raised right, so act like it! This includes, but is not limited to, drinking responsibly, toasting appropriately, dancing only fabulously, and not eating like a toddler. Also, when the party is over...leave. Don't hang around until the lights are on and the vendors are cleaning up...move the party elsewhere!

And, one to grow on....a personal pet peeve...keep your shoes on! If you think you will literally dance until your feet hurt, slip some flats into your purse. I'm just not interested in seeing your bare feet...especially dancing in puddles of spilled signature cocktails all over the dance floor. Gross.

Remember, a wedding is a celebration of your friends' love, relationship and commitment. Respect their decisions and just enjoy the day!

-Rachel