Weddings are a big deal for the couple getting married, but sadly, some guests seem to forget that.
Whether it’s showing up late, drinking a little too much, or turning someone else’s big day into their own personal drama, there are plenty of ways to unintentionally (or very intentionally) be the worst guest in the room. If you want to keep things classy and avoid being that person, here are some things you should never do on someone else’s big day.
1. Show up late like it’s no big deal
Nothing ruins a heartfelt wedding ceremony like the sound of a door creaking open and someone awkwardly shuffling in halfway through the vows. Arriving late to a wedding is not only disruptive, it’s also just plain rude. The couple has likely spent months planning every detail, including the timing. If you roll in late, not only do you risk becoming an unintentional centre of attention, but you also look like you couldn’t be bothered to respect their special moment. Plan ahead, arrive early, and save yourself the embarrassment.
2. Wear white (or anything close to it)
It should go without saying, but some people still seem to think a white or cream-coloured outfit is acceptable wedding attire when they’re not the bride. Unless the couple specifically requests that everyone wear white, it’s just a no. If you’re worried your outfit is “close enough” to look like a wedding dress, that’s your sign to pick something else. There are thousands of other colours to choose from — don’t make the day about you by causing a fashion controversy.
3. Complain about the food
Maybe the chicken is a bit dry. Maybe you’re not a fan of the vegetarian option. Maybe you were hoping for a buffet instead of a plated meal. None of that matters because you’re not at a restaurant—you’re at someone’s wedding. The couple likely spent a fortune on catering, and they’re not going to be thrilled if they hear guests moaning about the menu. Even if the food isn’t to your taste, just eat what you can, smile, and remember, you’re there for the celebration, not a Michelin-starred dining experience.
4. Bring an uninvited plus-one
If your invitation doesn’t say “plus-one,” then guess what? You don’t have a plus-one. Weddings are expensive, and guest lists are carefully planned. Showing up with an uninvited date, friend, or child is one of the quickest ways to cause unnecessary stress. If you really don’t want to go alone, ask the couple in advance, rather than assuming they’ll be fine with it. Otherwise, just embrace the solo experience — chances are, you won’t be the only one there without a date.
5. Get too drunk too early
Weddings are a great time to let loose, but there’s a big difference between enjoying yourself and being the guest who gets sloppy before the first dance. Nobody wants to be remembered as the person who tripped over the cake table or started slurring through speeches. Pace yourself, drink water between rounds, and remember that just because the bar is open doesn’t mean you need to sample everything it has to offer. The couple didn’t spend all that money on decorations and flowers just for you to be a drunken spectacle in the background of their wedding photos.
6. Give an unapproved speech
Unless you’ve been specifically asked to give a toast, don’t suddenly decide to grab the mic and share your thoughts. It doesn’t matter how well you know the couple — impromptu speeches rarely go well, especially after a few drinks. If you feel the urge to say something meaningful, keep it private. Write a heartfelt note or save your words for a one-on-one moment. The reception isn’t open mic night, and the last thing anyone wants is a speech that drags on awkwardly.
7. Make the whole day about yourself
Believe it or not, someone else’s wedding is not the time to announce your own engagement, pregnancy, or major life event. It’s also not the time to start drama, demand special attention, or act like you’re the main character. The couple spent months (maybe even years) planning this day. If you show up and shift the focus onto yourself, it just makes you look inconsiderate. You’ll have plenty of time for your own celebrations — let them have theirs.
8. Post photos before the couple does
Everyone loves a good wedding photo, but posting snaps of the bride before she’s had a chance to do her own big reveal? That’s a major faux pas. If you’re unsure whether you can share photos, wait until the couple posts first. Many couples have specific rules about social media at their wedding, and the last thing they want is for blurry, unflattering pictures to be all over the internet before they even see their professional shots.
9. Criticise the wedding choices
Not a fan of the colour scheme? Think the music choices are a bit off? Wishing the ceremony was shorter? Keep those thoughts to yourself. A wedding is deeply personal, and every detail has likely been chosen for a reason. Even if things aren’t your taste, that doesn’t mean they’re wrong. Your job as a guest is to show up, be happy for the couple, and enjoy the experience, not to judge every decision like you’re on a reality show.
10. Ignore the dress code
If the invite says black tie, don’t show up in jeans. If it’s a beach wedding, don’t rock up in stilettos. The couple has put effort into creating a specific vibe, and dressing appropriately is a sign of respect. Even if you’re not a fan of formal wear, following the dress code is part of being a good guest. Plus, you don’t want to be the one person sticking out in all the wedding photos.
11. Hog the couple’s time
The newlyweds will probably be trying to talk to dozens (if not hundreds) of people throughout the day. Don’t be the guest who traps them in a 20-minute conversation about your own life. Say your congratulations, have a quick chat, and let them move on. They’ll appreciate the gesture, and you won’t be keeping them from enjoying their own wedding day.
12. Be a nightmare on the dancefloor
A wedding reception is the perfect place to let loose, but there’s a fine line between having fun and being an absolute menace. Flailing into people, dramatically taking over the dancefloor, or forcing unwilling guests into a dance-off is never a good look. It’s great to bring energy to the party, but if your dance moves are causing chaos, maybe take a step back. You want to be remembered for your fun spirit, not for accidentally knocking over a bridesmaid.
13. Leave before the key moments
If you can’t stay for the whole event, that’s fine, but ghosting before the cake-cutting, first dance, or speeches can come across as rude, especially if you’re close to the couple. Weddings take a lot of planning, and certain moments are important. If you absolutely must leave early, do it discreetly and make sure to say goodbye to the couple first.
