Gents, do you have an invitation to a pending wedding and have questions about what to wear, gifts, and general wedding etiquette for men? We have put together a few top tips for men attending a wedding to make sure that everything goes smoothly for you (and everyone else) on the day.
Don’t be late
If you are the kind of guy that likes to operate on your own time and has a tendency to be late, this is not the day to do it. On this particular day, it is the bride’s prerogative to be late. Arrive 30 minutes before the ceremony is due to start whether you are the groom or some distant relative/friend (especially if you are the groom).
This goes for all guests – arrive 30 minutes before the time printed on your invitation. It is poor form to be late.
Don’t bring a plus one unless it states on your invite
Don’t be tempted to bring your new girlfriend, or worry about finding a date for the wedding unless the invite specifically says plus one. If it only has your name on it, assume that the invitation is for you only. This applies even if you are married or in a long term relationship. If you are unsure, just check. If you do have a plus one, don’t rush round in a desperate attempt to find anyone. Bring an appropriate guest that will fit in and enjoy the day.
Don’t be that drunk guest
There is usually one at a wedding but it doesn’t need to be you. If you are a member of the wedding party ie – groom, best man, groomsman, father of the bride etc then double your efforts to ensure that you are not the one that everyone remembers being the really drunk guy at the wedding.
Don’t rock up with a gift
You may have had to re-read that thinking it said don’t rock up without a gift however, you should actually refrain from taking a gift to a wedding. Wedding gifts these days are usually done online, often through a wedding registry.
The couple put together a list of what they want and then guests can go and choose what they want. It’s unusual to turn up with a physical gift to a wedding. It just means that someone hast to keep track of it and carry it away from the venue.
Check the dress code
Imagine rocking up to a wedding a tux when it’s not that formal event or turning up underdressed to an extremely formal occasion. It’s easily done. Be sure to check the dress code and whether it states black tie, evening wear etc. Beach weddings and summer outdoor events tend to be less formal. If in doubt double check with the bride or groom. Check well in advance though – don’t leave it to the last minute to ask – you are far less likely to find something if you are rushing around the day before. If you need a good suit, find a professional suit hire company where you can either hire or purchase a good quality suit for the occasion.
If you say you’re attending then attend
Don’t be a DNS – Did not show! It is expensive to cater for a wedding and the bride and groom will have paid a lot of money for each guest to be there. Your place could have been given to someone else, or they could have reduced the number of guests and saved money. If you say you are going to be there then make sure you are.
And a few more wedding etiquette for men tips
These are just our top wedding etiquette for men tips for male guests attending a wedding there are plenty more including:
- Save the embarrassing stories about the bride or groom for a different time
- Be organised and make sure you plan ahead for travel etc and that you know where you are going
- Don‘t complain if you end up sat somewhere you would rather not – it is agonising sometimes to arrange a seating plan that suits everyone
Weddings are a happy occasion to be enjoyed. Have fun and remember to smile for the photos.
