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8 Annoying Things That Wedding Guests Do

8 Annoying Things That Wedding Guests Do


Alison Hargreaves Guides for Brides Bio
Alison Hargreaves Updated:
8th of March 2023

While your wedding guests should consist of your nearest and dearest, it's often those closest to you who can annoy you the most. After planning the perfect day, you don't want your guests to ruin it. Here's 8 annoying things that guests do - and how to deal with them...

1. Forgetting to RSVP 

You've sent out invites and you're anxiously awaiting replies. Some people are disorganised and may need a reminder to send that vital RSVP. Putting an encourage post on Facebook is always a good bet, but you may have to call or text directly to chase. 

2. Ask to bring a plus one 

Cheeky guests may try to extend their invitation. You feel rude saying no, but your friend's new boyfriend is not really at the top of your guest list. Simply say, 'We would have loved to extend the invitation to plus ones, but due to budget/venue restrictions we've had to keep the guest list smaller.' 

3. Wearing white

When your guest rocks up in a white dress, you may question why she's trying to steal your thunder, and also why her invitation didn't "get lost" in the post. Just take a breath and remember that it's impossible to truly upstage the bride!

4.  Sniffling throughout the ceremony 

It's the most important day of your life, and you're at the altar making those all-important vows. Before you know it, the emotional moment is ruined by the sniffling guest at the back.  Note to guests - pack tissues. If you're feeling super organised, you could even provide tissues with a 'For happy tears' sticker. 

5. Changing your seat 

You've spent hours deliberating on your seating plan only for guests to shuffle around.  The truth is, it's unlikely that everyone will be happy with their seat, but you can only do your best (and let your caterers know so that people aren't served the wrong choices!). 

6.  Complaining about the food 

The food may not be to everyone's taste, but that 3 course dinner is costing you a small fortune - so they could at least pretend to like it! Our advice is to simply choose food that you and your fiance will love on the big day, so that the two most important people in the room are happy at the end of the day. 

7. Being boring 

You look around your reception and you see certain guests who have decided not to mingle, talk or dance.  Unfortunately there's no easy fix for this, but ensuring that your playlist appeals to a range of ages and tastes, as well as including fun entertainment (magician anyone?) is a sure way to keep the day fun and relaxed. 

8. Talking during speeches

You're trying to listen to your Dad's proud speech, but you're distracted by the whispering in the background. Guests are sure to get restless after long speeches, so make sure that the involved parties stick to a time limit. Your wedding videographer should be recording the speeches, so you can always listen back after the big day.  

Alison Hargreaves Guides for Brides Bio

About the author


Alison Hargreaves

Alison has been advising brides, grooms and bridesmaids for more than 25 years. She has an unrivalled knowledge of the British wedding industry and frequently appears on podcasts and expert panels. She regularly attends international wedding conferences to keep the UK at the forefront of wedding planning trends.

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