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Your essential wedding survival guide
Does the prospect of receiving a gilt-edged wedding invite in the post cause you to break out in a cold sweat? Do you turn and run at the first sight of a long white dress? If you’d rather spend a day in a darkened room then go to a wedding then you’re certainly not alone – but the good news is that there are ways to get through the big day without acquiring any mental scars. You might even find that you actually end up rather enjoying yourself.
Dress to impress: The etiquette of wedding dressing can be enough to put anybody out of their stride. Avoid embarrassing moments by enquiring discretely about the dress code in advance and preparing accordingly. As a general rule, stick to demure rather than sexy, avoid overly casually or overly formal attire – and whatever you do, don’t upstage the bride.
Have a glass…but not too many: There’s usually a generous supply of champagne available at any wedding reception. A glass or two can make it easier to talk to other guests and even to get onto the dance floor, but don’t go overboard. There’s nothing worse than a drunken wedding guest detracting from the celebrations.
Get out there and network: Think positive. The great thing about weddings is that they allow you to legitimately introduce yourself to people that you would otherwise never meet. As a result, attending a reception is a great opportunity to meet work contacts, friends, or even a new love interest. On the other hand, if you insist on staying at your table looking miserable then the only things you’ll get are sour grapes.
Give a gift: To buy or not to buy? It’s a question that many wedding guests ask themselves; and the question is that it’s polite to get the couple a gift, even if it’s just a small one. Check out the registry, or choose something thoughtfully and unanimously acceptable such as flowers or a gift hamper. As well as flowers, Interflora offer hampers on their website, all with next day delivery so you won’t have to drag your present along to the reception.
Shift your focus: Finally, remember that this wedding isn’t about you. Try to see it as what it is - a major milestone in the life of the happy couple and one which should be celebrated. It doesn’t really matter if you don’t feel comfortable in formal attire, what matters is that they have a great time. So, if you really can’t get over your wedding phobia then at least try to keep it to yourself.
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