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1. Show up on time.
Yes, yes, custom dictates that it’s permissible for a bride to be late to her own wedding, but there’s a huge difference being delayed for half an hour and being three hours late.
Disasters and unexpected setbacks are excusable (in which case you should make sure to get a message to someone who can then inform the guests about the delay), but if you have no valid reason to be late, you may find yourself on the receiving end of hostile glances.
2. Feed your vendors
Believe it or not, I’ve actually been to weddings where the photographers, videographers and caterers were expected to work without a break and without food.
If you think that people don’t notice how you treat the people whose services you paid for (and yes, that includes feeding them), then you’re in for a rude awakening.
The people that you’ve hired do require sustenance in order to continue working their magic, and neglecting to extend one of the most basic forms of hospitality to them on your big day, makes you look so very bad.
3. If at all possible, and if within your budget, provide snacks during those in-between moments when your guests are waiting.
This would especially be welcome for when you and the bridal party need to head on off for your photo shoot.
Finger snacks and cocktail foods, along with some refreshing beverages will keep your guests occupied and take the edge of gnawing hunger while they’re waiting for the reception banquet to begin! It will also line their stomachs so that they don’t act like these drunk guests.
4. Arrange the seating in a way that leaves no room for awkwardness (or all-out brawls)
You know your family and you know your friends. Which means it would make sense for you to arrange it in a manner where people who know one another are grouped together.
No one wants to spend half of the day’s celebrations in the company of people who leave you feeling awkward, so while you have the authority over seating arrangements, consider the feelings of your family members and friends.
5. Unexpected setback in schedule? Let your guests know immediately.
Because and let’s face it, there’s always one thing that is bound to go wrong. Maybe the DJ was allergic to bees and had to go to the ER, or the wedding officiator was in an accident - either way, it will be best to inform your guests as soon as humanly possible.
That way they will be a lot more understanding and far less likely to complain about having to endure any form of discomfiture because of circumstances out of your control.
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