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.