Do’s and don’t’s from weddings you have attended

In my circle, I've seen the bouquet/garter tosses flounder in 3 out of 4 weddings that had them. Like, it's announced and all the single guests scatter. Those that did end up on dance floor quickly gauged who seemed the most into it and let that person catch the bouquet/garter. In one of those weddings all the women just kinda watched the bouquet land on the floor and the closest one picked it up.


I think single people don't really like being called out at weddings much anymore. We skipped the bouquet and garter tosses for that reason

It’s tough because the wedding is of course centered around the couple and their tastes, but the last two weddings I’ve been to, the couple had very obscure music tastes. One had a live band that I actually really enjoyed listening to, but it didn’t inspire me to get out on the dance floor. At both of them I ended up a little bored at the reception, and I think a large part of that was not recognizing ANY of the music. It might be “basic,” but I think at least having some well known songs that most of the guests can jam out to on the playlist makes it more enjoyable for guests. Even if something I don’t usually like comes on, as a guest I find it so much more enjoyable when it’s stuff I already know. We’re starting to work on our song list now, and we’re trying to hit a few major hits from the decades our guests grew up in so they hopefully all have at least a few songs they’ll recognize.

Don’t do a garter toss! Don’t make your bridesmaids wear min. 6 in heels for a wedding on a golf course (we are no longer friends as the bride was unrealistic). Don’t register for baby items if you haven’t announced you’re pregnant. Yes it has happened. Don’t use 2 tables for the reception for a barn wedding and just use a bunch of chairs. Also don’t not feed the guests a meal and not mention it on the invite and website.

Definitely consider a first look and getting pictures before the ceremony with bridesmaids, groomsmen, some immediate family if possible - I've seen many couples and even bridesmaids and groomsmen miss most (if not all) of the cocktail hour because they were out taking pictures while guests mingled, drank, and munched.

Skipping bouquet and garter toss - there is no pressure to do those things. Many weddings I've been to in the last year have not incorporated.

Pick music you enjoy but that others can also dance to - a balance is always nice so everyone can be inspired to dance.

Don't feel obligated to invite anyone and everyone, especially distant family, parents friends etc. - it's your day and you should be surrounded by people and friends YOU want there and to make memories with, the aunt, uncle, cousins, and your parents friends that you haven't seen in 2+ years don't have to be included if you want to keep to closer relatives and friends. I've seen too many couples stress about seating charts and awkward feelings surrounding people they felt obligated to include in their special day.