Summer days are ahead, meaning we are smack dab in the middle of wedding season here at the Amazing Graze Barn.
If you have been invited to a Summer wedding, you will want to ensure you are prepared for the occasion. Here are our tips for being the very best possible Summer Wedding Guest. These tips are not only useful for you but also helpful and considerate of the bride and groom.
RSVP on Time
Please, please, please RSVP by the requested date on the invitation, even sooner than that is better! This helps the couple finalize their guest list, make seating arrangements, plan food and drink, and even order favors in a timely manner. We beg you not to have the make the bride or groom reach out to you individually for your RSVP.
Dress Appropriately
Check the invitation or other wedding resources given by the bride and groom for any attire asks. If there are no details specified, here in NC typically a light and breezy attire like floral dresses, linen suits, or pastel colors are the way to go.
When choosing accessories, we recommend opting for minimal and elegant accessories that complement or complete your outfit. You can get creative with a stylish hat or even sunglasses if you know that the ceremony and/or reception will be outside.
Planning your shoes is crucial. Remember that the ceremony and/or reception could possibly be in the grass. Women may want to avoid large heels that easily sink into the ground.
Gift Giving
When choosing a gift, we recommend referring to the couple’s registry or giving them cash or a gift card first. Additional gifts are always nice, but the couple created the registry based on what they need and want, so it’s best to start there. Either bring your gift to the wedding, or have it sent directly to the couple ahead of time.
Do Your Homework
If you have questions about the wedding, first be sure to thoroughly check all the resources the couple provided - the Save the Date, the Invitation, the Wedding Website, etc. Trust us, the couple wants to give you as much information as possible, so it’s likely that they have already answered your question somewhere!
If your question is still not answered, consider first reaching out to someone in the bridal party or a distant relative of the bride or groom. It’s most helpful to the couple when you do your homework way in advance and without contacting them for details.
We also suggest that wedding guests visit our website and follow us on social media in advance. We have an entire page on our site dedicated just to our couple’s guests, and our social media will give you a glimpse into our space, helping you get your bearings before you even arrive. Follow us - Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest.
It’s also wise to plan for the weather on your own. Check the weather ahead of time to help make a few of your decisions, and come prepared.
Arrive on Time
Plan out your journey to our venue and plan to arrive within the time requested by the bride and groom. Please be respectful of the ceremony start time. If the couple does not specify an arrival time, we recommend arriving at least 15-30 minutes early.
Be Mindful of Photography/Videography
You have been invited to the wedding to witness this special event, but kindly remember that the couple has not hired you to capture it. Please be mindful of the photographer(s) and videographer(s) at the wedding. They are being compensated to grab every detail. Avoid obstructing their view or becoming annoyed if they step in front of you for a few seconds to get the best shot. The couple will be grateful to you later when they receive flawless photos back a few weeks later!
Enjoy Yourself
It’s a celebration, after all! Relax, enjoy the food/drink, participate in any activities you’re invited to, and soak up the day the bride and groom have been planning for. Trust us, while they have been preparing for this day, you and your experience at your wedding have been at the forefront of their minds.
