We are now in the season of weddings' and graduation parties. I know we all get excited about getting an official invite to someone's big day, but sometimes we forget that it isn't about us. There are a few rules that we must not forget to remember to follow when we attend these upcoming event's.
If someone tells you to RSVP: More than likely they have a head count and have to pay for the number of people that they invited to their special day. So sending your invite back in a timely fashion is greatly appreciated and helps the host keep a number count.
Plus One Means Only One: Unless there are other instructions given. Sometimes, we may want to share the moment with people who may not be able to experience things of this stature. It is very disrespectful to add more than allowed and causes a scene. Trust me this recently happened at an event I just attended and was very taken back at how some people act and make scenes for no reason.
Bring a gift: You don't want anyone to show up to your party with no gift or charitable donation that wouldn't cover the amount of gas to get where you are going. I know we all love the finer things in life, but if you can't afford to give a decent gift then just don't go. Depending on the occasion giving cash, cashier checks, money order, or gift are suitable gestures.
Be on time: Usually most events start between 10-15 minutes late. It is very distracting if someone is giving a speech, even though you may come in quietly, not to be on time in your seat. If you're more than 30 minutes late, don't bother showing up.
Dress Code: Dress accordingly. If the invite states (after 5 attire, formal, black time, etc.) This means dress up Sunday attire or simply suit and tie. If the invite states (dress down, casual, etc.) This means that you can wear a nice pair of loafers or sundress with sandals. I recently attended an event where someone was at an after 5 attire event in shorts and a polo shirt, you never want to stand out like a sore thumb.
Keep it Simple: Usually the guest of honor walks around and greets each guest, if there are over 100 guest keep the conversation to under seven minutes. In this time all pictures, conversation, and thanks should be exchanged between each party. Never make the host feel that they need to be by you because, again, you don't want to be that person who is in all the pictures who looks a mess. Do you?
