Dear Wedding Guests,

Thank you for coming to a momentous event in your family member's life. Thank you for taking the time from your busy schedule, spending the money to make sure you can stay in the area, all just to be there to watch and support as two families become one.

But listen up. That does not entitle you to complain.

Sure, you made an effort to be at a new place just to watch two people say, "I do." Then you joined them for the reception where there's free food and most likely free liquor too. However, it's a chilly day and the reception venue is outside. That's unfortunate, but so is complaining.

What I'm getting at, dear wedding guests, is your entitlement to absolute comfort at someone else's wedding. What I'm talking about is being too cold, being too hot, not liking the food selection, thinking that the DJ or band is awful, or that the bar doesn't have a wide variety . . . . Before I continue, please stop and just think: 1) You are getting free food and alcohol and 2) It is NOT your day.

Stop complaining.

If the venue is outside, and it is supposed to be a chilly day -- bring a jacket or a thicker sweater. Who cares if it does not match your outfit? At least you are warm. That way, when the bride wants the tent's curtains open during dinner, you are comfortable and she can enjoy the scenic view on her wedding day. If you did not come prepared, well that is your fault. The wedding is not supposed to suit your every need because it is not your day.

It doesn't matter if the band or DJ plays your favorite songs or not, the band is supposed to play the music that the bride and groom want to hear, not you. Why? It is not your day.

You look over and see that your ex is a table away. Do not start a commotion, just deal with it. It is not the bride and groom's fault you got a divorce, they are trying to include everyone in their celebration as they have a right too. So tolerate being near your ex for a few hours. Why? You can probably guess, it is not your day.

What I am trying to say is: put away your needs and concerns for one night. Don't threaten to leave because you are not comfortable. Put on a nice smile for awhile because it is someone else's day to celebrate a new adventure in their lives. Keep in mind that the most important aspect is that the bride and groom are happy and enjoying themselves. It is their day to make memories forever. And it needs to be perfect for them.

So for one night, put your needs aside. Help make the day perfect for the bride and groom.