Etiquette expert reveals the ultimate list of wedding guest do’s and don’ts

Weddings are a tricky business, particularly when it comes to being a guest.

Even though your responsibilities are nothing compared to that of the soon-to-be newlyweds, there are still some rules that one should avoid breaking.

For example, earlier this week, Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley caused a social media storm when she appeared to wear white to her daughter’s wedding.

But the former US ambassador to the UN, 51, hit back at critics, saying her dress was actually gold.

Nikki Haley, 51, took to social media to share a snapshot of the big day as she stood alongside husband Michael, son Nalin, daughter Rena, and Rena’s new husband Josh

But the former US ambassador to the UN, 51, hit back at critics, saying her dress was actually gold

But the former US ambassador to the UN, 51, hit back at critics, saying her dress was actually gold

It sparked a fierce debate about wedding etiquette, and left people wondering what the dos and don’ts are for a wedding guest.

To help you out, FEMAIL has enlisted the help of New York-based etiquette expert Myka Meier to make sure you don’t commit any faux pas – from appropriate attire to how much you should be spending on wedding gifts.

It’s all about the happy couple: Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing anything too bold

Myka, who founded Beaumont Etiquette, advises attendees they should stay away from any outfit that will draw the focus away from the people getting married.

‘The general rule of thumb for wedding guests is to avoid any attire that can take away from attention on the couple,’ she told DailyMail.com.

‘The color white is typically reserved for the couple getting married.’

Wedding dress designer Madeline Gardner also told The Knot people should also rethink outfits that were cream or ivory, not just white.

‘When you’re a guest at a wedding, the most important thing to keep in mind is not to upstage or upset the bride,’ she said.

‘It’s safe to stay away from any outfits that are predominantly white, cream or ivory.’

Myka advises attendees they should stay away from any outfit that will draw the focus away from the people getting married (stock image)

Myka advises attendees they should stay away from any outfit that will draw the focus away from the people getting married (stock image)

What’s the right amount to spend on a wedding gift? You should be forking out between $50 to $100

It’s a topic that’s hotly debated, but Myka has finally settled this argument once and for all.

‘In terms of an appropriate gift amount, it depends on your relationship with the couple,’ she explained.

‘The average gift amount spend is $50 to $100, however if it is a wedding of a close friend or family member, it can be $150 or more.

‘You may want to spend more if it’s a couple attending versus one person attending as well.’

Think before you post! Always get the OK from the happy couple before sharing wedding photos on social media

Myka recommends people to refrain from posting photos or video on social media unless you know the couple will be okay with it or have granted permission for you to do so.

Posting a photo of the bride before she does may spoil her big reveal or they may just want to keep their day private,’ the etiquette expert said.

‘I recommend not posting photos until you are given the go ahead. Look for cues on the wedding website or at the event itself – if there is a wedding hashtag being promoted, it’s likely you are fine to post away unless told otherwise. 

Myka recommends people to refrain from posting photos or video on social media unless you know the couple will be okay with it (stock image)

Myka recommends people to refrain from posting photos or video on social media unless you know the couple will be okay with it (stock image)

‘Some couples or their wedding planners will make an announcement or have signs announcing it’s an “unplugged wedding” which means no cameras, videos or social media posting. Always be respectful of the privacy and wishes of the couple.’

Another factor people should think about is asking if it’s okay for you to post or take photos of other guests before uploading, Myka said.

‘Don’t post pictures that may be embarrassing to others such as someone dancing without them knowing you captured the footage. Also people may not want to be shown drinking in photos,’ she explained.

And don’t get in the way of the couple’s wedding videographer or photographer when you’re trying to get your own snaps.

Myka added: ‘Lastly, no live streaming of the wedding, you never know what will happen or who will see it, and chances are not everyone attending will want to be on your social media channels.’



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Read more at DailyMail.co.uk