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Guests and etiquette · Wedding guest etiquette

What are five bad manners?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12 · For guests

Short answer

Five bad manners are arriving late, ignoring the dress code, bringing an uninvited guest, using your phone during the ceremony, and making a scene at the table.

Good manners at a wedding centre on consideration for the couple and the other guests. The five most common lapses are all about ignoring the agreed plan.

First, arriving late to the ceremony or the reception. Weddings run to a tight schedule, and late arrivals can delay speeches, meals and dancing. If you know you will be late, let someone know straight away.

Second, ignoring the dress code. This is not just about looking the part. It shows you did not read the invitation or did not care enough to follow it. Dress appropriately for the venue and the stated theme.

Third, bringing an uninvited guest or child. Unless the couple has said otherwise, the guest list is final. Extra people affect seating, food, drinks and the overall atmosphere.

Fourth, using your phone during the ceremony or key moments. Keep it silent and out of sight. Take photos only if the couple has said this is welcome.

Fifth, making a scene at the table. Keep your volume down, do not argue, and avoid embarrassing the couple or other guests with loud behaviour.

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