5 Surefire Ways to Ruin a Wedding & Break All Wedding Etiquette

Wedding days are significant events that celebrate the love and union of two people. Whether you're part of the wedding party or just a guest,... Read More

Looking down a long wedding table with decorations

Wedding days are significant events that celebrate the love and union of two people. Whether you’re part of the wedding party or just a guest, it’s essential to remember that the couple wants to enjoy their special day without any problems. 

But there are times when guests’ actions and words can ruin the ceremony, devastating everyone’s experience. This post will discuss five surefire ways to ruin a wedding.

5 WAYS TO RUIN A WEDDING

1. Constantly be on your phone (even as a guest) 

We’re in the digital age, and getting engrossed in our phones and social media is easy. However, phones and social media should be the least of your worries when attending a wedding. 

Not only is it disrespectful to the couple and other guests to consistently be on your phone, but you’ll also miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the ceremony and the reception. Instead, turn off your phone or put it on silent, then focus on being present and engaged in the wedding ceremony.

2. Request awkward songs for the DJ to play 

Music sets the mood for any event, and weddings are no exception. Nonetheless, if you have any requests, ensure they’re not inappropriate, vulgar, or awkward. 

You don’t want to make others uncomfortable or ruin the couple’s moment. If you’re unsure of what songs to request, opt for classics that everyone can sing and dance along with.

3. Give a tacky toast

Wedding toasts are an essential part of the reception, and while injecting humor is good, keep it classy and appropriate. Avoid too inside jokes that only a few people understand or tell stories that might embarrass the couple. Your toast should be heartfelt, sincere, and a memorable message to the newlyweds.

4. Steal the show by proposing

Weddings are not about the guests; they’re about the couple. Keeping that in mind is crucial. Some might see a wedding as a romantic, opportune time to propose to your significant other — it isn’t. 

Instead, proposing at someone else’s wedding is stealing the spotlight from the couple, making it inconsiderate. Avoid doing anything to shift the focus from the couple’s special day, as they deserve all the attention.

5. Bring an uninvited date or rowdy children

Invites are given out intentionally, so pay close attention to who is invited. Sometimes, the couple may ask that you don’t invite a plus one (unless you’re married) or even children. 

As the couple only has limited seats, they may have had to make the hard decision to leave some friends out to invite you. In addition, bringing children to a wedding that the couple has asked to be child-free, can cause havoc and disrupt the ceremony. Unfortunately, if you can’t find someone to babysit your children, it’s best to politely decline the invitation.


Weddings are special occasions and respecting the couple’s wishes and following basic wedding etiquette is essential. Avoiding our five surefire ways to ruin a wedding will ensure the newlyweds have a great time and other guests can enjoy the celebration too. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a great time and not be the reason for any disastrous stories.

And for help with New England event rentals, give us a call at Sperry Tents Seacoast!

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