Handling Guest Issues at a Small Wedding

For some, getting the whole family together for a big party is a dream. For others, it’s a nightmare that they wish they could avoid.

 

It’s no secret that there can sometimes be drama at weddings, especially when you bring people from multiple families together. But what happens if your guest list is cut significantly and suddenly there are no buffer family members or plus-ones to help settle drama between parties? Don’t worry, we’re here to help!

 

First, choose your guest list wisely.

We know it is no fun to cut out family members from your guest list, even if you know they might cause drama. Thankfully, there is a way they can still participate in your special day. Invite those drama-filled guests to your wedding live stream instead, that way they won’t be able to start any issues in person.

 

Rely on social distancing and assigned seating.

These days, it’s actually encouraged to spread guests out at a wedding. So, take advantage of that by ensuring your guests with the highest potential to cause issues are spread out as far as possible. Assigned seating, both at the ceremony and the reception, will encourage these guests to stay in their assigned areas.

 

Hire a skilled master of ceremonies.

Your MC or DJ can play a crucial role in keeping the night on track, allowing less downtime where guests might go rogue. If you are concerned about guests causing issues, let your MC know to stick to a schedule that involves the guests taking actions (for example, getting food when their table is called, then sitting back down). This will prevent mingling from getting out of hand.

 

Opt for waitstaff for food and beverages.

The line at the bar is always a risky place. In COVID times, it’s generally a good idea to prevent gathering in one place, anyways. The fact that having waiters taking drink orders and delivering beverages to tables can also prevent your estranged uncles who never liked each other from chatting is just icing on the wedding cake.

 

End the night early.

Again, small weddings are the norm during these times. It’s also common to forego a dance floor because it can be difficult to maintain social distancing while dancing. So, embrace the new normal and end your reception after dessert. Not only is it safer for your guests, it’s also a great opportunity to plan a big party a few years from now to make up for the lack of normalcy in recent months.

Photo credit: Love In Motion

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Wedding Etiquette Tips for Virtual Guests