13 Mistakes Guests Always Make at a Wedding, According to Planners

Image Via Kerry Ann Duffy Photography

Weddings are joyous celebrations, but let’s be real—guests can (and often do) make a few blunders along the way. As a wedding planner obsessed with creating unforgettable, design-led experiences, I’ve seen it all. From wardrobe mishaps to social media faux pas, here are the 13 biggest guest mistakes—and how I ensure the weddings I plan run seamlessly, with none of these issues getting in the way of the magic.

1. Ignoring the Dress Code

A carefully curated wedding aesthetic can be completely thrown off when guests don’t follow the dress code. Black tie means black tie, and a boho-chic garden party doesn’t mean jeans and trainers.

How I help: I ensure clear communication about attire, including visuals and mood boards for guests, if needed, so they know exactly what’s expected. No awkward outfit clashes here.

2. Showing Up Late

There’s nothing more disruptive than a guest sneaking in after the bride has already started walking down the aisle.

How I help: Timelines are my forte. Guests receive clear schedules, and I often coordinate with the venue to have reminders sent out. I also advise couples on setting an earlier “guest arrival” time to allow for stragglers.

3. Bringing Plus-Ones That Weren’t Invited

If the invitation didn’t say “+1,” that means the couple has carefully considered the guest list. Extra guests put pressure on seating plans, catering, and even the vibe of the wedding.

How I help: My client communications are crystal clear, and I offer couples the option of a bespoke RSVP management service to gently remind guests of their invite status.

4. Overindulging at the Bar (Too Early!)

We love a party. But going too hard, too fast? That’s a recipe for chaos. No one wants an embarrassing dance floor moment before the cake has even been cut.

How I help: I work with top-tier bartenders to create a drink service that encourages pacing—think cocktails with food pairings, timed drink service, and sophisticated alternatives to keep everyone stylishly sipping.

5. Posting Ceremony Photos Too Soon

Many couples prefer an unplugged ceremony or want to control what’s shared online. Posting an unflattering snap of the bride before she’s even seen the official photos? Not cool.

How I help: I create stylish signage and announcements to remind guests of the couple’s social media wishes, keeping the moment intimate and special.

6. Ignoring the Seating Plan

Table plans are there for a reason—strategically placed to create the best flow of conversation and energy.

How I help: I design seating charts that feel intentional and easy to navigate. Guests will be guided seamlessly to their spot, making the transition from drinks to dinner effortless.

7. Giving a Long (or Unexpected) Speech

If you haven’t been asked to give a speech, don’t take the mic. And if you have, keep it short and sweet—no one enjoys a rambling 20-minute monologue.

How I help: I work with the couple to coordinate a structured, well-paced timeline so speeches are impactful without dragging on.

8. Wearing White (or Anything Too Attention-Grabbing)

This one should go without saying, but somehow, it still happens. Guests turning up in bridal-esque gowns, over-the-top statement looks, or anything that feels like an attempt to upstage? Nope.

How I help: I provide my couples with wording to include in their invites or wedding website, making it clear what is and isn’t appropriate.

9. Not Respecting the Photography Schedule

Guests disappearing right before group photos or stepping into the aisle for an iPhone snap can throw off the photographer’s carefully planned shots.

How I help: I coordinate with photographers to ensure guests know when and where they’re needed—so every moment is beautifully captured without chaos.

10. Bringing an Oversized Gift to the Venue

A wedding isn’t the time to lug in a huge, beautifully wrapped blender. Most couples prefer gifts sent directly to their home.

How I help: I remind guests in pre-wedding communications about gift preferences, registry links, and logistics—keeping everything stress-free for the couple.

11. Requesting Songs That Don't Fit the Vibe

If the couple has curated a playlist or hired a DJ to set a specific mood, guests requesting the Macarena might not be ideal.

How I help: I work closely with entertainment teams to craft a musical flow that keeps the energy right—no rogue requests throwing off the atmosphere.

12. Taking Centre Stage on the Dance Floor

Yes, we love enthusiasm, but wedding guests trying to steal the show (or attempting an unsolicited speech, performance, or dance-off) can shift the focus away from the couple.

How I help: I subtly manage the flow of the night, ensuring the energy stays on the couple while encouraging a fabulous party atmosphere.

13. Dashing Too Early (or Lingering Too Late)

Ghosting before the first dance? Awkward. Hanging around long after the newlyweds have left? Also awkward.

How I help: I create a well-timed, exciting flow that keeps guests engaged, from an epic send-off moment to ensuring transportation is lined up for a smooth exit.

A Flawless Guest Experience Starts with Thoughtful Planning

A wedding should be about effortless joy and unforgettable moments—not logistical headaches or guest faux pas. That’s where I come in. With my design-led, high-touch planning approach, I create experiences that are seamless, stylish, and stress-free for everyone involved—couples and guests alike.

Ready to plan a wedding where everything runs like clockwork? Let’s talk.