Wedding planning is often regarded as one of the most stressful things a person can do, made no less stressful by the guests themselves once the invitations have been sent out. New research has revealed the most annoying guest behaviours that irk British couples on their big day.
According to a recent survey by leading free wedding planning site Hitched.co.uk, the most annoying question a guest can ask after receiving their invitation is whether they can bring a plus one or a child, with almost 70% of respondents citing this. The second-most annoying question was how to RSVP, despite this information being provided, which frustrated 18% of couples.
With many couples now using free wedding websites to communicate details to guests, it is unacceptable to ask questions already covered, such as requesting a special menu (8%) or asking for venue details (5%).
Leading up to the big day, over half (53%) said questions around the seating plan and who guests would be sat with were the most annoying. Asking if they could make a speech also frustrated 38% of couples.
Hitched’s editor Zoe Burke said, “Couples put a lot of time into their wedding websites – they match the theme, have cute stories and that all-important FAQs page. It’s the perfect way to anticipate guest questions so no one bothers you asking if they can bring extra people or give a speech.”
On the wedding day itself, 38% were most annoyed by guests trying to be the centre of attention when the focus should be on the couple. Getting too drunk too soon also frustrated 32%, and getting in the photographer’s way irked 17%.
Other annoying behaviours were guests constantly being on their phones (13%) and complaining about the food (9%). Lateness was also an issue, with 8% citing late arrivals as annoying.
A third of couples (32%) said they wished they had included clearer guidance for guests on etiquette and behaviour expectations via their wedding website or invites.
Burke advised, “It can feel awkward spelling out rules for your guests but often people simply don’t know what’s expected. Providing some gentle guidance on your website around things like excessive drinking, using phones respectfully and timeliness can avoid irritation on the day.”
The research also revealed the guest behaviours that delighted couples on their big day. Heartfelt, personalised speeches were most appreciated, with 47% saying these meant a lot. Guests making the effort to dress nicely was also valued by 36%.
Small touches like congratulatory handwritten cards (26%) and thoughtful gifts based on registry suggestions (24%) did not go unnoticed. Others were grateful for guests who helped make things run smoothly behind the scenes (19%) and those who bonded with unfamiliar guests to make them feel included (17%).
