Fifteen years ago, my journey as a Texas wedding photographer began with a simple but profound purpose: to preserve love in its most radiant, fleeting form. Over the years, I’ve quietly observed thousands of moments through my lens — laughter shared between old friends, joyful tears from proud parents, and yes, a few moments that probably shouldn’t have happened during a ceremony. So if you’re attending a wedding, here are the do’s and don’ts every guest should know to make the day truly special for the couple.

DO: Arrive on Time (Or Early)

There is nothing more disruptive than guests slipping into a ceremony after it has begun. Arriving 15 to 20 minutes early gives you time to find your seat, soak in the surroundings, and be fully present. Trust me, the sound of heels on tile or the shuffle of chairs as the bride walks down the aisle is not the background ambiance couples are dreaming of.

DON’T: Wear White (or Anything That Steals the Spotlight)

It is a classic rule for a reason. Let the couple shine, both literally and figuratively. This day is about them. Unless the invitation specifically states a white dress code, it is best to choose something elegant, appropriate, and not designed to draw every eye in the room.

DO: Silence Your Phone (and Tuck It Away)

I have seen countless vows obscured by glowing screens. While I understand the desire to capture a quick photo, the couple has likely hired a professional photographer (hi, that is me) to preserve these memories with care and artistry. Your greatest gift? Being fully present. Snap a selfie at cocktail hour, not during the kiss.

DON’T: Bring an Uninvited Plus One

Weddings are carefully curated with headcounts, budgets, and seating charts in mind. If your name and only your name is on the invitation, consider it an honor and resist the temptation to ask if you can bring a date. Respecting the couple’s guest list is one of the simplest ways to show love.

DO: Participate Joyfully

Whether it is tearing up during the vows, raising a glass during the toast, or dancing your heart out to a late 2000s throwback, your energy contributes to the magic of the day. Be present. Be kind. Celebrate wholeheartedly.

DON’T: Post Before the Couple Does

In our hyper connected world, it is easy to want to share every sweet detail. But before you upload a photo of the bride walking down the aisle or the first kiss, wait until the couple shares their own images or until you see a hashtag or sign that says it is okay. Let them control the narrative of their big day.

DO: Follow the Dress Code

If the invitation says black tie, go all out. If it says casual garden party, leave the sequins at home. Matching the couple’s requested style is not just polite — it shows you are invested in honoring the aesthetic and experience they have so thoughtfully planned.

A Final Thought

At every wedding I photograph, I am reminded that love in its purest form is worth showing up for with our best selves. When you honor the couple’s day with thoughtfulness and grace, you become a part of that love story too. So if you are attending a wedding, here are the do’s and don’ts every guest should know: dress well, arrive on time, celebrate big, and put your phone away during the kiss. Let the day belong to them.

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Kind Word

“My goal as your photographer is to provide joy filled, modern images that capture moments as they happen. Not only that, but I you to be able to look back in 50 years and love them as much as the day you received them!”