Six Simple Ways to Help Your Wedding Guests to Follow a Dress Code
We all want our wedding day to be special, unique even. A great way to ensure that is exactly what happens is to set a theme. Then, ask your guest to enter into the spirit of things by dressing in a way that works with that theme. Most brides and grooms would really like that but are a little worried about how to persuade their guests to follow a dress code.
Naturally, you do not want to be pushy or bossy about it. But, you would like the majority of your guests to make the effort. So, how do you do that? Well, actually it is easier than you think.
Be realistic
The first tip is to set a reasonable theme. You want the dress code to be something guests can easily follow. When you come up with an idea take the time to click here and look at what type of suits, dresses and other clothing are available from mainstream retailers. There is no point in asking people to follow an Edwardian theme if that style of suit is not readily available or cannot easily be hired. Even if they wanted to most guests will not be able to follow your theme.
Be clear about what the theme is
It is best to include details of any theme or dress code on your actual wedding invitation. Add it as a PS on the invitation. Something like –
- Our wedding is Jane Eyre themed. Please, feel free to join in and dress accordingly. For inspiration, take a look at …
If you can, point them towards a particular website, film or TV show to give them a better idea of what you mean. Never assume that all of your guests will instantly understand what your theme actually is and what attire would be right for the occasion.
Explain things on your wedding website
These days, a lot of brides and grooms set up a small website for their wedding. This is the perfect place to explain the theme and dress code in more detail. If you have done this, include your wedding website address on your invitations.
Set up a Pinterest board
If you do not want to set up a wedding website, consider using a Pinterest board instead to get the message across. You can see an example of this approach by clicking this link.
Host a themed party
If you have the time and resources, you could host a party that has a similar theme to the one you are planning to use for your wedding. For an ordinary party, people are more likely to be relaxed enough to wear something a bit different and join in the fun. Once at the party, they will, no doubt, get some inspiration from the outfits of other guests. When they see you using a similar theme for your wedding, they will have a far better idea of how to dress to fit in with your theme.
Ask your other guests to help you
Often, the theme you want to follow will reflect an interest, lifestyle or hobby that you share with your close friends. If that is the case, recruit them to help your other wedding guests to better understand your theme and how to dress appropriately. They will usually be more than pleased to help.
More wedding guest advice
The more you can gently persuade your guests to enter into the spirit of your special day, the better time everyone will have. We have written several wedding guest related articles to help you to help them to get the most out of your special day. You can read one of them here.
