Heading To A Wedding In The USA
We’re a multi-cultural bunch here at Staggered and we’ve extended the hand of friendship across the Atlantic with a bit of guest posting on US wedding site The Man Registry (you can read the Editor’s advice for Yanks attending weddings in the UK here). To continue the cultural exchange we’ve let Chris Easter (Co-Founder of TheManRegistry) have his say for anyone who finds themselves heading to the US for a wedding. Take it Chris:
****************
First off, let me say that you should be honored to have been invited to an American wedding. It’s a privilege to be a guest at one our country’s 2.5 million annual weddings….
…………..
OK, anyone still reading after that intro? Now, you didn’t actually think you would read a blog from an American without some sense of arrogance? Of course, I’m kidding. Contrary to many popular beliefs (and the world’s view of the US over the last 8 years), the average American does not think he rules the world. In fact, we Americans thoroughly enjoy meeting people from all different cultures and walks of life – and a wedding is the perfect place to do so.
If you‘re worried about not being prepared for an American wedding, TheManRegistry.com has you covered. The leading website for grooms in the US has prepared this primer guide on the ins and outs of being a guest at an American wedding.
It’s all about the schedule
If there’s one thing that you absolutely must remember to pack, it’s your watch. American weddings run like clockwork and a guest being late to the wedding ceremony is not an option. The Allied forces may have eliminated the Nazis after World War II, but you’ll discover they’ve been reincarnated (as wedding coordinators). Don’t even think about walking into the church after the wedding party procession starts or you’ll be leaving the country faster than you can say Boston Tea Party. You’ve been warned.
Bring a notepad (we’re gonna teach you how to drink).
There is no question more important to ask about a US wedding than, “Is there an open bar?” Let’s be honest, why would you fly halfway around the world for a wedding without free booze? No dice? No worries. This is what flasks were invented before. Trust me, bringing a flask to a wedding will do nothing but take your stock through the roof with the ladies.
Also, I have to mention that my dear friend Andrew from Staggered is apparently not aware of the American drinking prowess [ED - hahahahahahaahahahahahahahahahaha. Sorry, as you were.]. If you’ve got an extra week to spare, I strongly encourage you to try and make it over in time for the bachelor party (or stag night). This generally happens over the weekend preceding the wedding.
Dress to Impress
You don’t have to dress like you’re going to tea with the Queen, but it’s a good mindset to have. It’s considered offensive to the Father of the Bride (who generally foots the bill for the wedding) to show up in jeans, tennis shoes, sandals or anything else that can be purchased at Old Navy. Suits and colorful ties seem to be the current trend.
Throwin’ Game
American girls are always flocking to what’s new and mysterious. In this case, that will be you. Here’s some tips for making sure you don’t end the night falling asleep to re-runs of ‘Friends’ in the hotel room.
- Americans LOVE ‘The Mighty Boosh’ right now. Throw out some Old Gregg quotes and you’ll have it made in the shade.
- American girls think footballers are dead sexy. Tell her about you’re old playing days (before the knee injury finished your career). I GUARANTEE you this will work.
- Take a look at the ladies that are hanging at the bar all night. These are your best bets for the impromptu one-night stand.
- Scope out the after party scene. As the reception is dying down, the folks at the bar will begin discussing which local watering hole the party is moving to. This is where you want to be for all of the late-night shenanigans to come.
Buy a gift from a registry
As I’m sure you know, nothing annoys Americans more than not getting what they want. The point of the wedding gift registry is just that. I strongly encourage you to purchase a wedding gift that the couple has specifically asked for (even if it’s something as ridiculous as a crystal food bowl for their cat). Most couples create a wedding website that includes info for all of their gift registries. This info should be included on the invitation.
Practice paying attention (or keeping your eyes open)
Americans like to hear the sounds of their own voice. This explains why each wedding reception generally includes 3-5 toasts. You didn’t hear this from me, but the toasts might be a good time to get in a quick cat nap and rest up for the dancing and partying to come.
Come hungry
The rumors are true. The portions of food in the US are huge, so don’t snack before heading to the wedding. Plan on healthy portions of meat, salad, a few sides and as much wedding cake as you want for dessert. Also, the US has become very diet conscious in recent years. If you have a specific food allergy or dietary need, let the hosts know beforehand. They’ll most likely be able to set you up with something that’s not going to have you running to the bathroom when you should be owning the dance floor.
Have any other burning questions that we didn’t cover? Feel free to shoot us an e-mail to info@themanregistry.com. We’ll do our best to help get you prepared for your big journey to the states.
Cheers!
Related Posts:
[...] this detailed account on what it’s like to attend a wedding in the UK. In turn, we supplied a guide to attending an American wedding for our friends in [...]
Leave your response!