A Reddit user sought advice on whether it was acceptable to leave a wedding early. The user explained that the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and after-party would last from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., which seemed too long for her. Additionally, she mentioned that the wedding was 60 miles out of town, and she was attending alone as her partner couldn’t make it due to a back injury. The guest expressed concerns about being an introvert and not being good at small talk. She asked if it would be respectful to leave the wedding at around 8:30 p.m. or earlier.
Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore stated that it was perfectly acceptable for the Reddit user to leave the wedding early, as long as she thanked the bride and groom before exiting. This act of appreciation is a proper etiquette gesture. Other Reddit users also shared their opinions, with most saying it was fine to leave before the end of the reception as long as it wasn’t during a crucial moment, such as cake cutting or special dances. One person who recently got married mentioned that they didn’t mind when guests left early, showing that different couples have varying perspectives on guest attendance duration.
The discussion on social media highlighted the importance of showing gratitude and respect towards the hosts before leaving a wedding early. While the Reddit user expressed concerns about feeling out of place due to being an introvert and attending the wedding alone, others reassured her that it was acceptable to depart at a reasonable time. The etiquette expert emphasized the significance of thanking the bride and groom as part of proper etiquette. Different opinions were shared, with some saying it was fine to leave post-dinner if an RSVP was made, while others mentioned that they didn’t mind when guests left before certain events during their own weddings.
Overall, the social media conversation showcased a variety of perspectives on the topic of leaving a wedding early. The Reddit user seeking advice was concerned about socializing at the event due to being an introvert and attending without a partner. By asking for opinions online, she received reassurance that leaving at 8:30 p.m. or earlier would be acceptable as long as she thanked the hosts before departing. The responses from other users and the etiquette expert highlighted the importance of showing appreciation for the invitation and being mindful of the timing of one’s exit.
In conclusion, the Reddit user’s query about leaving a wedding early sparked a discussion on social media regarding proper etiquette and guest behavior at such events. Advice from an etiquette expert and various Reddit users emphasized the importance of expressing gratitude to the hosts before leaving and being considerate of the timing of one’s departure. Different views were shared, with some couples being more understanding of guests leaving early, while others had specific expectations of guest attendance duration. Overall, the conversation shed light on the importance of manners and respect when participating in weddings and other formal events.
