You Plan to Start on Time? Really? Really!
Have you ever attended an event where you sat around wondering when things would get started? Maybe you waited 20 or 30 minutes or more with no communication from the hosts. A few years ago I received an invitation to a relative's wedding with instructions to call a friend of the bride's mother to RSVP. When I called, I explained that I had a wedding rehearsal that evening so I would be attending only the reception. The person responded, "We won't be starting on time, so you shouldn't be late." What? Excuse me! This was several weeks before the wedding yet they intentionally planned to start late.
Beginning an event late, whether intentionally or because of an unforeseeable situation, is extremely rude and disrespectful of everyone's time. The guests didn't arrive at the stated time only to be held hostage, possibly in the heat and/or on uncomfortable chairs, while the hosts scurry around in the background finishing dressing or adding the last touches to the decor.
Photographers and videographers are often paid by the hour, so starting late costs money, not to mention aggravation, when they don't have time to get all the requested shots without going into overtime. Caterers expect to serve their food at the designated time, fresh and warm, not cold and soggy. Less than appealing food is a reflection on the caterer, even if it isn't their fault. Limos and other special transportation are hired by the hour.They will have booked events before and after yours. Running late? You might be walking.
Starting an event more than about five minutes late is discourteous to everyone involved. If a serious emergency occurs, have someone inform the guests and the event planner so alternative plans can be made, which might include cancelling the event entirely or bringing out the punch and hors d'oeuvres early while guests are waiting. If you don't consider the needs of your guests, chances are some of them will leave.
Hosting a party or a wedding is not an excuse for bad behavior. Take time to think about how you would feel if you were a guest or someone working at the event, then act accordingly.
Beginning an event late, whether intentionally or because of an unforeseeable situation, is extremely rude and disrespectful of everyone's time. The guests didn't arrive at the stated time only to be held hostage, possibly in the heat and/or on uncomfortable chairs, while the hosts scurry around in the background finishing dressing or adding the last touches to the decor.
Photographers and videographers are often paid by the hour, so starting late costs money, not to mention aggravation, when they don't have time to get all the requested shots without going into overtime. Caterers expect to serve their food at the designated time, fresh and warm, not cold and soggy. Less than appealing food is a reflection on the caterer, even if it isn't their fault. Limos and other special transportation are hired by the hour.They will have booked events before and after yours. Running late? You might be walking.
Starting an event more than about five minutes late is discourteous to everyone involved. If a serious emergency occurs, have someone inform the guests and the event planner so alternative plans can be made, which might include cancelling the event entirely or bringing out the punch and hors d'oeuvres early while guests are waiting. If you don't consider the needs of your guests, chances are some of them will leave.
Hosting a party or a wedding is not an excuse for bad behavior. Take time to think about how you would feel if you were a guest or someone working at the event, then act accordingly.
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