If you've ever been a wedding guest yourself, you know that it doesn't hurt to know what to do when wedding guest run-ins go wrong. You might have witnessed a wedding host experience an awkward position when they've had to diffuse a nasty scuffle between their great aunt Gertrude and their grandma Eloise. If it's anything that happens when old family and friends are thrown together after many months or years, it's drama! Some family members hold grudges, and others gossip and cause trouble. Whatever their beef is, it shouldn't bubble up during your reception, but sometimes it does and you have to know how to deflect it.
While you're certainly not expected to play the role of a babysitter or ringmaster on your special day, not every guest will act like a grown-up when they're confronted with family drama. When all is said and done, it'll be up to you and your partner to keep the peace, especially if the scuffle happens when you're making your rounds to mingle with everyone.
Use these tips to manage bad guest run-ins on your wedding day:
Change the subject -Yup. When things start to get dicey, use the old change-the-subject tactic. Talk about the weather, ask about their travels, or simply discuss the wedding. Do whatever you have to do to steer the focus away from the source of the argument and back toward the important stuff.
Break it up -Another tactic to try when wedding guest run-ins go wrong is to break up the scuffle the moment you notice it. You can do this by subtly separating each party or by dividing the conversation. Have your partner talk to one person, and you talk to the other. This will help diffuse the tension.
Leave the scene -When things get really awkward or you just don't want to waste your time getting in the middle of the drama, just leave the scene. Chances are the trouble makers of the party won't care. After all, the bride and groom will be busy throughout the event, and even the most stubborn guest will be aware of this. Don't worry about coming off rude at that point. Just bow out gracefully. This is the best thing to do when wedding guest run-ins go wrong.
