Prevent That ONE Relative From Offending at Your Wedding

by Jennifer Tzeses, Posted Mar 25th 2011 10:00AM

offensive wedding guests Getty Images

Weddings, which can (and should!) be full of pure blissful moments, can also bring about some not-so-blissful experiences. We asked etiquette expert Jodi R.R. Smith, owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting in Massachusetts and author of From Clueless to Class Act, for some advice on how to handle certain sticky, and often unavoidable, situations. So no matter what comes your way, you'll be able to talk through it WITHOUT losing your cool.

Your uncle is sure to say something offensive during your wedding and reception. How do you handle this sticky situation?

Helpful Planning Resources: Wedding Etiquette by Peggy Post

Don't sweat it! This is one situation where you need to release control and just enjoy the day. As a bride, you'll have a thousand things you'll be thinking about other than Uncle Joe's dinner conversation. But, to be on the safe side and keep him in line, assign a relative to shadow him throughout the night. This way, she can steer uncomfortable conversation to other topics and make sure he doesn't get anywhere near a microphone! If need be, you can also pass his picture to the bartender to limit his scotch consumption.

More from Jodi R.R. Smith of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting:

How to Deal with an Overbearing Mother-In-Law

How to Tell a Friend She's Not One of Your Bridesmaids

What to Do If You Can't Afford to Invite Every Guest With a Plus One

What to Do If You're Afraid Your Mom Will Wear Something Awful to Your Wedding

Tags: offensive relative, sticky situation, wedding day planning, wedding reception etiquette