How to Handle a Drunk Wedding Guest

It would be nice if the out-of-control drunk wedding guest was only a cliché. Sometimes an open bar is too much temptation and a guest overdoes it at a wedding. But with some quick thinking, and a lot of discretion, the happy couple's special day can be saved.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Find an event coordinator if you observe a wedding guest drinking too much. An event coordinator will probably have some experience handling inebriated guests.

2. Find a bridesmaid or groomsman if you can't find an event coordinator. Don't be embarrassed to tell someone. They will probably be grateful you did before the guest does something shocking or drives drunk.

3. Do not tell the bride or groom. Keep the situation discreet. There's no reason to let this ruin the couple's happy day.

4. Feed the inebriated guest. Food can help slow down the rate at which the body absorbs alcohol. But be careful the drunk guest doesn't get sick.

5. Try to escort them away from the reception–into a lobby or another area where there are less guests, in an effort to prevent any embarrassing antics.

6. Get the guest's keys. The most important thing is making sure he or she doesn't drive. Find out if the bride and groom made any special arrangements for post-wedding transportation for inebriated guests. If the reception is at a hotel, find out if there are any hotel rooms available to guests. Convince the guest to stay at a hotel or get a ride home.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're planning a wedding, and want to prevent overly drunk guests from ruining your day make sure you have plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks on hand. Consider having transportation available take inebriated guests home. They might be less likely to fight a cab ride if it's a free cab ride. Prior to the wedding day consider appointing a non-drinker to keep an eye out for guests who have had one too many.
• If you're a guest, remember that it is not okay to get obnoxiously drunk at a wedding. You don't have to avoid drinking, but respect your limits. Plan for a designated driver.
• If a drunken wedding guest gets into an accident, the host of the event could be held liable.

Resources

• Wedding Blog
• Wedding Planning Website