Planning a wedding can be stressful as well as fun and romantic. It can also be stressful, particularly as the day draws closer.

Here are some simple tips for guests that will help make the wedding planning as stress-free as possible for the couple:

RSVP as soon as you can

It is very helpful if you reply to the invitation to the wedding as soon as you can. Don’t wait for the deadline. Also, don’t assume the couple know you’re going to attend. Reply with a written response or by email, phone or text as indicated on the invitation.

If you cannot attend, give a reason so they know it’s not personal. The couple understand that not everyone will be able to attend. If you’re unsure about whether you can attend, let the couple know that you’re trying to make arrangements and tell them when you can give a definite answer.

Bring a gift

No couple gets married just so they can get lots of presents. The couple fully understand that it costs money to join wedding celebrations. If you can’t afford a gift, let the bride and groom know money is tight and perhaps offer to help with wedding preparations in lieu of a gift.

While you may think a gift registry is dull or even tacky, they are items the happy couple want (or need). Buy your gift from the registry before the wedding date. The bride and groom will be excited to see the first items disappear from their registry, and will wonder who their mystery purchasers might be.

Share dietary requirements

In the month before the wedding, the bride and groom need to confirm the menu with their reception venue. Don’t assume the bride or groom remembers you’re vegan, have food allergies or religious restrictions. If soon before the big day you haven’t received questions about your dietary requirements, contact the couple. If you forgot to share your dietary requirements until the night, tell your waiter you need something different, don’t bother the bride and groom.

Dress appropriately

If there is a dress code on the invitation, follow the rules. The bride and groom have added a dress code to achieve a certain atmosphere or theme at their wedding. Female guests should not wear white, ivory or cream. Consider if black is appropriate and try not to clash with the bridesmaids.

Check details given

If you have a question about the wedding, check the invitation, wedding website or emails from the happy couple regarding hotels, transport, directions, etc before you bother the bride and groom. If you have a burning question in the final week before the wedding, ask one of the bridal party or a family member to keep the pressure off the couple. Any questions on the day, ask the wedding planner.