It is well past mid Summer and some wedding bells have come and gone while many are still forthcoming. If you are privileged enough, and yes we say privileged to be invited to a friend's or even a family member's wedding, here a few things to help you navigate what can be at times a complex and even awkward social issue.

Wedding etiquette has evolved over time and is influenced by time, place and culture. There are many questions and uncertainties that come into play but there are some definites that come into play. It is these definites that we use to provide today's crash course: Wedding Etiquette 101.

On RSVPs:

Do:Respond as soon as you receive the Invitation; any and all delays makes planning difficult for the hosts.

Do NotAsk to bring a guest. If a 'plus one' is not on the invitation, you are being invited alone.

On dress codes

Do:Follow the dress code when indicated but feel free to add your personal style.

Do notWear white or anything that could steal the bride's thunder. This is her day, period!

On bringing your children:

Do:Confirm if they are able to join(ONLY when invited) and if they have any dietary needs.

Do notAssume. If your kids are not listed on the invite they are probably not invited and you should check in with the hosts if you have questions.Remember it is NOT personal unless you make it so.

On timing :

Do: Arrive on time!Preferably at least a half an hour before the start time indicated on the invitation,

Do not:Show up half-way through the ceremony and walk right in(you know, like it is your grandmother's house).If you must, quietly make your way to the very back of the room instead of trying to find where your family or friends are sitting to join them.

On Photography & Social Media

Do:Be respectful of what you post. Not every bride and groom wants to publicize their wedding on social media, or sometimes they like to be the first to get it out there! Unless you work for the Washington Post, don't be a third rate photojournalist!

Do notobstruct or hinder the professional photo and videographers who are probably doing a better job than you. Respect the sanctity of the venue, especially in places of worship.

On Speeches

Do:Address the couple not just one or the other. Also, thank them for being gracious hosts.

Do not:Speak too long.(it is not the State of the Union address)2 to 3 minutes is the perfect time for toasts! This captures the attention of the guests and keeps pace with the program!

On Drinking:

Do:Drink and have a wonderful time but maybe avoid mixing different types of alcohol,even if it is an open bar.The price could be hefty in the morning, hangover -speaking!

Do not:Get so drunk that you might embarrass yourself or the couple, remember these are memories that last a lifetime.

If you have food allergies & preferences:

Do:Let the wedding planner or hosts know ahead of time.

Do not:Wait until the wedding for very specific requests. Remember just because you don't like carrots does not mean the entire wedding menu should be overhauled.

When in doubt:

Do:Reach out. Finding out from the couple is the best thing to do.

Do not:Assume.It Is always best to check with the hosts if you are unsure about anything and this is where event planners can be super helpful so no one is unnecessarily stressing the bride and groom.

If you are in the wedding (Bridal ) party:

Do:Show up and on time to scheduled bridal party events.

Do notDrink too much before the wedding begins,once all the scheduled events and toasts are out the way then it is time to party!

The least thoughtful things you can do:

Show up late or bring uninvited guests.

Get too adventurous on the dance floor and end up at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Trust me an ambulance ride is very costly!

The most thoughtful things you can do:

Help and be respectful to the elderly, family members and mind your own children ( if invited).

Ship your gift,if you can so the couple does not have to bring it home that night.

Know the crowd.Weddings are always multi generational, do not dance inappropriately in a bid to prove you are the man or woman! This day already has one of those: the married couple!

Lastly, don't argue the invitation! If invited alone, it most likely is not an oversight! The couple has other friends and they are looking at the big picture! It is their day, they choose who to invite, if your spouse, child, uncle or visiting second cousin from Albuquerque, New Mexico is not invited, well they will have to sit this one out, there will always be others!

And Oh by the way.......If you re NOT invited, Do NOT show up! Weddings are special events for the couple, their families and invited guests. They are NOT an opportunity for you to showcase your new outfit to boost your social media image.