What's the Right Amount to Drink at Your Wedding?

Unless you're a teetotaler, pregnant or having a dry wedding (in which case, we totally support your decision to abstain from alcohol on your day), there's a good chance you're considering celebrating with some champagne—or other spirits—for your wedding. Yes, some people might tell you to stay sober at your reception so you can remember everything in detail, which is great advice to heed if that's what you want. But we also think there are other ways of being able to kick back, relax and celebrate after months of wedding planning—and still walk away knowing you savored every moment.

Know Your Limit

It should go without saying that you definitely don't want to "black out" at your wedding. Seriously, the last thing you want is to wake up the morning after your nuptials and realize you remember nothing since saying your vows at the altar. Nightmarish, right? That's why you should decide ahead of time what your limit is. Of course it depends on the person, but if you've noticed you get excessively tipsy after three glasses of wine at dinner with your partner, maybe make the decision to stop at two (or even one) at your reception so you don't accidentally go overboard. (And take into account you might want to pop some bottles with your wedding party while you're getting ready.) You don't want anything to be blurry about the night, but you do probably want to feel like you had fun. Just realize your limit, plan ahead and stick to it.

Eat Something!

We know, this should go without saying, but between your reception nerves and all of the mingling you'll be doing to make time for every single guest, your appetite may be deterred. Which is why we're reminding you: It's so important to remember to eat in this situation. If need be, make a pact with your partner to keep an eye on each other to make sure you're eating enough—and also refraining from making too many trips to the bar, especially on an empty stomach.

Cheers—Occasionally

Speaking of that open bar: People will probably be handing you drinks all night long. And keep in mind that it's totally okay to turn down a shot or a vodka tonic. If a guest insists and you don't want to offend them, accept the drink, take a sip, and put it down on a table when they're not looking.

Just remember: Your wedding is one of the biggest celebrations you'll ever have, and if it'll help you have the best night of your life, have a drink (or three). We totally support that. But you might regret it if you go overboard. The bottom line is, find your own happy, tipsy medium between stone-cold sober and sloppy drunk to the point you're slurring your words (which is something we don't support). Either way, have fun and, most importantly, drink responsibly.