Not long ago photo booths were only found at arcades and the movie theater. You had to have cash on hand and 15 seconds to cram all your friends into a tiny space. (Don’t forget you needed scissors to cut up the photo sheet of images that popped out of the machine!) Now photo booths still evoke our nostalgia but are so much more thanks to props, backdrops, and lighting! Best of all, they are easy to create with a small budget (and a little imagination) for your own wedding!
Your photographer or videographer can’t be everywhere at the reception and may miss capturing some of your BFFs celebrating. Building a photo booth is a great way to seize those candid moments and have fun with your loved ones. Several companies have started renting photo booths that are easy to transport. However, if your budget doesn’t allow for one learn how to make your own in this article.
______________________
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn't have to be hard. SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you're ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals get started now.
______________________
DIY Wedding Photo Booth Planning Questions
Here are a few things you’ll need to consider before your DIY wedding photo booth project.
How much space do you have to set up a wedding photo booth?
Your photo booth will need to be located in a place where your wedding guests can easily find it. Allow for enough space for guests taking the photo to not feel crowded. You should also allow enough room when people start to gather around to wait in line. Consider setting up the booth in the following areas:
- a corner of the reception area
- in a lobby or the hallway outside the reception, so your wedding guests see the setup when they walk in.
- by the door near your wedding favors so guests will stop by before they leave the party
What backdrop style do you want?
The backdrop is where you can let your wedding personality shine. Maybe you want to go full glam with a glittering backdrop, strings of lights, neon signs, or sparkles. Perhaps you want the backdrop to match your florals. If this is the case you may need to hire the assistance of your florist for the task. You even can go simple polaroid frame cut out and make every photo look consistent and uniform. The options are endless with curtains, custom signage, rustic doors, or even balloons.
Also, consider the setting. If you want your photo booth to be a sitting area so you can plan for chairs or a couch. Whatever look you lean towards, there is definitely a way to make it yourself! Or you can find a premade option that may already exist and is ready for purchase.
What type of tech equipment do you need?
You don’t have to be overly tech-savvy when it comes to your DIY wedding photo booth setup. However, you need to decide if someone will take the photos for you or if you will rely on your guests and their camera phones. Take time to research the best app for sending and receiving the images so that everyone has access. You can also use an iPad for the station or an all-in-one photo booth rental option. You don’t want your photobooth connected to someone’s actual phone but still have access to share photos with your guests.
Other helpful gadgets would be:
- a selfie stick
- a ring light
- a tripod
Better yet if you want to rev up the sentimental factor, buy a polaroid and let guests walk out holding the images.
Don’t forget to tell the DJ or band to play Outkast’s, “Hey Ya!” when announcing the photo booth location!
Will your area have lighting?
Most venues dim the lights for the wedding reception. This allows guests to feel more comfortable on the dance floor and to create more of a romantic mood. However, you may want the photo booth area to be well lit.
While camera phones are much better these days you can’t always rely on flash photography. Consider placing the booth near a window that offers natural lighting if your ceremony is during the day. Purchase affordable floor lamps or ask your photographer if they have professional lighting they can set up at the station for you.
Will you provide props for your photo booth?
This is where you can really have fun! Photo booth props are some of the easiest things to round up. You can make your own signs, purchase some from Etsy, grab items around your house, old Halloween costumes, glow sticks, hats, wigs, or even grab a couple of tiaras and crowns. You could buy a small dry erase board, chalkboard, or changeable letter board and let guests make their own signs! Props usually encourage guests to have fun and embrace their goofy side. They aren’t necessary but they sure make for a good laugh!
What items will you order or rent?
Finally, think about what items may just be easiest to order or rent for your DIY Photo Booth. Make a list of what you already have available and what items you want to purchase. Designate a point person to help you set up your photo booth. You’ll want to walk through the logistics of how the area will operate on your actual wedding day. If you need inspiration or help shopping for your wedding photo booth, keep reading!
Everything You Need for a DIY Wedding Photo Booth
Below, we’ve rounded up a list of items you could use to put together your own DIY wedding photo booth. From backdrops to tech essentials and lighting, to props and accessories, here are some great finds to bring your photo booth dreams to life!
Backdrops
Chiffon Curtain
B-Cool • $28.80
Start with the basics. Two chiffon panels each measuring 4.9ft width by 10ft height covering a total area of 9.8ft width by 10ft height. These would be the perfect backdrop to add florals, lights, or other props.
Vinyl Greenery Backdrop
Chaiya • $44.30
Want the look of a greenery backdrop without the cost or hassle? Consider this vinyl backdrop cloth you can paste directly to the wall, use clips, or a stand!
Champagne Glitz Backdrop
EfavormartBoutique • $30.59
Set the stage to exude sparkle and sophistication with this shimmering piece. Crafted with utmost intricacy, this backdrop curtain comprises tons of shimmering sequin rounds laced on a mesh base in the most extravagant style.
White Flower Backdrop
ShowPonyPartyShop• $29.99
Create a focal point at your wedding with this White Flower Backdrop. This cascade of white flowers will look incredible with any theme and will wow your family and friends. Easily hung on walls and doorways or use it for a rustic photo booth backdrop.
Triangle Wedding Arch
EtherealWeddingGift • $144+
This wedding arch is simple and clean with its beautiful design. Dress it up with florals, lighting, and furniture and it can fit any theme whether rustic, boho, or glam.
Balloon Arch Kit
SposamiXSempre • $33.29
Balloon arches are the biggest trend and are affordable and completely DIY. This kit includes everything you need to create a beautiful 16-foot garland. A frame is not included so you’ll need to decide how you want to drap your garland!
Inflatable Photo Booth
Tuoke • $279.99
This is a portable 8.2X8.2X8.2ft inflatable photo booth with colorful LED functions. It is spacious enough for large groups and can create a stunning background, which makes your photos unique and more impressive!
Curtain Lights
JMEXSUSS• $18.99
These curtain lights will add a romantic vibe to your decor as well as provide the perfect backdrop for your DIY photo booth for your guests. They are very suitable for indoor and outdoor decoration.
Custom Backdrop
LynwoodWeddings • $95
Add the perfect touch to your wedding with this custom wedding backdrop. Each backdrop is fully customizable to fit your unique wedding. These backdrops are perfect for a picture area or even to hang off the bride and groom’s table.
Ring Light with Tripod Stand
SENSYNE • $38.99
Hands-free and perfect lighting! This kit includes a tripod stand, remote control, and a ring light with three color modes ( cool white, warm yellow, and daylight!). Just click and shoot for perfect party images.
Sprocket Portable Photo Printer
HP • $79.99
Print photos directly from your iPhone or Android with this portable printer. Instant 2×3 prints and can connect to multiple devices. Photo paper comes in packs of 50 and usually runs around $24.99.
Paper Lanterns with Remote Light
Paper Lanterns Store • $68.71 for 10 pack
Some paper lanterns are the perfect decorating idea for those looking for that unique style and stunningly beautiful ambiance. These decorative round paper lanterns are a great, budget-friendly DIY choice that can be hung anywhere with the included remote-controlled LED lantern lights for your wedding.
Selfie Stick with Tripod and Remote
USTINE • $9.99
This is the ultimate DIY tool for your photo booth station. Let the guests have fun with a selfie stick or set it up on a stand for a mini tripod. Your guests can be in charge!
Wedding Neon Sign
OrantNeon • $121.60
This customized neon sign will illuminate any space with its warm, inviting glow, revitalizing the mood, elevating and energizing the vibe! Makes a great backdrop and fun keepsake!
Polaroid Prop Frame
Magnoliapapersandco • $69.99
Get ready to make some memories and add some fun to your special event! This frame is printed on sturdy corrugated plastic and is perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Have your guests hold the frame themselves or use a stand!
Light Up Marquee Letters
Eventory • $159 each
See your name or initials in lights! These beautiful, big wooden letters with lights will decorate your wedding and can be used as a backdrop for your photo booth.
Custom Plywood Wedding Sign
ThunderBayCo • $68.40+
This custom wedding sign can be used throughout your wedding process. You can order now and use it for parties and showers and bring it to the wedding for photobooth decor. Available unfinished as shown or in colors and additional sizes!
Assembled Photo Booth Props
CaringConcepts • $21.99
Fully assembled 40 piece photo booth prop set. This set saves you time as it’s already completed ready to place in your photo booth and let your guests take control!
Digital Download Wedding Signs
OldMarket • $3.47
Make your wedding one to remember with these fun photo booth prop signs and decorations. All you do is print them out on cardstock, cut them out, tape or glue long sticks to them and you are ready to go!
Word Cut Out Props
OakKnollCreations • $65
These 7 beautiful wedding words are sure to help your guests have a blast while they’re in the photo booth! The modern white cutouts are perfect for you to create your own props to match the wedding decor.
Disguise Glasses
Ocean Line • $15.98
This set includes 6 pairs of novelty disguise glasses. Your guests can take on their own persona in the photo booth with silly noses, eyebrows, and sideburns!
6-Pack Feather Boa Set
Coceca Store • $18.99
This package includes 6pcs colorful party feather boas in red, hot pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Pair these with a few silly hats, sunglasses, and other props and you may have a hard time figuring out who your guests are!
Novelty Hat Set
TD.IVES Store • $36.95
A set of assorted hats may not fit your wedding theme exactly but it will help get your guests in a silly mood for fun candid photos. This set includes an assortment of 6 hats all fitted for adults sure to bring the laughs!
All-In-One PhotoBooth Solutions
Check out these all-in-one wedding photobooth solutions! Just rent, set up, party, and return!
Booth By Mail
Booth By Mail • $249
For an all-in-one solution, Booth By Mail is a mail-order photo booth rental available nationwide and 24/7. Every rental includes a sequin backdrop with a stand, props, camera, and (for print orders) touchscreen printing of photo strips. And you get a digital album at the end! Shipping is free.
Rent a Photo Booth
Pixilated • $299
This DIY photo booth is self-service and sets up in just a few minutes right out of the box. No need for long, messy cords bc this photo booth is wireless and runs up to 8 hours on rechargeable batteries. You can add on accessories and backdrops as well for an additional cost.
Rent A Photo Booth
Rent My Wedding • $299
The photo booth kit comes with everything you need. Your kit includes the Photo Booth, 15 props, unlimited digital storage, live sharing on email/text/social, online gallery with all photos, 5-day rental, and free shipping.
DIY Photo Booth
Ship Our Wedding • $295
This all-in-one rental is so easy. It includes unlimited digital pictures, a budget-friendly setup, 15 fun props and you can create pics, gifs, and boomerangs!
This article originally appeared on Thebudgetsavvybride.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
More from MediaFeed
30 etiquette rules that nobody should ever break again
Social etiquette is one of those things that people tend to roll their eyes at these days. Nobody wants to be prim and proper anymore but, unfortunately, as we’ve let go of the etiquette rules that had run their course, we’ve also stopped following the rules that made the world a little bit easier to live in. From things like putting our phones down during dinner to courteous driving, sometimes it feels like politesse is dead.
But the truth is that manners and etiquette don’t have to die a lonely, neglected death. In fact, you can start to slowly make things a little easier on yourself, your loved ones and the rest of your fellow humans by incorporating some more courtesy, respect and etiquette into your life. Before you know it, you’ll see others catching onto your etiquette and the rest will be history.
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Adobe
Social etiquette is one of those things that people tend to roll their eyes at these days. Nobody wants to be prim and proper anymore but, unfortunately, as we’ve let go of the etiquette rules that had run their course, we’ve also stopped following the rules that made the world a little bit easier to live in. From things like putting our phones down during dinner to courteous driving, sometimes it feels like politesse is dead.
But the truth is that manners and etiquette don’t have to die a lonely, neglected death. In fact, you can start to slowly make things a little easier on yourself, your loved ones and the rest of your fellow humans by incorporating some more courtesy, respect and etiquette into your life. Before you know it, you’ll see others catching onto your etiquette and the rest will be history.
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Adobe
How many times have you been at dinner with someone and, in the middle of the conversation, they took out their phone? It’s probably happened more times than you care to admit and you’ve probably even done this yourself. However, a small but important part of etiquette is to keep the phone out of sight all night. Enjoy dinner with your loved ones (or even by yourself) sans distractions, and it will make life a little happier.
Getty images
How many times have you been at dinner with someone and, in the middle of the conversation, they took out their phone? It’s probably happened more times than you care to admit and you’ve probably even done this yourself. However, a small but important part of etiquette is to keep the phone out of sight all night. Enjoy dinner with your loved ones (or even by yourself) sans distractions, and it will make life a little happier.
Getty images
Someone cuts you off on the road, a waiter takes forever to refill your glass of water and the cashier seems distracted and taking forever to ring you through. Yes, all of these things can add up to real annoyances during your day but you’ll be doing yourself (and others) a favor if you just give people a break. You never know what someone else is dealing with on a particular day, but if you approach them with kindness and compassion, that’s much better.
Getty images
Someone cuts you off on the road, a waiter takes forever to refill your glass of water and the cashier seems distracted and taking forever to ring you through. Yes, all of these things can add up to real annoyances during your day but you’ll be doing yourself (and others) a favor if you just give people a break. You never know what someone else is dealing with on a particular day, but if you approach them with kindness and compassion, that’s much better.
Getty images
Nobody says “please” and “thank you” anymore, but you can bring it back. It’s one of those small little etiquette lessons that can pay off big in the long run. Even if you don’t do it right now, start putting more of this language into your vocabulary and you’ll soon find people are saying it back.
juanrvelasco/Adobe
Nobody says “please” and “thank you” anymore, but you can bring it back. It’s one of those small little etiquette lessons that can pay off big in the long run. Even if you don’t do it right now, start putting more of this language into your vocabulary and you’ll soon find people are saying it back.
juanrvelasco/Adobe
Every invitation you’ve ever gotten probably comes with an RSVP but many people these days are foregoing actually responding and just showing up. Here’s the problem: That creates a lot of stress for the host when they don’t know if 2 or 20 people are showing up. So do everyone a favor and always, always make sure you check off the “yes” or “no” box… and respond in a timely manner.
kichigin19/Adobe
Every invitation you’ve ever gotten probably comes with an RSVP but many people these days are foregoing actually responding and just showing up. Here’s the problem: That creates a lot of stress for the host when they don’t know if 2 or 20 people are showing up. So do everyone a favor and always, always make sure you check off the “yes” or “no” box… and respond in a timely manner.
kichigin19/Adobe
Courtesy tends to stay at home when people bring their stinky food and suspicious leftovers to work. The truth is that having stinky foods at the office creates a disturbance for all and we’d like you to quit now. It’s totally fine to eat what you want to eat but just remember to be courteous and not have your worst smelling foods out all the time.
tuk69tuk/Adobe
Courtesy tends to stay at home when people bring their stinky food and suspicious leftovers to work. The truth is that having stinky foods at the office creates a disturbance for all and we’d like you to quit now. It’s totally fine to eat what you want to eat but just remember to be courteous and not have your worst smelling foods out all the time.
tuk69tuk/Adobe
Sending an email back to that coworker who is driving you crazy at the moment might only take a moment but it’ll end up costing you much longer in the long run. Instead, it’s a much smarter and more etiquette-friendly strategy if you pause, breathe and wait until you’ve calmed down a bit before answering an email, text or phone call that has you on edge.
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Getty images
Sending an email back to that coworker who is driving you crazy at the moment might only take a moment but it’ll end up costing you much longer in the long run. Instead, it’s a much smarter and more etiquette-friendly strategy if you pause, breathe and wait until you’ve calmed down a bit before answering an email, text or phone call that has you on edge.
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Getty images
Nobody brings food over anymore when someone you know is grieving or when there’s a new neighbor on the block. It’s one of those sad etiquette memories that would make the world a brighter place if we all started doing it again. Next time you know someone who could use a welcome hand or a little cheering up, why not bring food over as a lovely gesture?
svetazi/Adobe
Nobody brings food over anymore when someone you know is grieving or when there’s a new neighbor on the block. It’s one of those sad etiquette memories that would make the world a brighter place if we all started doing it again. Next time you know someone who could use a welcome hand or a little cheering up, why not bring food over as a lovely gesture?
svetazi/Adobe
We have our phones on our hips pretty much 24/7, which is why most people have long forgotten the etiquette lesson about not taking phone calls in the middle of a crowded place. You could be in line or something or in the middle of a restaurant and, all of a sudden, you’re involved in someone else’s phone conversation. Instead, do us all a favor and step outside when you get a phone call. It will make you feel better because nobody will be listening nearby.
rabbit75_fot/Adobe
We have our phones on our hips pretty much 24/7, which is why most people have long forgotten the etiquette lesson about not taking phone calls in the middle of a crowded place. You could be in line or something or in the middle of a restaurant and, all of a sudden, you’re involved in someone else’s phone conversation. Instead, do us all a favor and step outside when you get a phone call. It will make you feel better because nobody will be listening nearby.
rabbit75_fot/Adobe
As we’ve all been driving more and more, people have started to forget the basic courtesies (and laws) of the road. One of the biggest culprits here is using your turning signal. It’s not unusual to be driving and all of a sudden have to slam on your break because the person in front of you forgot to signal and all of a sudden they’ve slowed down to turn. Don’t be that guy. Use your turn signal!
Getty images
As we’ve all been driving more and more, people have started to forget the basic courtesies (and laws) of the road. One of the biggest culprits here is using your turning signal. It’s not unusual to be driving and all of a sudden have to slam on your break because the person in front of you forgot to signal and all of a sudden they’ve slowed down to turn. Don’t be that guy. Use your turn signal!
Getty images
These days, our overworking culture has most people showing up to work even when they’re rocking a fever or coughing up a lung. Basic etiquette doesn’t even enter into the equation but the truth of the matter is that the best thing you can do for yourself (and for others) is to stay home when you’re sick. This badly needs to come back into popularity because getting others at your office sick does no one any favors.
Getty images
These days, our overworking culture has most people showing up to work even when they’re rocking a fever or coughing up a lung. Basic etiquette doesn’t even enter into the equation but the truth of the matter is that the best thing you can do for yourself (and for others) is to stay home when you’re sick. This badly needs to come back into popularity because getting others at your office sick does no one any favors.
Getty images
Just as it’s really easy for a lot of people to pull out their phones during dinner, it’s really easy to do the same pretty much anytime you’re actually engaged in a conversation. It’s fact, you could say it has become an epidemic of rudeness where nobody ever looks at each other anymore. Well, you can stop that easily by making sure that you are looking at whoever you are talking to directly in their eyes whenever you are one-on-one with a co-worker, friend or family member.
Getty images
Just as it’s really easy for a lot of people to pull out their phones during dinner, it’s really easy to do the same pretty much anytime you’re actually engaged in a conversation. It’s fact, you could say it has become an epidemic of rudeness where nobody ever looks at each other anymore. Well, you can stop that easily by making sure that you are looking at whoever you are talking to directly in their eyes whenever you are one-on-one with a co-worker, friend or family member.
Getty images
Here’s the basic etiquette rule of elevators and public transportation: Step aside and let the people getting off to do that before you try to get on. Unfortunately, many of us ignore this rule in our rush to just get on that bus or elevator as if the thing could actually leave without us on there. It won’t. Stop worrying and start stepping aside to let people through without being pushy.
Vitalii/Adobe
Here’s the basic etiquette rule of elevators and public transportation: Step aside and let the people getting off to do that before you try to get on. Unfortunately, many of us ignore this rule in our rush to just get on that bus or elevator as if the thing could actually leave without us on there. It won’t. Stop worrying and start stepping aside to let people through without being pushy.
Vitalii/Adobe
Somewhere along the way, we forgot to hold the door open for others. When you are entering a new establishment, it doesn’t take that much extra work to hold the door for the person behind you. It’s a small courtesy but one that can definitely pay off in the long run as they get inspired to hold the door for the person behind them and on and on.
Sergey Kohl/Adobe
Somewhere along the way, we forgot to hold the door open for others. When you are entering a new establishment, it doesn’t take that much extra work to hold the door for the person behind you. It’s a small courtesy but one that can definitely pay off in the long run as they get inspired to hold the door for the person behind them and on and on.
Sergey Kohl/Adobe
A huge mistake that some people make in terms of etiquette is to ask a woman who has just gotten married about her baby plans. Even worse, if she’s not drinking or if she puts on a bit of weight or if she’s just crossing your path, the person asks again. Well, don’t. It’s simply not polite to assume that a person is planning on having children or, much worse, that she’s actually pregnant. If she wants to share that information with you, she will. Otherwise, just stay out of it.
Getty images
A huge mistake that some people make in terms of etiquette is to ask a woman who has just gotten married about her baby plans. Even worse, if she’s not drinking or if she puts on a bit of weight or if she’s just crossing your path, the person asks again. Well, don’t. It’s simply not polite to assume that a person is planning on having children or, much worse, that she’s actually pregnant. If she wants to share that information with you, she will. Otherwise, just stay out of it.
Getty images
Sometimes, going to the grocery can be a hassle for those of us who are on the shorter side. It’s a pain to reach for higher shelves and it can be an even bigger pain to see those struggling get no help from anyone surround them. Thankfully, you can change all of that. A basic etiquette rule is about lending a small lending hand whenever you see someone having a bit of a hard time. Pay it forward and you’ll feel pretty good about yourself.
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
everettovrk/Adobe
Sometimes, going to the grocery can be a hassle for those of us who are on the shorter side. It’s a pain to reach for higher shelves and it can be an even bigger pain to see those struggling get no help from anyone surround them. Thankfully, you can change all of that. A basic etiquette rule is about lending a small lending hand whenever you see someone having a bit of a hard time. Pay it forward and you’ll feel pretty good about yourself.
SPONSORED: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor
1. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes.
2. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
everettovrk/Adobe
Other than weddings, nobody seems to send handwritten notes anymore. However, it was once a standard etiquette rule to send handwritten notes to your friends and relatives. This was especially true for invitations and thank you cards. The good thing is that you can easily bring this back by starting a tradition yourself where you send handwritten notes to your loved ones no matter what the occasion.
Edalin/Adobe
Other than weddings, nobody seems to send handwritten notes anymore. However, it was once a standard etiquette rule to send handwritten notes to your friends and relatives. This was especially true for invitations and thank you cards. The good thing is that you can easily bring this back by starting a tradition yourself where you send handwritten notes to your loved ones no matter what the occasion.
Edalin/Adobe
Whenever you step foot into the gym, you probably see at least one person who very obviously uses an exercise machine and then walks away the minute they’re done. That’s right, without wiping down the machine. It’s a major etiquette no-no but one that needs to be brought back a.s.a.p. because nobody wants someone else’s germs on them. Let’s do it.
everettovrk/Adobe
Whenever you step foot into the gym, you probably see at least one person who very obviously uses an exercise machine and then walks away the minute they’re done. That’s right, without wiping down the machine. It’s a major etiquette no-no but one that needs to be brought back a.s.a.p. because nobody wants someone else’s germs on them. Let’s do it.
everettovrk/Adobe
Just as a lot of people aren’t wiping down their machines at the gym, they’re also often leaving bathrooms without washing their hands. The problem with this is that you are taking the germs from the bathroom back out into the world and possibly getting yourself or others around you sick, too. Instead, never ever leave the bathroom before you thoroughly wash those hands and rid them of germs.
Getty images
Just as a lot of people aren’t wiping down their machines at the gym, they’re also often leaving bathrooms without washing their hands. The problem with this is that you are taking the germs from the bathroom back out into the world and possibly getting yourself or others around you sick, too. Instead, never ever leave the bathroom before you thoroughly wash those hands and rid them of germs.
Getty images
Nobody wants to be barged in on and yet everyone forgets to knock these days. Whether you are at home walking in on your partner’s office or at the office needing a minute with your boss, remember to knock. It’s a small etiquette rule that just reminds you and the people around you that there’s respect here.
YURII MASLAK/Adobe
Nobody wants to be barged in on and yet everyone forgets to knock these days. Whether you are at home walking in on your partner’s office or at the office needing a minute with your boss, remember to knock. It’s a small etiquette rule that just reminds you and the people around you that there’s respect here.
YURII MASLAK/Adobe
Lateness has somehow become an epidemic in our culture and it’s not getting any better these days. Etiquette is all about respecting other people, though, and that includes respecting their time. One of the things that you are saying to someone when you are late is that you do not respect their time, only your own, so if you continue this, it can ruin relationships. Instead, stop being late and you can bring a little more courtesy back into your life.
dambuster/Adobe
Lateness has somehow become an epidemic in our culture and it’s not getting any better these days. Etiquette is all about respecting other people, though, and that includes respecting their time. One of the things that you are saying to someone when you are late is that you do not respect their time, only your own, so if you continue this, it can ruin relationships. Instead, stop being late and you can bring a little more courtesy back into your life.
dambuster/Adobe
Grief is a difficult, complicated emotion. If you’ve never experienced it, and even sometimes if you have, you may not know how to deal with someone in your life who is grieving. Yes, you can bring over food but even something as small as saying “I’m sorry” can be a comfort. Don’t be afraid to reach out and instead go ahead and call your friend that’s going through a hard time and just let them know you love them.
Getty images
Grief is a difficult, complicated emotion. If you’ve never experienced it, and even sometimes if you have, you may not know how to deal with someone in your life who is grieving. Yes, you can bring over food but even something as small as saying “I’m sorry” can be a comfort. Don’t be afraid to reach out and instead go ahead and call your friend that’s going through a hard time and just let them know you love them.
Getty images
Checking your phone at dinner is nowhere near as bad as the worst cell phone crime of all: Checking your phone at the movies. Back before the cell phone days, this was never an etiquette problem. But these days, it’s almost impossible to go to the movies without at least one jerk looking at their phone mid-movie. This needs to stop immediately because checking your phone at the movies lights up brightly, no matter how well you think you are hiding that thing inside of your jacket. Just stop it, period.
Getty images
Checking your phone at dinner is nowhere near as bad as the worst cell phone crime of all: Checking your phone at the movies. Back before the cell phone days, this was never an etiquette problem. But these days, it’s almost impossible to go to the movies without at least one jerk looking at their phone mid-movie. This needs to stop immediately because checking your phone at the movies lights up brightly, no matter how well you think you are hiding that thing inside of your jacket. Just stop it, period.
Getty images
When you are grocery shopping, there are a few things that you should keep in mind in order to keep up with etiquette rules that we have long forgotten but should definitely bring back. First of all, you should never, ever leave your shopping cart stopped in the middle of the aisle so that others cannot get through. Secondly, make it easy by walking on the right side of the aisle so that others can walk by easier. And last but not least, take those extra two minutes to take your cart back into its cart area. Don’t just leave it loosey-goosey in the parking lot.
Adobe
When you are grocery shopping, there are a few things that you should keep in mind in order to keep up with etiquette rules that we have long forgotten but should definitely bring back. First of all, you should never, ever leave your shopping cart stopped in the middle of the aisle so that others cannot get through. Secondly, make it easy by walking on the right side of the aisle so that others can walk by easier. And last but not least, take those extra two minutes to take your cart back into its cart area. Don’t just leave it loosey-goosey in the parking lot.
Adobe
When you get invited to a party, it’s easy to get really excited and want to bring a friend. And that’s okay…. just as long as you do not forget to contact the host about bringing a plus one. These days, that old etiquette rule seems to have fallen by the wayside as people forget to R.S.V.P. +1 and instead just bring their friend or new partner along. But it’s always a much better idea to let the host know so that they can plan accordingly instead of freak out because 20 people brought a surprise plus one.
Getty images
When you get invited to a party, it’s easy to get really excited and want to bring a friend. And that’s okay…. just as long as you do not forget to contact the host about bringing a plus one. These days, that old etiquette rule seems to have fallen by the wayside as people forget to R.S.V.P. +1 and instead just bring their friend or new partner along. But it’s always a much better idea to let the host know so that they can plan accordingly instead of freak out because 20 people brought a surprise plus one.
Getty images
In our rush to eat and get back to whatever activity we were doing before, we often forget that a basic etiquette rule is to wait to eat until everyone at the table has been served. This is an easy one to forget but also an easy one to correct. It lets your friends and loved ones know that you respect them just a little bit more if you wait a few minutes until everyone at the table has food in front of them. It won’t really cost you anything extra, so go ahead and take the more courteous route.
everettovrk/Adobe
In our rush to eat and get back to whatever activity we were doing before, we often forget that a basic etiquette rule is to wait to eat until everyone at the table has been served. This is an easy one to forget but also an easy one to correct. It lets your friends and loved ones know that you respect them just a little bit more if you wait a few minutes until everyone at the table has food in front of them. It won’t really cost you anything extra, so go ahead and take the more courteous route.
everettovrk/Adobe
Many cities and states now have laws about this but it shouldn’t take a law to remind you to always clean up after your dog. Dogs are pretty awesome and many people love them, but nobody loves it when you don’t clean up after your dog and they, ahem, step in it. Literally. So go ahead and curb your pup, always, because you’ll be doing society a nice little favor.
LiliGraphie/Adobe
Many cities and states now have laws about this but it shouldn’t take a law to remind you to always clean up after your dog. Dogs are pretty awesome and many people love them, but nobody loves it when you don’t clean up after your dog and they, ahem, step in it. Literally. So go ahead and curb your pup, always, because you’ll be doing society a nice little favor.
LiliGraphie/Adobe
Wearing headphones in public is totally okay but it can get a bit tricky when you are wearing headphones and all of a sudden hear a lot of noise coming from someone else’s headphones. Talk about awkward! One basic rule of etiquette is to make sure that your volume is turned down enough so that you are not disturbing anyone around you. After all, you’re signifying that you don’t want to be disturbed by wearing headphones and those near you should get the same courtesy.
Getty images
Wearing headphones in public is totally okay but it can get a bit tricky when you are wearing headphones and all of a sudden hear a lot of noise coming from someone else’s headphones. Talk about awkward! One basic rule of etiquette is to make sure that your volume is turned down enough so that you are not disturbing anyone around you. After all, you’re signifying that you don’t want to be disturbed by wearing headphones and those near you should get the same courtesy.
Getty images
Littering is nobody’s friend but yet people still do it. This can be just as true outside as it is when you are in somebody’s home. Don’t get yourself fall into this big etiquette no-no and instead make sure that you are always cleaning up after yourself. Whether you are putting the dishes in the dishwasher after having dinner at a friend’s place or making sure that you find a recycling bin for that soda you just finished drinking, it’s the least you can do since you created the mess in the first place.
Adobe
Littering is nobody’s friend but yet people still do it. This can be just as true outside as it is when you are in somebody’s home. Don’t get yourself fall into this big etiquette no-no and instead make sure that you are always cleaning up after yourself. Whether you are putting the dishes in the dishwasher after having dinner at a friend’s place or making sure that you find a recycling bin for that soda you just finished drinking, it’s the least you can do since you created the mess in the first place.
Adobe
In this age of social media, this etiquette rule is actually a new but standard one that everyone should know. If you are a big fan of Facebook and never miss an Instagram picture, that’s really cool. But you know what’s not cool? Putting up a photo of your cousin’s baby when your cousin isn’t on social media and really doesn’t want her kids there either. So a good rule of thumb is to ask anyone before posting about them on social media. It’s a small courtesy but you will appreciate it when you can say “yes” or “no” to someone else’s post, too.
Adobe
In this age of social media, this etiquette rule is actually a new but standard one that everyone should know. If you are a big fan of Facebook and never miss an Instagram picture, that’s really cool. But you know what’s not cool? Putting up a photo of your cousin’s baby when your cousin isn’t on social media and really doesn’t want her kids there either. So a good rule of thumb is to ask anyone before posting about them on social media. It’s a small courtesy but you will appreciate it when you can say “yes” or “no” to someone else’s post, too.
Adobe
If you’re about to cough or sneeze, do you take care of it in your elbow? Probably not. This might be the last etiquette rule on this list but it is definitely not the least important. It’s one of those things that can really help you with keeping your germs away from other people. If you sneeze into your hands, then you are probably spreading it around. Instead, sneeze into your elbow and then find a tissue as soon as you can. You’ll appreciate it once you start seeing others do the same.
This article originally appeared on TheDelite.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
Read more:
Michelin-starred restaurants that are shockingly affordable
Chain restaurants that you used to love that you probably can’t find now
Getty images
If you’re about to cough or sneeze, do you take care of it in your elbow? Probably not. This might be the last etiquette rule on this list but it is definitely not the least important. It’s one of those things that can really help you with keeping your germs away from other people. If you sneeze into your hands, then you are probably spreading it around. Instead, sneeze into your elbow and then find a tissue as soon as you can. You’ll appreciate it once you start seeing others do the same.
This article originally appeared on TheDelite.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
Read more:
Michelin-starred restaurants that are shockingly affordable
Chain restaurants that you used to love that you probably can’t find now
Getty images
DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com
Featured Image Credit: Deposit Photos.
