Royal Protocol Guide

Quick Reference

Know the rules before you go.

Royal events follow traditions that go back centuries. This guide gives you the key expectations for greetings, dress, seating, and behavior at the most common occasions. Pick an event below to get started.

Choose an event type

Royal Wedding Protocol

What to expect as a guest at a royal wedding ceremony and reception.

Meeting the Royal Family

  • Address the King or Queen as Your Majesty the first time, then Sir or Ma'am (rhymes with "ham").
  • For other senior royals, start with Your Royal Highness, then Sir or Ma'am.
  • A small bow or curtsy is customary but not required. Follow the lead of others if you are unsure.
  • Wait for the royal person to extend their hand before shaking. A light handshake is best.
  • Keep conversation brief and positive. Avoid personal questions or controversial topics.

Dress Code for Guests

  • Women: Formal day dress or skirt suit. A hat or fascinator is expected. Avoid white, cream, or ivory.
  • Men: Morning suit (grey or black tailcoat with waistcoat and top hat) is traditional. A dark lounge suit may be acceptable if stated on the invitation.
  • Avoid overly flashy jewelry, large logos, or anything that draws attention away from the couple.
  • Closed-toe shoes are preferred. Avoid trainers, flip-flops, or overly casual footwear.
  • Military personnel may wear full dress uniform if appropriate to their rank and role.

Seating Expectations

  • Guests are seated by rank and relationship to the royal family. Front rows are reserved for close family and heads of state.
  • Ushers will guide you to your seat. Do not move place cards or choose your own seat.
  • At the reception, seating is often arranged by the couple or their planners. Check your table assignment on arrival.
  • Remain seated during formal toasts and speeches unless instructed otherwise.

Public Behavior

  • Turn your phone to silent before entering the ceremony venue.
  • Photography is usually not allowed inside the church or ceremony space. Wait until you are outside or at the reception.
  • Do not approach the royal family for selfies or autographs unless they initiate.
  • Stand when the royal family enters or leaves the room, and during the national anthem.
  • Be mindful of your alcohol consumption. A royal wedding is a formal occasion.

How to use this guide

Before the event

Read through the full protocol card for your event type at least a week before. Check your invitation for any specific instructions that differ from the general guidance here. If you are unsure about the dress code, it is always safer to dress slightly more formally than less. Lay out your outfit a few days early and make sure everything fits and is clean.

If you are traveling to the event, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the stated start time. Security checks at royal venues can take longer than expected. Bring a printed copy of your invitation and a valid photo ID.

During the event

Follow the lead of the ushers and staff. They know the specific plan for the day and will guide you through each stage. If you are unsure whether to stand, sit, or move, look at the people around you and follow their example. When in doubt, a quiet, respectful demeanor is always the right choice.

At a wedding, the ceremony itself is usually quiet and formal. The reception afterward is more relaxed, but still follows certain conventions. At a state funeral or memorial, expect a more solemn tone throughout. Keep your voice low and your movements deliberate.

After the event

If you met a member of the royal family, it is not expected that you will follow up with a letter or gift. A simple thank-you to the event organizers is fine. If you took photos, be mindful about what you share on social media. Some events have restrictions on public posting.

Use the print button on this page to save a clean reference sheet for future events. Your last selection is saved in your browser so you can return to it easily next time.

A day at a royal wedding: walkthrough

10:00 AM

Arrival

You arrive at the venue and join the queue. Security checks your invitation and ID. An usher directs you to the entrance. You take your assigned seat inside the church. The service begins at 11:00.

11:00 AM

The ceremony

The bride arrives. Everyone stands. The service follows the traditional Church of England format. You sit, stand, and kneel with the rest of the congregation. Your phone stays in your pocket, silenced.

12:30 PM

The carriage procession

After the ceremony, the couple leaves in a carriage. Guests line the route or move to the reception venue. This is a good time to take photos if you are outside.

1:30 PM

The reception

You find your table using the seating plan. Lunch is served. Speeches and toasts follow. You stand for the toasts and raise your glass. The atmosphere is warm but still formal.

4:00 PM

Departure

The formal program winds down. You thank the hosts if you have the chance, then leave at a natural break. Avoid leaving during a speech or toast.

Questions people ask

Do I have to bow or curtsy?

It is customary but not legally required. A small bow from the neck for men and a small curtsy for women is the usual practice. If you are unsure, follow the lead of others around you.

Can I take photos inside the church?

Usually not. Photography is typically restricted inside the ceremony venue. Wait until you are outside or at the reception. Look for signs or ask an usher if you are unsure.

What if I accidentally use the wrong form of address?

Do not panic. Most royals are used to small mistakes from guests. A polite "I apologize" and a correction is enough. The key is to be respectful and genuine.

Is it okay to bring a gift to a royal wedding?

Gifts are not expected from general guests. If you wish to give something, a charitable donation in the couple's name is often preferred. Check the couple's website for any stated preferences.

What should I do if I feel unwell during the event?

Quietly signal an usher or member of staff. They are trained to help and will assist you without drawing attention. Do not try to push through if you feel faint or unwell.