What are some good excuses for not attending a wedding?

Oh, I've got plenty! Some great ones include a pre-planned vacation, a work emergency, family obligations, health issues, and financial constraints. Easy breezy!

Is it rude to give an excuse for missing a wedding?

Nah, life happens! It's all about how you say it. Be polite and honest (but not too honest). Most people will understand.

What if I really don’t want to go but don’t have a big reason?

No worries! You can always use a low-key reason like a prior engagement or feeling under the weather. Just keep it simple and respectful.

Should I send a gift if I'm not attending a wedding?

Yes, sending a gift is a nice gesture. It shows you care even if you can't make it. Plus, you get to skip the event but still make them happy!

How do I tell someone I can't attend their wedding?

Just be upfront but kind. A phone call or a heartfelt message works well. Say you're grateful for the invite but unfortunately can't make it due to [insert excuse]. Apologize and wish them the best!

7 Great Excuses for Missing That Wedding or Grad Party This Summer ...

Listen, I like a good graduation party or wedding as much as the next girl, but this summer, I've been invited to more of them than I can possibly handle, and the truth is, sometimes the truth - I just don't want to come! - isn't the best excuse for not attending. If you need to be a little creative when you politely decline, I've got a list of handy excuses you can use.

1 Another Event

This excuse works in the summer especially because there are just so many weddings, showers, grad parties, BBQs... the list goes on and on. Drop the "prior engagement" excuse, and be done with it.

Frequently asked questions

Should I send a gift if I'm not attending a wedding?
What if I really don’t want to go but don’t have a big reason?

2 Heartbreak

If you've recently been through a bad breakup, leverage the misery of that sad event as an excuse not to go to that wedding you're dreading. It could even be the truth.

3 Finances

It's okay to admit that you just can't afford to participate in or attend another wedding or grad party this summer. You know you'll spend at least $50 on a gift - probably way more! - so feel free to use this honest reason as your excuse.

4 Out of Town

If you're traveling this summer, that's an excellent reason not to attend a wedding or party back at home. This one you can't really fib about though - be sure to share vacay photos just in case.

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If you're looking for a great excuse to miss a wedding or graduation party this summer, why not take a trip out of town? Exploring a new place can be an amazing experience and can even help you to relax and unwind. Whether you decide to stay close to home or travel to a far-off destination, taking a break from your normal routine is a great way to enjoy the summer months.

When planning a trip, be sure to consider your budget and the time you have available. Depending on your destination, you may need to book flights and accommodations in advance, so make sure you plan ahead. You may also want to research activities and attractions in the area so you can make the most of your time away.

If you're traveling with family or friends, you may want to plan a road trip or camping trip. This can be a great way to bond with your loved ones and create lasting memories. If you're planning to go solo, you may want to consider a trail ride, a nature walk, or a day of sightseeing.

5 Travel Worries

If it's a destination wedding or party, feel free to share your (real or make-believe) travel concerns. You can also say (true or not) that you don't have time to get or renew your passport.

6 Been There, Done That

If this is the bride or groom's second, third, or - gasp! - fourth marriage, you definitely don't have to attend, nor do you have to be specific about why you're not coming. Politely decline, and if they express dismay, be vague, or get your friend alone and tell her you just can't do another one of her weddings.

7 Work

Not everyone has a surplus of vacation days this time of year, so go ahead and use work as a handy excuse why you just can't make that special event.

Of course these are all tongue-in-cheek excuses - there's nothing wrong with the truth, as long as you're not being brutal and hurting someone else's feelings. What's your best can't-come RSVP excuse?