Un-best Guests

With many families and friends stretched far and wide these days, it's sometimes a bit stressful when some folks get together. If you haven't seen or talked to them for a long time, you might get a little shell-shocked when they aren't the way you expect or remember them. Aunt Fanny is divorced and has become a lush enjoying more than her fair share at your open bar. Uncle Henry is harassing the caterers by commenting on "how lovely they look" in not-so-flattering language. Your new mother-in-law is trying to direct your ceremony. Your sister is having her own "pity party" because her boyfriend left her... 4 months ago. The ringbearer is wreaking havoc on your flower bouquets. A friend accidentally spills make-up on your wedding dress as she tries to give you a hug. What do you do when chaos ensues??
First, try to avoid chaos whenever possible. The old saying goes "A pound of prevention is worth an ounce of cure." Give your bartender a heads up about Aunt Fanny's drinking ability, and strongly suggest he water down the drinks for her or offer non-alcoholic choices later. You can also let Aunt Fanny bring a friend who won't mind driving her home later when she's "too pooped from the party". Give the waitstaff a heads up about Uncle Henry, then keep a steady flow of entertaining relatives to be at his table. Let mom-in-law know you'd love to have her be part of the ceremony but that you don't want to stress her out with all the details & you'd rather let her relax & enjoy the day. Encourage your sister to bring a friend, even a good girl friend to have fun with her at your party. Ask the parents (or grandparents, siblings) of the ringbearer to keep a leash on him. Tell them to bring a few of his favorite toys or provide some new ones yourself. Coloring books can go a long way! Keep make-up closed and set well away from the table/counter edges.
What if you can't prevent? Don't frustrate - TOLERATE! Choose to stay away from annoying family members and if someone tries to give you woe about another guest not being their best.. simply ask them to take it up with your parents or someone you've chosen to "be in charge" of potential problems. This is where your Master & Mistress/Matron of Ceremonies comes in handy! Let little issues roll off your back. You're there to celebrate YOUR DAY, not allow someone to ruin it.
Some people will always make themselves into a shocking spectacle or annoying guest. Take a few deep breaths, put on a big smile and go in the other direction. It's alot easier than you might think and it's much less stressful to allow someone else to handle those problems for you.
P.S. Yes. I have seen many of the above mentioned issues, although not all at the same wedding!