Wedding Traditions: Which Ones to Keep and Which to Skip

When it comes to planning your dream wedding, there's a delicate balance between honouring tradition and embracing modernity. While some wedding customs hold sentimental value and timeless charm, others may feel outdated or simply don't resonate with the couple's vision. Here's a guide to help you navigate which wedding traditions to keep and which ones to skip.

Photo: Mandy Wright Photography

To Skip:

Bouquet Toss: Let's face it, the bouquet toss can be awkward for single friends. No one appreciates undue attention being drawn to their relationship status. Instead, consider skipping this tradition to create a more inclusive and comfortable atmosphere for all your guests.

Garter Toss: This tradition can feel very awkward for the bride, groom, and guests. It's an outdated tradition that often leads to uncomfortable moments. Ditching the garter toss can save everyone from unnecessary discomfort.

Wedding Cake Cutting Ceremony: While we love a wedding cake, consider opting for a private cake cutting moment with just you, your partner, and the photographer. Have a small cake for the private cutting and a dessert table for guests to enjoy. And definitely skip the cake smash!

Traditional Head Table: Traditional head tables on a stage feel outdated. Instead, opt for a king table where you can sit and have conversations with your friends or a sweetheart table for an intimate setting with your partner.

Wedding Favors: Wedding favors are an unnecessary cost. Instead of favors, consider having signature cocktails or a photo booth for guests to enjoy and create lasting memories.

Seeing Each Other for the First Time at the Aisle: Consider having a first look to keep the day running smoothly and share a personal moment with your partner. Don't worry; the moment at the aisle will still be just as special.

Matching Bridesmaid Dresses: Instead of having your bridesmaids wear the same dress, choose a colour palette and allow them to pick the dress they feel most comfortable in. It adds variety and allows your bridesmaids to showcase their individual styles.

Spending the Night Before or the Morning of Apart: Spend as much time together on the wedding day as you can. Have breakfast together and then split ways to get ready. It's a meaningful way to start the day together.

Even Wedding Parties: It's okay to have uneven numbers on either side of the wedding party. Focus on including the people who are closest to you rather than worrying about symmetry.

Traditional Ceremony Seating: Consider alternative seating arrangements such as round seating or a serpentine aisle for a unique and intimate ceremony setting.

Only Having Human Guests: Include your furry friends in your wedding celebration! Pets are a cherished part of the family and can add a special touch to your big day.

Boutonnieres: Skip the extra cost of boutonnieres. While they can be a nice touch, they're not essential and often go unnoticed.

To Keep:

Wedding Seating Assignments: Having seating assignments keeps the reception organized and makes it less stressful for guests to find where to sit and who to sit with, especially if they don't know many people.

Father-Daughter and Mother-Son Dance: Even if these dances aren't particularly special for you, they can be meaningful for your parents. Consider combining them to save time and create a heartfelt moment.

First Dance: The first dance is a sweet tradition that allows you to share a special moment with your partner. Embrace it and have fun with it, whether you take dance lessons or keep it simple (Tip: Ask your DJ to fade out the song at a minute or minute and a half or have guests join in on the dancing).

Veils & Embroidery: These are gorgeous bridal elements that add elegance and sophistication to your wedding attire. They are timeless and can complement any bridal look.

Wedding Vows: Keep your wedding vows, even if you choose to say them privately. They are sweet words and promises shared between you and your partner, symbolizing your love and commitment.

Bridal Bouquet: A bridal bouquet is a beautiful accessory for the bride, adding a pop of colour and elegance to your ensemble. It's a timeless tradition that enhances your bridal look.

When planning your wedding, feel empowered to customize traditions to reflect your unique love story and values. Whether you choose to keep, skip, or reinvent certain customs, the most important thing is that your wedding day is a true reflection of you as a couple. Embrace what feels meaningful and let go of what doesn't resonate, creating a celebration that is truly unforgettable.