Is it Time to Retire Tradition?
When you think about it, weddings are a form of expression—from cake toppers and vows to playlists and attire, couples display their personality for all their loved ones! But some so-called traditions garner more negative attention, and we’re here to talk about which ones people love and which ones they can’t stand.
1. Cake Smashing
It’s cute to dab frosting on your sweetheart’s nose, but smushing an expensive slice of cake in their face is really not cool. Given the cost of weddings nowadays, smashing cake is like flushing hundreds of dollars down the toilet. (We’ve also seen those videos of grooms who take things way too far.)
2. Garter Toss
This one’s been around a long time, but it makes plenty of guests uncomfortable. For those unfamiliar, it’s a far stranger version of the bouquet toss—the groom pops his head under the bride’s dress, removes her garter, and tosses it to a crowd of male guests. The guy who catches it is the guy who gets married next. No thanks.
3. Throwing Rice
There’s nothing wrong with a little send-off, but rice is an outdated tradition. Rice can do anything from attract critters to pose potential hazards for guests. It’s also harmful to local birds and leaves a giant mess behind!
4. Being Given Away
Some brides swear by this tradition, but many others consider it an archaic display of “ownership.” In today’s day and age, women either walk themselves down the aisle or open the door to new traditions, such as a sibling or their mother guiding them.
5. Wedding Gifts
Wedding gifts aren’t a problem—when you’re in attendance. However, some couples expect a lavish present from those who couldn’t make it, and it’s a tradition we’d love to retire. Not everyone can just spring for cookware; they aren’t bad people for not sending a gift.
6. First Dance
Some couples dive head-first into their first dance, working for months to choreograph the perfect routine. Others, on the other hand, consider a first dance embarrassing. Some couples would rather mingle with loved ones than have all eyes on them for several grueling minutes.
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7. Seating Charts
Weddings used to separate guests during the ceremony: the bride’s and groom’s sides. But not everyone has a big family or as many friends to invite. This is a day of union, so bring both sides together and let people sit where they want!
8. Pre-Show Parties
Though it’s hardly strange to have a bachelor or bachelorette party, the buck doesn’t stop there. Tradition also includes stag and doe parties, bridal showers, and kitchen tea parties—all of which cost everyone more time and money. Naturally, couples started to move away from all the added hoopla.
9. Not Asking for Money
Hey, we’d all like more money! Some people still find it gauche when couples ask for money, often seeing it as an impersonal gift. However, there’s nothing better than freedom, and sending a little cash lets couples buy whatever they want.
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10. Obligatory Invites
There’s no reason to invite your parents’ friends (unless you like them). And Great Aunt Helen? That lady you saw once at your fifth birthday party? Yeah, she doesn’t need one either. Weddings are expensive and to invite those people is to basically invite wedding crashers. It’s your day, so don’t let people guilt you into springing for strangers!
That said, there are plenty of traditions couples love—let’s explore some beloved ones.
1. Disposable Cameras
Professional photographers expertly fade into the background, snapping memories couples can enjoy for decades after. However, there’s something truly special about giving guests disposable cameras. Couples often stick one on each table and can relish in what their loved ones thought worthy to capture.
2. Something Old, Something New…
Every bride needs something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue! Not only is this tradition fun, but it’s also a beautiful way to honor family—brides usually inherit heirlooms or cherished items from their loved ones.
3. Wedding Cake Toppers
Who could ignore the adorable wedding cake toppers? Whether you stick with traditional figures or opt for a hilariously unique version, toppers are a small detail with a big personality. Some couples even include their fur babies.
4. Personal Vow Exchange
There’s no better time to tell people how you feel. Personal vows are the ultimate declaration of love, and the ceremony’s biggest highlight (besides the bride, of course). Work in a joke or pour your heart out—today’s the day you shout your love from the rooftops!
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5. Traditional Attire
More and more couples veer away from traditional attire, instead wearing colorful outfits that capture a personal style. There’s nothing wrong with that! But we can’t help falling for clean-cut tuxedos and lily-white gowns either.
6. Black and White Photos
Speaking of black and white, don’t be shy about asking your photographer for the look. It’s an elegant style that captures the day like no other. Even if you only get a handful of black-and-white pictures, it’s more than worth it.
7. Cocktail Hour
Now that the ceremony’s over, it’s time to mingle with a little finger food and the couple’s signature cocktail. This interlude gives everyone a well-deserved break! Guests can come down from the excitement and prepare themselves for a fun night ahead.
8. Veil
Veils were always part of a bride’s ensemble—the accessory is traced back to ancient Rome as a way for women to ward off any evil spirits. While you probably won’t have ghosts in attendance, veils remain a stunning addition to the gown and a treasured tradition.
9. Post-Wedding Brunch
Keep the (lowkey) party going after all is said and done! Invites for the post-wedding brunch are traditionally reserved for immediate family and the wedding party, keeping costs low and the setting intimate. It gives you time to catch up and relax after all the planning.
10. Honeymoon
What’s a wedding without a honeymoon? From road trips to faraway places, that getaway is a couple’s much-deserved reward. Not only did you put your heart and soul into the perfect day, you also took the biggest step of your life. That calls for a little time away!
