Wedding Traditions: What to Keep and What to Skip?

When planning your wedding, you might find yourself wondering which traditions to honour and which to leave behind. While some traditions hold deep meaning and are cherished across generations, others may feel outdated or unnecessary for your big day. The beauty of modern weddings is that you have the freedom to tailor the experience to your personalities and values. Here’s a guide to help you decide which traditions to keep, which to skip and how to make your big day ‘yours’.

The White Wedding Dress: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: The white wedding dress became popular after Queen Victoria wore one in 1840, symbolising purity.

Keep It: If you’ve always dreamed of a classic white dress, there’s no reason not to go for it. It remains a timeless choice that photographs beautifully.

Skip It: Some brides are opting for dresses in blush, champagne, or even bolder shades like deep blue or black. It’s a great way to express your individuality and embrace a look that feels true to you.

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: This rhyme dates back to Victorian England and is meant to bring good luck to the bride.

Keep It: Incorporating these elements can be a sentimental way to include family heirlooms and memories into your wedding.

Skip It: If it feels too cliché or you’d rather not worry about fulfilling the rhyme, this is one tradition that can be easily left behind.

The Bouquet Toss: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: The bouquet toss is believed to bring good luck to whoever catches it, indicating they’ll be the next to marry.

Keep It: If you have a playful group of single friends who will enjoy this part of the reception, it’s a fun way to include them.

Skip It: Some brides find it uncomfortable or prefer not to single out their single friends in this way.

The First Dance: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: The first dance is a classic way to celebrate the couple’s first moments as newlyweds.

Keep It: For many, it’s a chance to share a romantic moment, especially if you’ve chosen a meaningful song.

Skip It: If dancing in front of a crowd makes you feel awkward, don’t feel obligated to stick to this tradition.

Cutting the Cake: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: Cutting the cake symbolises the couple’s first task together as newlyweds.

Keep It: It’s a great photo opportunity and a nice moment to pause and share a sweet treat.

Skip It: Not into cake? You can skip this tradition, especially if you’re opting for alternative desserts like donuts, a dessert bar, or an ice cream cart.

Walking Down the Aisle: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: Traditionally, the father of the bride walks the bride down the aisle as a symbol of giving her away.

Keep It: It can be a touching way to honour your father or another special person in your life.

Skip It: Some couples choose to walk down the aisle together, symbolising the journey they’re about to take as equals.

The Garter Toss: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: Similar to the bouquet toss, the garter toss is meant to bring good luck to the bachelor who catches it.

Keep It: If your guests are up for a laugh and you’re comfortable with it, the garter toss can be a playful addition.

Skip It: Many couples find this tradition too awkward or outdated.

Reception Grand Entrance: Keep or Skip?

Tradition: The grand entrance is a moment when the newlyweds make their first appearance at the reception. This involves an announcement by the MC as the couple walks into the venue to a big round of applause.

Keep It: It sets the tone for the celebration and allows all eyes to be on you for a few magical moments.

Skip It: If a traditional grand entrance doesn’t quite align with your vibe, there is no need to keep it!

Remember to stay true to what feels right for you and your partner. Whether you’re wanting to embrace traditions, tweak them to suit your style, or create your own, the day should reflect your story as a couple. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate your love, so feel free to mix old and new elements to craft a wedding that’s uniquely yours.

Happy planning!

Emily xx