When it comes to weddings, we know that they come with a lot of expectations, cultural traditions, and family traditions, but ultimately you and your fiancé are the ones who get to decide what you’re going to embrace, and what to do without! Let’s explore some of the conventional wedding day traditions, as well as the modern interpretations of them.

Because, when it comes down to it, it’s of the utmost importance to ensure your big day is truly reflective of who you and your partner are and the values you share as a couple. We don’t believe you should do things just because they’ve been done in the past, so it’s a good idea to explore your ideas and expectations of wedding traditions as a couple, to see how you both feel, then only do the traditions that are a 100% yes for both of you!

Nice Day For A White Wedding?!

Traditional white wedding dresses can be downright gorgeous, but they don’t have to be everyone’s cup of tea! So, if you want to wear an emerald lace gown, a glittery pink pantsuit, or a blue velvet tuxedo, who says that you can’t?! And, why would you listen to them anyway? We personally feel that you should put on whatever will make you feel like the star of the show (since you are, after all)  and reflect the magnificence that is the two of you!

Do You WANT To Have A Bridal Party?

Apparently, if we go way, way back, Roman law used to state that ten witnesses needed to be present at a wedding. So, that’s where the tradition of having a bridal party is said to have originated, but if it’s not your thing, that’s okay too! Ancient Rome shouldn’t be calling the shots on your big day! So, if you have concerns about hurting feelings by choosing one friend over another, or you just really don’t want to have a bridal party, then feel free to skip it! The choice is ultimately yours. And, if you’ve always wanted a bridal party  – maybe even a huge one – they don’t necessarily have to wear matching outfits, if you don’t want them too! Sometimes it might not feel like it, but you and your sweetheart and free to do whatever works best for you!

Subtle?! Nah! How About Making A Statement!

So many brides are advised to avoid large statement jewelry and bright & bold red lips, all under the guise of ‘less is more’, but maybe lean towards being more of a maximalist than a minimalist. If that describes you, embrace it, chances are that the people coming to your wedding will already understand that about you! So, wear that bold necklace if it sparks joy, rock those chandelier earrings if they make you feel yourself, and don that five alarm red for your lips and nails if that’s your vibe! The most important thing about your wardrobe for the day (and every day)  is that it truly feels like you! So, if you like Subtle and subdued, go for it! But, if you prefer bold, bright and over the top, embrace it! 

All The Single Ladies?! Or Fellas?

If the thought of getting your single friends to line up to catch the bouquet or garter makes you uncomfortable, or feel outdated to you feel free to tell your DJ to skip it! Another choice is to offer up your wedding bouquet (or one custom made for this purpose) to the couple at your wedding who has been married the longest. Or you could do something altogether different, and give the bouquet to your parents or new in-laws, taking a moment to recognize all they’ve done to get the two of you to this special day. And, if you think that bouquet and garter tosses are awesome, and one of the highlights of a wedding reception then embrace it fully, or make it an even more elaborate event with a choreographed dance or skit! The choice is yours!

Do You Need 12 Bone China Plate Settings?

Many modern couples no longer have the desire to ask for “traditional” gifts like casserole dishes, towels and fine china. After all, many couples live together long before the wedding, and if they don’t already live together, they’ll often end up having two of everything when they merge their households!  That makes for a whole lot of ‘stuff’! So, if you don’t feel like you need more ‘stuff’ alternative gifts could include charitable registries where you denote a specific cause (or causes) you support and make a large donation after your wedding, or maybe requesting the gift of experiences and asking for date night ideas sounds good to you, or maybe what would help most is a beautiful card with cash that can be used towards your wedding, or to start your new life together. But, really, if you have your heart set on a 12 place setting of gorgeous bone china, then do it! After all, it’s your big day!