Weddings are full of traditions and legacies. But those traditions have changed to keep up with the new rules being written by today’s brides and grooms. What used to be a faux pas is now a bold choice and at the very core of these changes are results leading to more personalized and whimsical events. There’s no longer a need to be so rigid about nuptials. Instead, let’s celebrate these modern and updated traditions for the refreshing perspective they bring to the Big Day.
Modern Wedding Traditions
- First Looks – It’s no longer taboo for the bride and groom to see each other before the wedding ceremony. In fact, it’s become quite the norm to sneak away before any wedding guests arrive and see each other as a couple before walking down the aisle. A photographer is usually on hand to capture the “first looks” and the moment is often followed by family and bridal party portraits, freeing up more time for fun and socializing at the wedding reception.
- Man of Honor – Brides are opting for a male BFF to take the place of a Maid of Honor. A Man of Honor can be the bride’s brother, cousin, or friend – anyone who she deems deserves the place of honor by her side. However, they are still expected to provide support and encouragement on her big day.
- New Desserts – Wedding cake is no longer the only choice for dessert. And when it is, rum and vanilla are far from the only flavors. Red velvet, guava, and white chocolate raspberry are but a few options. Cupcake towers, mini dessert shots, or a large candy station have all been decking recent wedding receptions.
- No Seating Arrangements – Wedding receptions are becoming more relaxed affairs with fewer restrictions in terms of seating. Plated dinners are being replaced with cocktail reception style events where guests can eat from various buffet and passed hors d’oeuvre options at their leisure while dancing and socializing.
- Honeymoon Registries – Rather than asking for traditional house wares, couples are now able to ask for cash contributions towards their dream honeymoon vacation with websites like HoneyFund.com and TravelersJoy.com keeping track of all contributions.
- White for Everyone – The bride is not the only one wearing white as bridesmaids are now often in similar tones for a very sophisticated take on the traditional bridal party look. Ivory, pearl, light beige, and blush are all taking center stage along the happy couple.
- Custom Music – Instead of walking down the aisle to a traditional wedding march, brides are putting a twist on their favorite songs and using instrumental versions to walk down the aisle. It’s not unusual to hear a string quartet play Bruno Mars as she meets her other half at the altar.
