Wedding Traditions
Weddings are a constantly evolving tradition. These days, a couple is reflected by how they choose to celebrate this beautiful event.
Many couples are going for more of a casual party than a traditional formal event.
It's not unusual for a couple to wed barefoot on the beach
It's not unusual for a couple to wed barefoot on a beach or at their favourite bar.
Many brides choose to keep their maiden name, wear non traditional dresses, and while a father still often walks his daughter down the aisle, there is no longer the idea that he's passing chattel to another man.
We've taken some time to observe some of the changing traditions, take what you like, leave the rest behind!
Wedding vows have changed to echo the affirmation that the bride and groom are their own people promising to love each other
The Vows
You’ll notice that wedding vows have also changed a lot. Vows often now echo the affirmation that the bride and groom are their own people promising to love each other.
Many couples choose to omit vows that have the bride promising to obey their husband. Likewise vows that include a husband protecting his wife are often forgotten.
A lot of couples choose to make their wedding vows personal promises that are meaningful to them as a couple. Rather than traditional recitations with more old fashioned gender roles.
Veils
A veil is traditionally known as a symbol of a husband’s authority over his wife as she pledged modesty and obedience.
These days a veil is more of a nod to tradition and a pretty accessory. Other accessories are also used with many women choosing something a little less traditional.
Flower Crowns, headpieces or fascinators, or a simple side clip have all become popular choices for modern brides
Flower Crowns, headpieces or fascinators, or a simple side clip have all become popular choices for modern brides. Keeping it pretty, without the tulle!
A literal cheese cake! Why not?
Cakes
An increasing number of couples are now choosing sponge or mud cake over the traditional wedding cake choice - fruitcake.
It's not uncommon to have a tiered arrangement of cupcakes or profiteroles or something that the couple prefer.
Some couples have even opted for a actual cheese cake! As in, arrangements of Brie, Gouda and Camembert in the shape of a cake.
Not seeing each other before the wedding
Not seeing your husband or wife to be the night before the wedding is one of the most consistently ignored traditions these days.
Since many couples live together before the wedding, it becomes quite difficult to dodge each other in the race up to the big day.
It's also hard to spend time away from someone that you love so much!
Many couples give this tradition a slight nod by spending the night away from each other, which is a nice compromise!
We could go on about all of the constantly changing and evolving wedding traditions... I mean, there's a lot- catering, bridal party attire, flowers, invitations, honeymoon plans, gift registries, telegrams...
But suffice to say, your wedding is about you and one other person. It's beautiful to think of what your family and friends will like, but at the end of the day there are two people who matter. Embrace the wedding traditions that appeal to the two of you and forget those that don't.
And have fun! Happy Wedding Planning!