Which wedding traditions will you ignore?
What’s a wedding without tradition, right? Wrong! For hundreds of years, couples have been abiding by an intricate set of rules and traditions that supposedly must be followed. Now, we’re telling you to tear up the rulebook. Make your wedding unique to you and only follow the customs you are completely comfortable with.
At the very least, wedding traditions can help to provide some structure to the day, from the cutting of the cake to the first dance. However, it is important to remember that this is your day, and it is down to you and your partner to dictate how your wedding should play out.
First dance
What better place to start than with the most daunting of traditions for lots of newlyweds. For some, the thought of dancing in front of your nearest and dearest can invoke feelings of angst unrivalled by any other aspect of the day.
If this applies to you, then why not forgo the first dance and consider an alternative? There will be plenty of opportunities later in the night to share a dance with your partner and loved ones, so don’t feel the pressure to do it with the eyes of the party on you.
The proposal
Long before a bouquet is tossed or confetti is thrown, there is a veritable minefield of traditions to navigate when it comes to posing the all important-question. How much should I spend on the ring? Do I need to ask the family’s permission?
The entire proposal process should be carried out in a way that feels comfortable for you and your partner, irrespective of societal norms or expectations. From the search for your engagement ring to finding the perfect location, doing it your way will ensure there are no awkward moments as you start your lives together.
Giving away the bride
For some, the act of a father giving away the bride remains a poignant and important part of the wedding ceremony. However, this tradition pre-dates 21st century norms, with it originating from a time when daughters were considered the property of their fathers.
Whilst this act was originally considered a transfer of ownership from father to groom, the perception of the practice has evolved. Many choose to include it as part of the ceremony to signify the coming together of the two families. But, many brides-to-be still view this act as archaic, and may choose to walk down the aisle with another family member, or even on their own.
Whatever traditions you choose to incorporate or leave out of your wedding, be sure to make sure your wedding day is all about you and your partner. Your day should reflect things that represent you both, whether that be new traditions or old.