It’s 2021, and we have been stuck with the usual wedding traditions our parents grew up with. I believe that it’s about time to get out of our comfort zone, think outside of the box, and be able to do something that is more relevant and realistic based on our current generation. This is the reason why I am here, and I want to make a difference when it comes to planning for your wedding day. In this article, I will be discussing the wedding traditions and myths you don’t have to follow.

1. WEDDING PARTY

• Gender-based Program Planning

Let us be more gender-neutral when it comes to choosing your wedding party. This is one of the top wedding traditions I feel needs to change. Choosing your wedding party should be based on what you want and are comfortable with. What matters is that both sides have someone or a group of people beside them on one of the most important day of their lives.

• The Bride and Groom to pay for the Attire

This is not mandatory. It will always depend on your budget, and both of you should talk or agree about this. 

• Not Having a Wedding Party at All

There are times that the couple just wants an intimate time alone and don’t want the extra stress. Eliminating the wedding party is totally an option and one of the most common wedding traditions I’ve seen go since the pandemic.

2. THE DRESS

You don’t have to wear a dress if you don’t want to. You don’t have to wear white either. If you feel like wearing a veil is stressful or a hassle, then don’t wear one. What you wear on the wedding day doesn’t matter. As long as you are comfortable and happy, that’s all that matters.

3. WHOLE YEAR ENGAGEMENT

If you think you are ready to get married, regardless of the duration of time you guys both have been engaged, get married! Let’s not be pressured about the standards of other people. For some within months and for others maybe within 2 years.

4. STEALING THE NAME

Ironically a lot of my couples lately have been keeping their maiden name. In my opinion, I think that’s awesome. Why should you all of the sudden have to change your name when you’ve been accustomed to your maiden name your whole life? Whatever your choice is, totally fine! There is no pressure! Just make sure that both of you talk and agree about it.

5. SEEING EACH OTHER BEFORE THE WEDDING

This depends on your beliefs and objectives. There are pros and cons if you decide to do it or not. There is absolutely a feeling to either situation. You might want to hold each other’s hands and pray before the ceremony. You might want to have a first look and take photos to save time. Or you might want to only see each other for the first time as you walk down the aisle. Whichever you choose, I know it will be incredibly special. These type of wedding traditions can defiantly be a sticky conversation to have, but open and honesty communication is best!

6. TYPICAL RECEPTION TIMELINE

Usually, you’ll see reception traditions such as champagne toasting, speeches, the bouquet toss, and the garter toss. If you want to skip these things you can. It’s something both of you should talk about. For family traditions like the money dance or cultural experiences, I would definitely add in a few family members to discuss options and see if those are things you want to keep or not.

7. WEDDING BUDGET

How you spend your money for your wedding should be based on what you can currently afford. It is unnecessary to get yourself pressured financially, just for you to be able to get your dream wedding. Work on your priorities first. There’s always a way to work around your budget, and make your dream wedding come true! 

8. GOING DIY ISN’T ALWAYS CHEAPER

The common mindset of couples is that going DIY is always the cheapest way. Sometimes you end up spending more time and money versus hiring a professional to do the work for you. Why? Because these professionals have done it plenty of times. One of the number one DIY items on the to-do list is planning your wedding on your own.

You might have a full-time job or perhaps going to school at the moment. Planning a wedding alone is a full-time job. Please ask for help from your family and friends or hire a planner. And at the very minimum hire a planner to help you manage the last bit of the wedding. That way there is enough time to catch any red flags, communicate with vendors, and execute the day of. Hire one who will absolutely be there for you and eliminate the weight on your shoulders. Enjoy your day!

So there you have it! Wedding traditions you don’t need to follow. In today’s world, I feel like we get so caught up in what everyone else thinks we need to have or be, rather than looking at ourselves and what makes us happy. Make sure that as you plan out your special day, think about you and your fiancé and make the best decision that you feel is right, regardless of what everyone else tells you. If you have any other questions or need help, feel free to contact me.

Photography By: Rivas Photo & Film