Something New

Couples are opting to kick tradition in favor of their spin

By Rebecca Padgett Frett

THE BEAUTY OF A MODERN WEDDING is that it can be customized to your preferences as a couple. Maybe you want to keep it completely traditional. Possibly, you want to kick all traditional wedding expectations. Most likely, you will incorporate elements of tradition alongside unique, new ideas.

Below is a list of ways that couples are currently challenging traditions in ways that are fun, sentimental, and often economical.

WEAR WHAT YOU WANT

Adhering to the bride wearing all white or the groom in a classic suit color is one of the most expected traditions, but it may not be for you. Wear that hot pink ball gown or sequin skirt set. Grooms, go with whatever color feels most you. This is a wonderful way to showcase your sense of fashion and personality.

SECOND LOOKS

While first looks between the couple have been popular for a while, second looks are becoming more common. This is where an outfit change occurs between the ceremony and reception. Instead of revealing it just to one another, it’s revealed to the guests during a grand entrance or first dance.

LAST DANCES

The first dance is typically witnessed by everyone at the reception. A last dance, on the other hand, is just for the couple (and potentially a photographer or videographer). This is a moment for the couple to have alone, reflecting on their wedding day at the end of the day. During this time, the guests can be arranging themselves and preparing for the grand exit.

WELCOME PARTIES FOR ALL

It used to be that welcome parties only occurred for destination weddings. Now, they occur at any kind of wedding as a means of spending more time with guests. In some cases, a rehearsal occurs with just the wedding party and then all join for a party—or the rehearsal is scrapped altogether. Welcome parties can be as casual or extravagant as the couple wishes.

AFTER-PARTIES

It’s one of the happiest days of your life and you never want it to end, so why not keep the celebration going with an after-party? Couples are opting to make this a major part of the wedding weekend, ex- tending the party at a new location, often complete with signature drinks, late-night bites, and entertainment.

WEEKDAY WEDDINGS

This one came about because of the pandemic when couples were scrambling for any day at a venue they could get. This can save you dollars and opens many more options for dates during particularly busy times of year. While making it a long weekend, such as a Monday or Friday, is preferred, any day is doable.

DOWN THE AISLE

Many women forgo the notion of being “given away” and are also opting for those other than a father to walk them down the aisle. Consider your mom, father figure, close family member, mentor, best friend, or pet. Make the best statement of self-love and confidence by walking down solo.

FORGO A WEDDING PARTY

Some couples just want it to be themselves and their fiancé at the altar. This doesn’t mean you don’t want your friends involved. It just means not in the typical ways. Maybe you don’t have a bridal party that walks down the aisle, but instead, you have close friends that sit in the front row. Maybe you forgo a bachelor or bachelorette party, instead hosting an intimate dinner or house party for your best friends in celebration of your love.

LATERMOONS

Let’s be honest, weddings can get pricey, and a honeymoon immediately after may not be feasible. There’s no rule saying the honeymoon must be immediately after the wedding. The planning is over, the wedding has happened, so take some time for rest, recovery, and routine. Then, within the next year, go on a trip where you can continue the celebration of your wedding day months later.

CREATIVE DINING

Don’t feel confined to sit-down dinners if it doesn’t align with your style. From buffet-style to passed courses to food trucks, dining options can allow guests to move about freely or experiment with a variety of different cuisines.

Feature Photo by Elizabeth Birdwell Photography