Before we start this blog, we want to ensure everyone knows we are completely 100% okay if you want every tradition under the sun for your wedding - we are just here to say that you also don't have to and want to offer some fresh ideas in regards to how you can change up your day.
Here at Planned It! we believe your day is in fact YOUR day. Whether you feel tradition is your jam, or maybe changing things up is what excites you about your day - we are here to assist. Read below some traditions which we think could use a shake up and how.
PARENTS OF THE BRIDE TO PAY
Look, if our parents were to say "here is $40,000 for your wedding" - we would not say no! But with that, this in no way should be something expected. Traditionally the Brides parents were the ones to host the wedding which meant they would pay for everything, nowadays weddings are held at venues, farms, extended family property etc.. This along with the age of the "Modern Bride" getting older, we feel like this tradition needs to take a step back. Of course it’s fabulous when family want to help out and assist you with your day but if you want to pay for your own and stick to your own budget - go for it! #independentcouplelife
Why not have the conversation with all family involved and see what you can do as a team? Maybe your partners family wants to pitch in for the bar and your family want to help with the dress. Maybe one family could help with the engagement and the other could help out with the wedding. Orrr maybe you and your partner have enough to enjoy a small celebration and no one needs to assist?
WHITE DRESS
Surprisingly the white dress is thanks to Queen Victoria who wore plain white to marry Prince Albert in 1840, and sparked a trend that's lasted to this day — but, surprisingly, she didn't wear it to symbolise purity or virginity. She just wore it because she liked white. Prior to this, dresses were all sorts of colours and shapes! So now we have that in mind..Firstly, why does it have to be white? Secondly, why does it have to be a dress? We are honestly fans of a white or ivory gown but are loving the current trends with separates, suits and the blush pink beauties! If you want to wear a green dress, brown dress, rainbow dress or even a dang suit! Go for it! We think you need to be comfortable and if you love yourself in a jumpsuit or pant suit - why not embrace it on your wedding day?
FATHER WALKS BRIDE DOWN THE AISLE
This tradition stems from the time where marriage was treated like a business deal, where the father of the bride literally hands over ownership of his daughter to her new husband. This one can be problematic for a few reasons; difficulty for brides whos father is not in the picture or has passed, there could be a complex family situation which doesn't consist of the "norm" or the bride could simply be an independent woman who doesn't require anyone to walk her.
Have your mum walk you
If both parents are present - why not have both?
Best friend
Sibling
Bridal Party
Walk in with your other half
BRIDESMAIDS + GROOMSMEN
The traditional story of why there were bridesmaids and groomsmen is a bit of a weird one.
Traditionally the bride would have ten bridesmaids dressed identically to her to trick any evil spirits who may want to harm the newlyweds. The traditional role of groomsmen is to help the groom defend his bride in case of attack....
Now, we aren't sure if this is why you have your bridesmaids and groomsmen in mind (we are sure they would look after you in any crazy situation).. but one thing we do know is that realistically, you don't necessarily need them! EEK! Controversial!
You could have 10 bridesmaids, or you could have none. You could have more groomsmen than bridesmaids or vice versa. You could have them with you for photos and reception but keep the ceremony for you and your loved one. The decision is yours but we don't think they are a MUST HAVE on your big day - they are just a fabulous addition.
NOT SEEING EACH OTHER BEFORE THE CEREMONY
Much like the father of the bride walking her down the aisle, this tradition began because of the arrangement and fears that if the groom did not like the bride that the fathers deal would be called off. Awful right?? We think this is something that is completely personal but thought we would throw in a few ideas!
Keep it as tradition - have a few nights with the girls prior to the big day so it is so much more exciting to see your favourite human
Have a mini glimpse prior to the ceremony. A moment where you both (and maybe a photographer) see each other for the first time and wish each other luck and love. You could even combine this with arriving to the ceremony together and walking the aisle as a couple! Starting as a team and finishing as an officially married team!
Have a celebratory champagne breakfast with the groomsmen and bridesmaids all together as a pre-ceremony celebration
We LOVE the idea of a dinner the night before with all of the important people and then enjoying the ceremony as "tradition"
We would love you to reach out if you are planning your big day, engagement o reven just a shin dig! Even if you just want to chat about all things events - we are here x
Emily X
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