We spend every waking moment engrossed in the world that is weddings. Wedding colors, wedding flowers, wedding photos and films- and yes, keeping track of wether or not a specific wedding tradition is keeping it’s luster. We live and breathe this stuff- and it can be a lot of information to absorb if you’ve never been involved with a wedding before. We thought it would be beneficial for us to drop some of the trends we have been seeing evolve over the past few years and hopefully that will help with your planning process!
Wedding Tradition 1: Old, New, Borrowed, Blue
This one is a resounding yes! We still see lots of couples opting for this tried and true tradition and it can be a super sweet part of your day. The most common way these are incorporated is through charms on your bouquet, wearing jewelry owned by a family member, and by sewing things into the lining of the dress. We are especially fond of adding some of the lace or beading from grandmas dress to your own, or choosing shoes with a baby blue on them. There are countless fun ways you can bring these four items together and we definitely encourage you to do it by using items that have sentimental value to you and yours.
Wedding Tradition 2: Bouquet & Garter Toss
Ditch ’em. Both of them. This section of the wedding is often the most uncomfortable one. The vast majority of our weddings forgo the garter all together (most brides don’t want what is essentially a stand in for their underpants to be thrown to a crowd of uncomfortable men). Of the ones who do the bouquet toss- it’s pulling teeth to get the single women to join the crowd.
Be sure and let whoever is announcing the events at your reception know that you aren’t doing these. We’ve seen a few weddings where the DJ just automatically assumed they would be done, and then started announcing that it would happen and the bride is standing there mouthing “NO NO NO” and the DJ didn’t get the hint. Just let them know up front that you are nixing that part.
Wedding Tradition 3: Favors
Not worth it. Half the time people don’t take them- and when they do they don’t keep them. A great alternative is to set up a photo booth for your guest to take pictures. You can also leave little cards on the reception tables so guests can write advice or well wishes.
It helps to provide the feel that the guests are an integral part and that you appreciate them coming without them having to pack home something you spent money on that they’ll likely toss in the trash.
If you insist on favors, go with something edible! A cute cookie with your names on them, or a little jar of local honey or jam. These are cute, usable and appreciated by hungry attendees! Check out these super cute cookies, which also made for great detail shots.
Wedding Tradition 4: Guest Books
The old school book with peoples name in it is a thing of the past. You still want a guest book- but get a little creative with it! Our favorite option is to make you an album with your engagement photos for people to sign the day of. Other options include a wall hanging (we’ve seen bourbon barrel lids, large matted photographs and even some mirrors). If your videography package through us includes a second shooter through your reception- we can also do a video guest book where guests can film themselves saying something sweet!
Wedding Tradition 5: First Looks
Do it. We talk about this in depth with couples and we firmly believe you two need to see each other prior to the ceremony. There is nothing more nerve-wracking for a groom than to be expected to preform emotionally as the bride walks down the aisle. Let the poor guy see you privately ahead of time. There, he can dote on you, tell you you’re beautiful, and cry his happy tears in peace.
First looks are not always just for you and your significant other, make sure to let us know if you plan to share one with a family member or your bridal party! We loved this super sweet first look between Alyssa and her father.
Wedding Tradition 6: Ceremony Wording
Second, is the “bride will obey husband” bit. This is common in religious ceremonies and if it’s your style- then by all means go for it, we aren’t here to judge. But be aware that it is VERY common and that if you don’t want this sort of scripture or wording in your ceremony you should notify the officiant ahead of time. There is plenty of scripture available that doesn’t outline a hierarchy and it’s easy to swap this bit out if it leaves a bad taste in your mouth.
Finally, your wedding should be about the two of you. We urge our couples to make their wedding unique and special to them and to keep and toss whatever traditions they like or don’t like. Lots of times families and friends get involved in the planning process and while we totally encourage you to take help where you can get it- don’t let great aunt Suzie bully you into doing something you don’t like or aren’t comfortable with! If you need more help don’t forget to contact us so we can help you through step by step!
Still trying to decide where to go from here? Check out these blogs to learn more about the world of wedding photography and videography with Rebecca Ann Aesthetic.
