New Twists on Old Wedding Traditions

Posted on June 12, 2015 by Today's Bride

There’s something to be said for the symbolism of honoring wedding traditions. How incredible is it that your vows have been said by millions of couples around the world? On the other hand, even though it is important to be aware of traditions and how to use them properly, you shouldn’t be afraid to tweak a tradition to make it more truly yours. After all, Picasso himself once said, “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Steal some of these ideas, and your guests will see you for the artist you are.

You’re Never Too Old to Be a Flower Girl

Walking down an aisle in front of hundreds of strangers watching your every move is stressful enough for adults, but expecting young children to walk down an aisle properly, stand still for 30 minutes silently and not run to their parents is often impossible. To prevent the dash to their parents and loud cries of fear, opt for someone a little older and mature to fill this task. Instead, let your grandmother(s) be involved!

Make a Wish For Love

If you’re not a traditionalist and looking for a new trend to insert into your wedding, the penny wish is perfect for you. Leave a jar of pennies by your guest book, so guests can take one and make a wish for you. You can decide to allow guests to freely toss their pennies on their own, or have a designated moment during the reception where all guests do it together. Just have the emcee announce that it is time to make a wish for the couple and count down to the toss. It is a fun interaction that allows your guests to mingle and promises to make a beautiful photograph.

Say “I Love You” With a Rose

As an alternative to the unity candle ceremony, you and your groom-to-be could choose to shower love on the ones who brought you into this world – your mothers.

As you and your finance are joining together as one, have your Officiant pause for a moment as you both turn and deliver roses to your mothers — sealed with a hug, of course!

While you both personally thank your mothers, have your Officiant share the Mothers’ Rose Ceremony thank you (there are an assortment of versions) or, if you prefer, a heartfelt message you wrote to show your love and appreciation.

Dreams Do Come True

If you do decide you want to maintain the tradition of the bouquet toss, opt for a non-traditional version that will appeal to all of your female guests. Instead of summoning single ladies only to the dance floor to do the “walk of shame,” invite all female guests to the dance floor to make their wishes come true. As your guests scurry to meet you, they will be told that whoever catches the bouquet will have their dreams come true.

 

Spice It Up on the Dance Floor

At most wedding you go to, you’ll see the newly married couple slowly swaying together to their first-dance song. While we think that is completely and utterly romantic, it may not be fitting for the energetic couple who wants something livelier. Heat things up by opting for a sexy tango or salsa instead — it will draw lots of whistling and applause from your guests.

A New Take on the Toast

Typically, the Best Man, Maid of Honor and the bride’s parents are the ones to raise a glass to the couple. But why should they get to have all the fun? Step in with a few words to thank your bridal party for all their hard work and to thank your guests for coming.

Toss the Bouquet Toss

Because many of the single ladies tend to be less than thrilled to participate in the bouquet toss, some brides are opting to remove it altogether. Instead, you might consider honoring your closest gal pals with a toast or with personal notes. You might also present the bouquet to your parents or mentor as a special recognition of their love and support.

A Special Sendoff

The bride and groom are often sent off with a shower of rice and then whisked away in a getaway car. There are, however, many ways to twist this tradition around. You can opt for a sparkler or confetii-filled sendoff instead. Or you can follow in many couples’ footsteps and decide to stay until the very end to dance the night away! In these instances, couples are turning the tables by sending guests off — providing shuttles, taxis or even boats, to ensure their guests get home or to their hotels safe and sound.

Now go break those rules, lady love!