Breaking Wedding Traditions
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW
From unique guest books to switching up their first look, we love seeing our couples put their own spin on time-honored traditions. Making your day your way is an essential part of any wedding, so don't be afraid to add a little or a whole lotta personality.
Scroll on for Pinterest-worthy inspiration on breaking tradition from our real weddings!
1. ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL GUEST BOOKS
Even your guest book can be uniquely you. Choose something that speaks to who you are as a couple, like a globe if you love to travel or a surfboard if you love the ocean.
Photos by Caley Newberry and Details Nashville
2. WEDDING FASHION
Never be afraid to express your personal style and wear what makes you feel good on your wedding day!
Statements like dramatic earrings, colorful nails, and fresh floral necklaces are fun ways to show your personality. Not to mention, a white dress isn't the only thing modern brides are rocking. Some are wearing different colored gowns or ditching them altogether.
And as for your wedding party? The same idea can apply! As long as everyone is sticking to your preferred color palette and fabrics, let your VIPs choose outfits that make them feel at ease — whether it’s a pantsuit, gown, or even something more casual.
Photos by Sarah Kriner, Anne Tenkhoff, Kendall Parsons, and Stephanie Sorenson
3. THE CEREMONY
That's right — even the ceremony is getting a new look.
NON-TRADITIONAL PROCESSIONAL
Starting with the ceremony entrance, some couples are choosing to walk down the aisle together, with both parents, solo, or with a sibling or two.
PERSONAL VOWS
We love it when couples write their own vows. It makes the ceremony more personal and heartfelt. Not sure what to write? You can start with sharing your promises, memories, and jokes that reflect your relationship.
CUSTOM UNITY CEREMONIES
In addition to writing personal vows or choosing to walk the aisle alone, more couples are having fun with their unity ceremonies by putting their own spin on the tradition — from potting a plant to boxing a special bottle of wine to pouring out unity sand.
FLOWER GIRLS
Don't get us wrong, we will forever love the traditional flower girl with their ballerina buns and tutu dresses, but flower dudes, dogs, and grandmas are just as cute! Couples are also skipping the tradition all together.
Photography by John Myers, Whitney Cadavid, Stephanie Sorenson, and Shawna Leanne
4. A BLENDED WEDDING PARTY
Couples are diversifying their wedding parties by including people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds who are important to them. Just because you're a bride doesn't mean your bridal party has to consist of all women or that your maid of honor can't actually be a man of honor. Embrace your wedding on your own terms and focus on partying with the ones you love.
Photography by Details Nashville, Stephanie Sorenson, and Kristin Sweeting
5. SKIPPING THE FORMALITIES
Skip certain formalities like the garter toss, cake cutting, or even the first dance if they don't feel right for you.
6. EXTENDED CELEBRATIONS
The celebration doesn’t have to stop when the venue closes, so nix the wedding exit and keep the party going. Whether it’s hitting downtown or heading to an AirBnb, an after party can be a fun way to extend your big day.
Remember that breaking traditions should be done in a way that feels authentic and comfortable for you and your partner. It's about celebrating your love and creating a wedding that uniquely represents who you are as a couple.
