Wedding TraditionsL New, Old, and some to get over!

Original Article by Me >>>

There are some traditions that have stood the test of time and some that are starting to get nixed from modern weddings. Which ones should stay and which should go? And what new one should you add? Check it out here!

-Terra Khachooni

OVER IT: STOPPING THE MUSIC FOR SILLY STUFF.

More and more weddings are opting to omit traditions that interrupt the flow of the reception. My wedding planner simply stated, “if you think it’s cheesy, then chances are, others do too.” Oftentimes, once the toasts have been made, the spotlight dance is over and dinner is done, it’s very difficult to get folks off the dance floor to stop and watch the groom begrudgingly take the stage to stick his hand up the bride’s dress for the garter toss.

As for throwing the bouquet, it’s somewhat of a challenge nowadays to find single ladies eager to catch a bouquet in hopes of being the next Mrs. Something (Women’s Lib, what?!). And finally, many modern weddings are opting for dessert buffets or other alternatives to the typical wedding cake and traditional cake cutting. Again, another thing to stop the music for…and who wants a bunch of frosting all over their face after getting their makeup professionally done?

OLD BUT AWESOME: SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW, SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE.

This is a fantastic tradition and is special to the bride because it can be so personal. It doesn’t interfere with the wedding itself and no matter how outside the box a wedding is, it’s easy to keep.

“Something old” symbolizes the past, the family and those no longer with the wedding party. It is often a family heirloom and an opportunity to receive a very special priceless gift. “Something new” represents good fortune and success for a wonderful new life; this is sometimes the engagement ring.

“Something borrowed” symbolizes the love and support of family and friends in times of need. This can be something from a best friend or a sister. “Something Blue” is an object that symbolizes faithfulness and loyalty. A modern twist to the typical blue garter might be blue undies or shoes.

OVER IT: IDENTICAL BRIDESMAIDS.

Boo! How un-fun is this fashion mandate? The ’80s matchy-matchy dresses, necklaces, hair and (eek—dyed!) shoes, are so passé. And thank goodness! The goal today is to have everyone look fabulous and feel comfy in their bridesmaid frocks. It looks awkward if you’re trying to stuff all different body types into the same dress style.

Fashion-forward weddings now offer different style dresses in the same hue, a variety of shades in the same color tones or, better yet, a mix and match of dresses that share a same theme. Bridesmaid dresses have become an opportunity to get creative and make a bigger visual impact on your wedding day.

NEW: CHOREOGRAPHING A SURPRISE DANCE.

This fantastic new trend has been making weddings memorable and full of fun! Whether it’s the bride and groom opting not to bore their guests with wobbling back and forth for their spotlight dance, shows like Dancing With the Stars have inspired making more of an effort to dazzle the floor with new moves.

Or, sometimes it’s the wedding party that plans a show-stopper. I recently went to a reception where the Michael-Jackson-obsessed bride received a surprise by her wedding party breaking out into a fully rehearsed “Thriller” dance. Sure, this takes time, but it’s worth the experience! Everyone worries that the dance floor will be empty, so get out there and be an example.