There’s a lot of advice out there telling you to break the mould and ditch outdated traditions on your wedding day. And yes, some wedding customs do feel a bit old-fashioned or cringey. But at the same time, there’s something special about these traditions. They’ve been passed down for hundreds of years, connecting us to our cultural roots. They also bring a sense of stability and help create that shared experience that makes your wedding so memorable for everyone involved.
If you’re looking for ways to update those traditions while staying true to your own style, here are a few simple ideas to put your unique spin on them:
#1 Walk Down the Aisle with Your Loved Ones
Who says you have to be “given away” by just one person? If your dad’s not around, or if you just want to include the people who’ve been there for you, consider having both of your parents, or anyone important to you, walk you down the aisle. This is a special moment to share with those closest to you before you meet your partner.
#2 Let Both Partners Give a Speech
Gone are the days when one person takes the mic and speaks for both of you. It makes more sense for both of you to stand up and say a few words, whether it’s together or separately. Even just a few heartfelt words of thanks to your guests will feel authentic and personal. It’s also really nice for both of you to hear a speech from your partner.
#3 Give Everyone a Chance to Speak
In fact – why not let everyone have a say? Speeches are a great way to include everyone and let your loved ones share their thoughts and well wishes with the couple. It adds a personal touch and gives everyone a chance to be part of the celebration. Traditionally the men stand up and speak, so let’s see more sisters, bridesmaids and mums giving speeches at weddings!
#4 Make Your Wedding Cake Work Double Duty
Why not combine the traditional wedding cake with a dessert everyone will love? You can go for the classic tiered cake, but why not consider a giant pavlova, a dessert table, or even a non-traditional cake that suits your tastes? This saves money while still keeping the wedding cake tradition alive with a little extra fun and flair.
#5 Turn Your First Dance Into a Sing-Along
The first dance is a classic moment, but it doesn’t have to be a stiff, formal affair. Choose a song everyone knows—preferably a classic that’ll get the crowd singing along. Not only will this take the pressure off your dance moves, but it’ll make the moment feel more communal and full of joy. After all, your wedding is about celebrating love with everyone there.
Wedding traditions don’t have to feel stuffy or outdated. By putting your own twist on them, you can create a celebration that feels personal, meaningful, and fun for both you and your guests. So, whether you keep things traditional or make some modern updates, the most important thing is that your day reflects who you are as a couple.
