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Classic Wedding Traditions | & What We Think

  • eventswithsummer
  • May 1
  • 4 min read

1. The White Dress

The tradition of the white wedding dress became popular after Queen Victoria wore one in 1840. Today, while some brides are embracing color or patterns, the classic white gown still symbolizes purity, celebration, and tradition. It remains one of the most recognizable American wedding staples. | White, black, peach, rainbow? You're the bride, wear whatever makes you feel pretty!


2. The Wedding Party

Bridesmaids and groomsmen play a major role in weddings. The bridal party tradition dates back to ancient times, when attendants dressed like the bride to ward off evil spirits. Today, it’s more about emotional support and friendship—and of course, coordinating outfits and fun pre-wedding festivities like the bachelorette or bachelor party. | Bridal parties should feel meaningful—not mandatory. Whether you have ten people standing by your side or none at all, choose what feels true to you!


3. Walking Down the Aisle

It’s traditional for the bride to walk down the aisle escorted by her father, symbolizing the “giving away” of the bride. While many couples still honor this gesture, others are personalizing it—walking solo, with both parents, or with a sibling or friend—to reflect modern values and relationships. | Such a special moment to share with whoever feels right to YOU. It's a comforting presence when you're full of nerves.


4. The Vows

Whether written personally or recited from a traditional script, the exchanging of vows is the heart of most wedding ceremonies. Couples use this moment to make promises for their life ahead, blending the legal and emotional aspects of marriage. | Public speaking isn't everyones thing express your vows however you feel most comfortable... Stumble on your words? Who the heck doesn't, brush it off nobody will remember.


5. The Kiss

Sealing the vows with a kiss is a long-held tradition that marks the moment the couple becomes officially married. It’s a moment of celebration, often followed by cheers, music, and happy tears. | Feel your nerves leave your body the second you kiss! Everyone is yelling and cheering for the happy couple!


6. The First Dance

After the ceremony, couples often share a first dance at the reception. This tradition, rooted in European royal balls, has become a highly anticipated, romantic part of the evening—and often reflects the couple’s unique style through song choice and choreography. | A dance and song that resembles you guys as a couple. Can be upbeat or slow whatever you want it to be! Just enjoy this moment together before you're dancing with everyone else in the room!


7. Cake Cutting & Feeding Each Other

The wedding cake is more than dessert—it’s a symbol of celebration. Cutting the cake together represents the couple’s shared future, and feeding each other a bite is a sweet (sometimes messy) gesture of care and unity. | If we're being honest, I always thought nobody needed to see this.... until we didn't announce it happening and all the women in the room asked "when did the cake get cut!! We missed it!!". It's special and fun... just make sure you agree on if you're getting cake in the face or just a nice serving.


8. Bouquet & Garter Toss

The bouquet toss is a popular reception tradition where the bride throws her bouquet to the group of single women—whoever catches it is said to be next to marry. Similarly, the garter toss involves the groom removing the garter and tossing it to the single men. These playful traditions have modern variations, or are sometimes skipped entirely. | If this is your style we will absolutely support you and make sure it happens, but lets be honest most "single" ladies don't want to be forced to the center of any room thats just my take.


9. “Something Old, Something New…”

This well-known rhyme has roots in English tradition but is widely followed in American weddings. Brides often wear or carry items that are:

  • Something old – symbolizing continuity,

  • Something new – for optimism,

  • Something borrowed – for shared happiness,

  • Something blue – for fidelity and love.

    | This always feels like a special thing to share with maybe a grandma or the moms or an aunt. Something they always feel so proud and happy about.


10. Personalized Details

Modern weddings often include unique personal touches: signature cocktails, custom vows, choreographed dances, and cultural elements that reflect the couple’s heritage or interests. These details help create a wedding experience that feels authentic and memorable. | We love all things personal. Have pets? put them on a napkin or in your cake. Have a favorite song? Make it your entrance song. The entire day is about the two of you, add any personalized detail you want in whatever way you want!


Blending Tradition and Individuality

Modern weddings offer the perfect blend of old and new. While many couples still honor long-held customs, they also feel free to reinvent traditions or skip them entirely. Whether you’re planning a classic church wedding or a backyard celebration, the most meaningful traditions are the ones that resonate with you and your partner.


Whats your favorite wedding tradition?
Whats your favorite wedding tradition?

 
 
 

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