5 Outdated Wedding Traditions and What To Do Instead

This post is sponsored by Clean Origin.

Whether you’re newly engaged or you can feel the ‘big question’ is about to be popped, you’re likely already thinking about what you’ll wear, where you’ll get married, and maybe even what you’ll say when you promise forever. But, you’re also probably starting to consider some of the outdated wedding traditions that can make the lead-up to your big day, a big headache. Don’t feel like you’re alone. You’d think that by 2019 most of these traditions would be done away with, but change takes time. So, be one of the first to mix things up and do these five things instead.

Pick Out the Rings Together

Traditionally, the man had to spend time trying to figure out exactly what type of engagement ring his future fiance wanted, gauge by himself if it should be a diamond or other alternative, and figure out the size of not only the rock, but her ring finger. Although some women might still enjoy the element of surprise, I don’t think too many would object to having a bit more input. In fact, it is becoming more and more normal to simply show your significant other exactly what you want. This way, there’s no guessing and no disappointment.

There are also tons of more options in regards to the types of rings that are available. For a while, a solitaire ring with a yellow gold band was the go-to style of engagement rings. Today, there are not only tons of new styles to choose from, but there are diamond alternatives that are just as, if not more, appealing. The main option being lab made diamonds. Not only do they have the same chemical makeup as a mined diamond, but they tend to save you quite a bit of money, often coming in at 20-30% less expensive.

Split All Costs

Imagine if your dad had four daughters and your fiance was an only child. The breakdown of wedding costs would seem a bit misplaced. And that’s if you’re sticking to the tradition of having your parents help pay for the wedding. Instead of trying to decide who pays for what, why not just split everything down the middle or pay for every together. That’s how all costs will be moving forward, so why not start on the day married life becomes official? If your parents are helping you out, then maybe talk to them about this idea as well.

Wear The Color Your Want

Who says you have to wear a white dress on your wedding day?! Although the tradition seems dreamy to some people, it’s painful and unnecessary to others. Stay true to who you are and wear something that represents your personal style. This is, arguably, one of the biggest days of your life. You shouldn’t feel pressured to wear a certain color just because it’s “the way it has always been.” Find a dress that you’ll look back at and still want to put on fifty years from now. 

Let Your Bridesmaids Have a Say

Let’s face it. It’s extremely hard, if not impossible to find one single bridesmaid dress that will look good on every single one of your bridesmaids. Instead of torturing them just so you can have uniformity, let them choose a style that fits their body type and that they feel great in! A common trend at the moment is to pick a color palette and maybe even a store where you want them to purchase the dress (so that all the materials match). Then, give them free range on the style they get to choose. This will make them feel much more comfortable, which will ultimately show through in your wedding day photos and videos.

Have Food You Enjoy

Chicken or beef? How about tacos or pizza? Donuts or ice cream? One of the worst wedding traditions is the buffet-style menu that you’ve eaten five times already that wedding season. Why not mix it up and get a variety of foods that your guests will absolutely love? Find a unique caterer that offers a menu you’ve never seen before. Or have a few food trucks come and let your guests decide what they’ll be eating for dinner. The meal is often one of the most expensive parts of a wedding. And for what? Partially cold chicken and a scoop of mashed potatoes? It’s your day. Enjoy it to the fullest.

Some wedding traditions can be great. And for many, a traditional wedding is one they’ve always dreamed of. But by no means are they necessary for everyone. If you’re searching for a modern wedding, take these five recommendations into consideration during your planning.