We've seen a bit of a trend over the last year of two, with some Wedding Traditions changing.
We thought we'd write a short article on how some Bride and Grooms are changing some traditions to suit their Big Day.
Arrival at The Ceremony
Traditionally, in Britain the Bride has always stood to the right of her father, (or other relative giving her away), whilst walking up the aisle, with the bridesmaids and/or pageboys a few paces behind. However, some Brides are now choosing to let the bridesmaids and pageboys lead her to her Groom, as they usually do in America. After all, you should keep the best until last!
It's also becoming more acceptable for the Groom to turn around and look at his Bride as she walks towards him. A nice touch, we think, to help calm her nerves a little!
Speeches
Traditionally, the speeches have been held after the Wedding Breakfast, with the Bride's Father the first to stand up and say a little about his beautiful daughter, and welcoming her new husband to the family.
However, we are starting to see more couples choosing to give their Speeches before their meal. For many Grooms - and Fathers - and Best Men - the Speeches are a little daunting to say the least. By giving them before the meal, it means that everyone can really start to relax and enjoy their meal and the rest of the day.
A great idea, but a word of advice if you are thinking of doing this - check with your venue about the timings of the meal as there is a risk that the Speeches will be be longer than you anticipate and you don't want to upset the chef!
Traditionally there has always been a Top Table seating - from left to right - The Chief bridesmaid, the Groom’s dad, the Bride's mom, The Groom and Bride, the Bride's dad, the Groom's mom and the Best Man.
Today, we all know there are many blended families, who have come together later in life, and this can mean you need to be a little creative with your seating plan.
Some couples are choosing to have two or three Top Tables, perhaps with Parents at the head of their own tables, and the Bride and Goom choosing to sit with the Best Man, Ushers, or other main guests. If you are worrying about who should sit where, then why not forget Tradition and try out a whole new layout - just for YOU.
Signing of the Guest Book
A Guest Book was originally signed immediately after the Ceremony, by way of testifying that the guests were witness to the marriage. Today, there is wide range of Guest Books and Signing Boards available, and these are now usually signed after the Wedding Breakfast, with Guests leaving their special messages for the Bride and Groom. And yes, we can supply them ....
Somethine old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe
Most Brides are still following one of the longest traditions of all:
Something old - to symbolise continuity
Something new - to symbolise optimism for the Bride's new life
Something borrowed - to symbolise that the Bride can depend on family and friends
Something blue - to symbolise love and fidelity
And a sixpence in your shoe - to symbolise good luck and financial fortune - traditionally worn in the Bride's left shoe.
Photography
Well, we had to mention it didn't we!
Traditional, reportage, photojournalistic, contemporary ..... what do they all mean and what do Brides really want. Watch out for our next Blog which will hopefully explain all.
We hope we've given you a few ideas, but if you have any traditions of your own we'd love to hear about them.
