Traditions To Ditch On Your Wedding Day

To tradition or to not tradition – that is the question! It can be such a hard decision to decide what traditions you want to include and what ones are not your vibe. But just remember, it is your day and your way! You can take on board as many or as few traditions as you want.

Some couples may choose to keep each and every one of the original wedding traditions from the first dance, wedding party, bouquet, garter toss, and so on. Whilst other couples maybe choose one or two that mean a lot to them that they want to include and scrap the rest! It’s completely up to you as a couple and what you feel comfortable with. And we get it – when mum is complaining you are not having a first dance or cake cutting, we know it can be super hard to broach that with close family – it’s a tough one!

Let’s be real—weddings have changed a lot, and many of the traditions that were once considered “non-negotiable” are now totally optional. But with that freedom comes questions, uncertainty, and sometimes family expectations that feel a little... outdated.

This is where honest conversations come in.

If you’re thinking of skipping a few traditions or doing things a little differently, it’s best to talk about it early—especially with family or friends who might be impacted. This avoids awkward moments down the track and gives everyone time to adjust to the idea that your day will reflect you as a couple, not just what's always been done.

Here are a few traditions we're seeing more and more of our couples confidently reimagine (or remove altogether)—and how we support them in making those decisions:

1. No Kids at the Wedding 👶🏼

This one comes up a lot. Choosing not to have children at your wedding—whether that’s for the whole event or just the reception—is completely valid.

You might skip the flower girl and page boy altogether, or invite kids just for the ceremony and have them head off with a babysitter before the reception kicks off. I always recommend communicating this early, clearly, and kindly to avoid assumptions.

My take? Most parents appreciate a night off to let their hair down—just give them enough notice to organise care.

2. Walking Down the Aisle – Your Way 👣

Traditionally, the bride is accompanied by her father—but many of our couples have family dynamics that don’t fit that mold, or simply want to honour different people in their life.

We've seen:

  • Brides walk with both parents

  • A groom walk down the aisle solo

  • A bride walk with her mum, brother, or even a beloved pet!

  • Couples walk down the aisle together after doing a first look

There’s no rulebook here—do what feels most meaningful and comfortable for you.

3. The First Dance Dilemma 💃🏼

You either love the idea of the first dance, or you’re dreading it. Most couples I work with say, “It’s just not us!”—and that’s totally okay.

You can:

  • Dance for 30 seconds, then invite your wedding party or guests to join in

  • Skip it altogether

  • Do something low-key like a slow sway to your favourite song

  • Blend the parent dances into it, like having your partner and their mum join halfway through

We’ll talk through what makes sense for you and what fits your energy.

4. Speeches 🎤

Couples often ask: “Who’s supposed to speak? What’s the order?”

My answer: There are no rules anymore.

Some couples do speeches at canapé hour, some keep them super short, others opt out completely. Instead of ticking a box, focus on inviting people who’ll share stories or moments that matter to you. That’s what makes it memorable.

5. Seating Plans 🍽

Ohhh the stress of the seating chart… It’s one of the most emotionally charged parts of planning, especially with complex family dynamics.

Options we’ve supported couples with include:

  • No seating chart (yes, it can work!)

  • Assigned tables but no assigned seats

  • Skipping the “bridal party” table altogether

  • Sitting as a couple with your parents or guests instead of being on display

Let’s find what feels easiest and most enjoyable for your vibe.

Here’s the Thing: It’s YOUR Wedding 💫

The only rule is this: do what feels right for you as a couple.

You’re not “breaking” traditions—you’re creating your own. And I’m here to guide you through that with empathy, ideas, and solutions that make the process feel exciting, not overwhelming.

So, trust your gut. Dream big. And remember: it’s not about what’s expected—it’s about what matters most to you.

Luke Williams