1. Jumping the Broom
Originating from African American traditions, jumping the broom symbolizes the couple’s transition into married life. It’s a beautiful way to honor ancestry and bring in good fortune. Couples who incorporate this ritual often feel a deeper connection to their heritage and share a special moment that represents their commitment.
2. The Money Dance
This fun tradition allows guests to pay to dance with the bride and groom, often using cash pinned to their attire. It’s a playful way to raise money for the couple as they start their life together and offers guests a chance to celebrate in a unique, interactive way. Plus, who doesn’t love dancing with friends and family?
3. The Cake Smash
What started as a playful moment between the couple has become a popular tradition. While some couples lovingly feed each other cake, others enjoy a more mischievous approach and smash cake in each other’s faces. Regardless of the method, it’s a delightful way to break the ice and add a fun, memorable moment to the celebration.
4. The Bridal Shower
This tradition dates back to the 1890s and is often thought to have originated from the Dutch. Friends and family shower the bride with gifts and well-wishes, but did you know it was initially a way to help a less fortunate bride gather essentials for her new home? It’s a lovely gesture that fosters community and support for the bride as she embarks on her new journey.
5. A Unity Ceremony
Many couples opt for a unity ceremony during the wedding to symbolize their union. From candle lighting to sand ceremonies, these rituals add a personal flair to the ceremony and create a memorable moment that represents the blending of two lives. It’s a great way for couples to express their individuality while celebrating their commitment.
6. Breaking the Glass
Common in Jewish weddings, this tradition involves the groom breaking a glass at the end of the ceremony. It represents the fragility of relationships and the destruction of the old life in favor of the new. It’s a powerful moment that signifies the couple’s commitment, and it often leads to an enthusiastic shout of “Mazel Tov!” from the guests!
7. The First Look
While many modern couples are choosing to see each other before the ceremony, this trend can be traced back to the idea that it brings luck. It allows the couple a private moment to connect before the chaos of the wedding day, reducing stress and fostering intimacy. Many couples find that this special moment sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
8. The Garter Toss
This playful tradition has roots in ancient customs where guests believed that having a piece of the bride’s clothing would bring good luck. Today, the groom removes the garter and tosses it to the single men at the reception, adding a fun, competitive element to the festivities. It’s a lighthearted moment that often leads to lots of laughter and excitement.
9. Wearing Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue
This custom traces back to an old English rhyme meant to bring luck to the bride. Each item symbolizes different aspects of her journey: continuity (old), optimism for the future (new), support from loved ones (borrowed), and fidelity (blue). Incorporating this tradition adds a personal touch and allows brides to reflect on their family and friendships.
10. The Honeymoon Registry
Instead of traditional gifts, some couples are opting for honeymoon registries, allowing guests to contribute to their travel plans. This trend acknowledges that many couples already have everything they need for their home and prefer experiences over material gifts. It’s a great way for guests to contribute to lasting memories rather than just household items.
11. The Bouquet Toss
A tradition that dates back to the 14th century, the bouquet toss involves the bride throwing her bouquet to a group of single women. The one who catches it is said to be the next to marry. This fun tradition is a light-hearted way to involve guests and creates an exciting moment during the reception, filled with laughter and friendly competition.
12. Leaving the Reception
At the end of the night, couples often leave the reception under a shower of sparklers or confetti. This tradition adds a celebratory and festive conclusion to the wedding day, allowing guests to send off the newlyweds with love and joy. It’s a memorable way to cap off the festivities and create a lasting impression for everyone involved.
