1. The Money Dance
In this tradition, guests pin money to the bride or groom’s clothing—or drop bills into a sash or pouch—for a chance to dance with them, as Chapelle Johnson from The Knot shares. While it may sound like an open-air fundraiser, it’s meant to be a joyful gesture to help the couple start their new life. Originating from various cultures like Polish, Filipino, and Mexican weddings, the money dance has found a firm home in American receptions. Guests usually line up for their turn, often turning it into a lighthearted moment of connection.
The music is typically upbeat, and the mood is festive rather than transactional. While some guests might find it a bit too on-the-nose, many enjoy the excuse to get on the dance floor for a good cause. Couples often walk away with enough to fund a nice dinner—or part of their honeymoon. It’s sweet, a little weird, and very much an American remix of cultural traditions.
2. The Cake Smash
What starts as a gentle cake feeding can quickly escalate into a frosting-smeared food fight, according to The Guardian. The cake smash is a classic example of American wedding chaos disguised as comedy. While some couples keep it classy, others go all in, gleefully smearing cake in each other’s faces like they’re on a Nickelodeon game show. It’s messy, unexpected, and always a hit with the crowd.
Not everyone loves it—especially brides who paid a fortune for hair and makeup. Still, for many, it’s a way to show they don’t take themselves too seriously. Guests often cheer, laugh, and snap photos of the sugary showdown. Whether cringeworthy or charming, the cake smash is peak unhinged fun.
3. Jumping the Broom
This vibrant tradition, which traces its roots to African American and some European cultures, symbolizes the sweeping away of the old life and a leap into the new, according to Ariana LaBarrie from Brides. It’s often included in the ceremony as a nod to heritage, and couples take great pride in its cultural significance. The act itself is simple—jumping over a decorative broom—but the emotional weight behind it is deep and meaningful. It’s both a personal and historical moment wrapped in one.
Modern couples sometimes customize their broom with flowers, fabric, or engravings, turning it into a cherished keepsake. The jump is usually accompanied by music, cheering, and celebration, giving it a joyful energy. For some guests, it’s an unfamiliar but powerful sight, adding a unique touch to the wedding. It’s proof that even ancient customs can still feel fresh and relevant today.
4. The Bridal Shower
Think of the bridal shower as a pre-game for the bride, complete with gifts, games, and emotional speeches. Historically, according to Jaimie Mackey from Brides, these gatherings were about equipping the bride with household essentials—now they’re more about mimosa-fueled bonding. There are often themes, matching decorations, and sometimes even coordinated outfits for guests. It’s equal parts sweet celebration and Pinterest board come to life.
From lingerie giveaways to guessing games about the groom, the activities range from heartfelt to hilarious. While some guests might roll their eyes at the extravagance, others genuinely love the chance to shower the bride with attention. These events can feel a bit over-the-top, but they’re deeply embedded in American wedding culture. At their core, they’re about love, support, and a dash of competitive trivia.
5. A Unity Ceremony
The unity ceremony is where sentiment meets symbolism, with couples lighting candles, blending sand, or tying ropes to show their lives are becoming one. It usually happens mid-ceremony and gives guests a break from the standard vows and ring exchange. While it may look simple, each version carries its own symbolism and meaning. Some couples even invent their own rituals, making this moment deeply personal.
You might see trees planted, wines mixed, or even puzzle pieces locked together—there’s no limit to how quirky it can get. It’s one of those moments that might seem strange to outsiders but makes perfect sense in the emotional whirlwind of a wedding. The visuals are often beautiful and make for a great photo op. Whether heartfelt or hilariously homemade, the unity ceremony brings a touch of originality to the altar.
6. Breaking the Glass
This tradition, common in Jewish weddings, involves the groom—or both partners—smashing a glass underfoot to cap off the ceremony. Guests shout “Mazel Tov!” as the glass shatters, turning the quietest ceremony into an explosion of joy. It’s meant to remind the couple of the fragility of relationships and the importance of caring for each other. Some also say it represents the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, giving it historical weight.
The crunch of the glass is dramatic and symbolic, and everyone pays attention when it happens. It’s one of those wedding customs that feels ancient and powerful, even in a modern setting. In interfaith or multicultural weddings, it’s sometimes paired with other customs for a beautiful cultural mashup. Whether you know the history or not, it leaves a strong impression.
7. The First Look
Traditionally, it was considered bad luck for couples to see each other before the ceremony. But in modern American weddings, the “first look” flips that idea completely on its head. Couples now opt for a private, pre-ceremony moment where they see each other in full wedding attire. It’s emotional, intimate, and often captured in stunning, tear-jerking photos.
This moment gives the couple a chance to connect before the whirlwind begins. It also helps with nerves and scheduling—getting portraits done before the ceremony frees up time later. While purists may frown at breaking tradition, many find it’s one of the most genuine parts of the day. Plus, it guarantees at least one quiet moment in an otherwise hectic event.
8. The Garter Toss
Here’s a tradition that toes the line between silly and slightly scandalous. The groom removes the bride’s garter—often with exaggerated flair—and tosses it to a crowd of single male guests. Whoever catches it is supposedly next to get married, though most guys just grab it for the laugh. It’s usually paired with music, cheering, and a bit of audience embarrassment.
In recent years, the garter toss has lost some popularity, with many couples choosing to skip it. Some find it outdated or uncomfortable, especially in more conservative crowds. Others tone it down with more respectful alternatives that keep the spirit but ditch the awkwardness. Still, in the right crowd, it’s a rowdy crowd-pleaser that keeps the energy high.
9. Wearing Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue
This classic rhyme encourages brides to gather symbolic items for luck: something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. Each represents a different blessing—continuity, hope, support, and fidelity. Brides often get creative with this tradition, incorporating heirlooms, jewelry, or hidden blue stitching in their dress. It’s a sentimental scavenger hunt with a sweet backstory.
While rooted in English folklore, this custom is thoroughly American in how it’s personalized and Instagrammed. Friends and family often help the bride find these items, turning it into a bonding ritual. The meaning is gentle and lovely, even if the rhyme sounds a little superstitious. It’s one of those rare traditions that manages to be both touching and low-pressure.
10. The Honeymoon Registry
Instead of traditional wedding gifts, many American couples opt for a honeymoon registry, allowing guests to contribute to their travel experiences. Since many couples already live together before marriage and own household essentials, this modern alternative makes practical sense. Guests can fund specific parts of the honeymoon, such as a romantic dinner, an adventurous excursion, or even airfare and accommodations. It shifts the focus from material goods to creating unforgettable experiences.
While this idea may seem odd to those accustomed to traditional wedding gift-giving, it reflects a cultural shift toward valuing experiences over possessions. Some guests love the opportunity to contribute to meaningful memories, while others feel uncomfortable gifting cash. However, honeymoon registries continue to grow in popularity as couples prioritize travel and shared adventures. It’s a unique way to blend modern practicality with wedding tradition.
11. The Bouquet Toss
A lively and competitive tradition, the bouquet toss sees the bride tossing her bouquet to a group of single women at the reception. The belief is that whoever catches it will be the next to get married. While some guests eagerly participate, others shy away from the spotlight, making it one of the more divisive wedding customs. Regardless, it remains a high-energy moment filled with laughter and excitement.
In recent years, some brides have modernized this tradition by offering the bouquet to a special guest, such as a grandmother or a close friend. Others skip it altogether, believing it reinforces outdated ideas about marriage. Yet, for many, it’s a fun and harmless way to engage the crowd and keep the celebration lively. Even guests unfamiliar with the tradition quickly catch on and enjoy the spectacle.
12. Leaving the Reception
At the end of the wedding, American couples often make a grand exit, sometimes running through a tunnel of sparklers, confetti, or even flower petals. It’s a symbolic send-off, marking the start of their new life together while giving guests one last moment to celebrate. Whether they depart in a vintage car, on a motorcycle, or in a classic limo, the farewell is meant to be as memorable as the rest of the night. Many photographers capture these magical final moments, making for stunning wedding album photos.
This tradition is less common in many other countries, where receptions simply wind down naturally. However, Americans love a big finish, and the wedding send-off provides the perfect dramatic conclusion. Some couples opt for eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable confetti or bubbles, keeping the celebration fun yet sustainable. No matter the method, the idea is to leave on a high note, surrounded by the love and cheers of family and friends.
13. Personalized Wedding Vows
While many cultures stick to traditional vows, American couples often choose to write their own, making their ceremony more intimate and personal. Instead of reciting generic phrases, they share heartfelt promises tailored to their relationship. This adds a deeply emotional element to the wedding, often leaving guests (and the couple) in tears. It’s a way for the bride and groom to express their love in their own words.
For some, the idea of writing and reading personal vows can be daunting, but it creates an unforgettable moment. Many couples see this as an opportunity to reflect on their journey together and their hopes for the future. Though some stick to religious or traditional vows, the trend of personalized vows continues to grow. Guests from other cultures might find this level of emotional openness surprising, but it adds a touching, modern twist to the ceremony.
14. Wedding Party Proposals
In the U.S., it’s become common for brides and grooms to “propose” to their bridesmaids and groomsmen with creative gifts or special gestures. Instead of simply asking a friend to be part of the wedding, couples go the extra mile with personalized cards, small gifts, or even elaborate surprises. This trend adds excitement to the wedding planning process and makes the wedding party feel truly special. It also builds anticipation leading up to the big day.
While this practice is relatively new, it reflects the American emphasis on making every aspect of the wedding experience fun and meaningful. Some bridal party proposals involve customized gifts like engraved flasks, jewelry, or mini champagne bottles. Others are more casual, but the thought behind them remains the same—making friends feel valued. For those unfamiliar with the tradition, it might seem excessive, but in the U.S., it’s all about adding personal touches to the journey.
