The North Platte Telegraph Bridal Guide 15
been forced to change due to various restrictions around COVID-19. “That presents a real opportunity for couples to decide what’s important to them and what speaks to them. Does the tradi- tion or trend in question enhance your day? That’s all that matters,” he says. Ask Allison Newton, owner and designer at Allison Event Design in Savannah, Georgia, and she’ll tell you that carrying a personalized bridal bouquet, for example, is one tradition that won’t go away anytime soon. On the other hand, “saving the top of the wedding cake is out,” explains Newton. “The last thing you want to worry about after your reception and jetting off to your honeymoon is pre- serving the cake properly so there isn’t any freezer burn.” Many couples nowadays are abandoning a traditional cake and cake cutting in favor of dessert tables, adds Dalley. “But we’ve found that no matter the type of wedding style, the first kiss is a tradition that has stood the test of time and remains popular among people getting married today,” he says. A formerly valued ritual getting nixed nowadays is the removal and tossing of the garter. “Over the last four years, folks just don’t seem to want to do it anymore, and for good reason: I think a lot of couples realize how awkward it can be for those participating,” notes Daniel Hess, a Baltimore-based videographer and owner of To Tony Productions who’s been filming weddings for nearly 9 years. “Another one on its way out is the shoe game, where couples exchange shoes to answer questions about one another. It’s good for an initial chuckle, but it really just slows down the event.” Instead, Hess recommends a trending practice: the grand sendoff of the bride and groom at the end of the night using sparklers or glow sticks.
“I’ve even seen lightsabers used for the sendoff. It’s a chance to have one last big moment before the night is over,” says Hess, who also recommends keeping formal traditions like the father of the bride escorting his daughter down the aisle, intro- ductions of the bridal party, the first dance, and parent danc- es. A newer norm gaining traction is sending hand-written notes to each guest when they arrive in town and inserting person- alized menu cards at each dinner table. “Personalized experiences are one of the best ways to thank your guests for witnessing and celebrating your wedding,” suggests Newton. That’s why Aleece recommends that you and your spouse give a thank-you speech together as a couple during your reception. “It isn’t tradition for newlyweds to speak at their event, but it is a lovely opportunity to thank guests, family, or vendors that help you bring your wedding vision to life,” she says. Think twice before choosing faux flowers, cautions Shelley Grieshop, PR director with Coldwater, Ohio-headquartered Totally Wedding Koozies. “Couples now are increasingly selecting live flowers or lush greenery such as ivy and evergreen branches,” says Grieshop. “Also, a more natural, woodsy look has taken over because it’s typically easier to match most wedding colors and themes.” Above all, don’t feel pressured into any tradition that doesn’t feel authentic or genuine to who you are as a couple, Aleece recommends. “There are no laws that say you have to do anything. Throw all the traditions out the window if they feel forced,” she adds. Your wedding day should feel like a true reflection of your relationship.”
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