If you’re planning your wedding and wondering whether to follow tradition or forge your own path, here are five wedding traditions that couples are leaving behind—and the modern alternatives that are taking their place.
5 Outdated Wedding Traditions & Their Modern Alternatives
Weddings are full of traditions, many of which have been passed down for centuries. But in 2025, couples are ditching outdated customs in favor of celebrations that truly reflect their values, personalities, and relationships. If you’re planning your wedding and wondering whether to follow tradition or forge your own path, here are five wedding traditions that couples are leaving behind—and the modern alternatives that are taking their place.
1. The Bride Being Given Away
The Tradition: Historically, a father “giving away” his daughter symbolized a transfer of ownership from her family to her husband. While this may have been the norm centuries ago, the idea feels outdated to many modern couples.
The Modern Take: Today, many couples are rethinking this moment. Some are choosing to walk down the aisle together as a symbol of equality, while others are inviting both parents, a sibling, or even a best friend to accompany them. And plenty of couples are skipping the processional entirely in favor of a more relaxed, intimate ceremony entrance.
2. Bridal Party Gender Roles
The Tradition: Wedding parties were traditionally divided by gender—groomsmen on one side, bridesmaids on the other. But why should your support system be determined by outdated norms?
The Modern Take: Couples are embracing “wedding parties” rather than “bridesmaids” and “groomsmen,” letting loved ones stand by their side regardless of gender. Groomsmaids, bridesmen, mixed groups, and even no wedding party at all—there are no rules, just what feels right for you.
3. White Wedding Dresses Only
The Tradition: White wedding dresses became popular in the 19th century thanks to Queen Victoria. The color symbolized purity and innocence, but today, it’s simply a style choice.
The Modern Take: Couples are breaking free from the all-white dress code and embracing colorful wedding attire. Shades of blush, champagne, soft pastels, and even bold jewel tones are making their way into wedding fashion. And if dresses aren’t your thing? Chic jumpsuits, colorful suits, and nontraditional outfits are making a statement.
4. Bouquet & Garter Toss
The Tradition: The bouquet toss was meant to pass on “good luck” to single women, while the garter toss had origins in proving a marriage was consummated (yikes!). Today, these traditions can feel awkward, outdated, or just plain unnecessary.
The Modern Take: Many couples are replacing the bouquet toss with a meaningful alternative, like gifting the bouquet to a loved one, honoring a couple who has been married the longest, or repurposing florals for donations. And the garter toss? Most couples are skipping it entirely.
5. Wedding Vows That Reinforce Traditional Gender Roles
The Tradition: Many traditional vows include phrases like “to obey” or “to serve,” which reflect outdated power dynamics that don’t align with modern relationships.
The Modern Take: Couples today are writing their own vows, ensuring that their promises are personal, meaningful, and reflective of their partnership. Whether heartfelt, humorous, or poetic, custom vows allow each couple to express their love in their own words.
Final Thoughts
Weddings should be about celebrating love in a way that feels right for you. If a tradition resonates, embrace it! But if something feels outdated or uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to make it your own—or leave it behind entirely. Your wedding should reflect your values, not outdated customs. So go ahead and create a day that’s as unique as your love story!