Every couple planning a wedding faces the same big question: Do we stick with tradition, or do we try something new? From bouquet tosses to first looks, today’s weddings are a mix of timeless rituals and modern trends. The beauty of planning your wedding is that you get to choose what feels right for you.

If you’re wondering which traditions to honor and which trends are worth embracing, here’s a guide to help you decide what to keep, tweak, or toss.

The Bouquet Toss

Tradition: The bride tosses her bouquet, and the catcher is “next to marry.”
Modern Shift: Many brides are skipping this moment to avoid singling people out—or they’re swapping it for a fun “couples dance-off” or “anniversary dance” where the longest-married couple gets the bouquet.
Verdict: Toss it if it feels awkward, tweak it if you want to make it inclusive.

Cutting the Cake

Tradition: The couple cuts the cake together, sometimes feeding (or smearing) it.
Modern Trend: Dessert bars, donut walls, cupcakes, or even ice cream trucks are replacing the formal cake moment.
Verdict: Keep the “sweet” tradition, but modernize it—serve whatever dessert you love and make it fun to share with guests.

The First Look

Tradition: The couple sees each other for the first time at the ceremony.
Modern Trend: A private “first look” before the ceremony allows couples to share an intimate moment—and get photos out of the way early.
Verdict: This one’s a keeper if you want extra time together. Skip it if you love the drama of seeing each other at the aisle.

The Reception Playlist

Tradition: A live band or DJ runs the show.
Modern Trend: Couples are creating Spotify playlists to curate their own vibe, sometimes mixing live performers with curated tracks.
Verdict: Keep the professional help (they keep the party flowing), but feel free to add your own must-play list.

The Engagement Ring

Tradition: A diamond ring as the symbol of engagement.
Modern Trend: Moissanite, sapphires, emeralds, and lab-grown diamonds are becoming more popular—and more budget-friendly.
Verdict: Keep the symbolism, but don’t be afraid to go unique with the stone, cut, or even ring style.

Speeches and Toasts

Tradition: Best man and maid of honor give speeches, along with parents.
Modern Trend: Open mic “mini-toasts,” video messages from faraway guests, or no speeches at all to keep things short and sweet.
Verdict: Keep heartfelt words, but feel free to slim it down so the dance floor doesn’t sit empty too long.

The Send-Off

Tradition: Rice throwing, sparklers, or a big dramatic getaway car.
Modern Trend: Eco-friendly confetti, bubbles, or even glow sticks for a fun night exit. Some couples skip it entirely if they’re staying on-site.
Verdict: Keep the fun, but tweak it to match your style (and your venue’s rules).

When it comes to wedding trends vs. traditions, there’s no right or wrong answer. Your wedding should reflect your personalities, your love story, and what feels meaningful to you. Keep the traditions that make your heart happy, embrace the trends that excite you, and skip the rest without guilt.

After all, the best weddings are the ones that feel authentically yours.

Wedding Trends vs. Traditions: Which Ones Should You Keep (and Which Ones to Skip)?