I’ve notice in the last few years, couples have been embracing change more than ever when planning their wedding. Traditions that once seemed essential are now optional as brides and grooms choose to make their big day more personal, relaxed, and unique. Here are some of the shifts in weddings that I've seen:

1. Shorter Photography Packages

Gone are the days when a photographer was expected to document every single moment from early morning preparations to the last dance. Many couples now opt for a shorter photography package, capturing only the most significant moments without feeling overwhelmed by an all-day photoshoot. I can easily cover the ceremony, some group photos, couples’ portraits in two hours and probably still have time for a bit of documentary/candid photography of your reception and guests.

2. Wearing What You Want

Brides and grooms are ditching traditional attire in favor of outfits that truly reflect their personal style. Dresses have become shorter, more colorful, or patterned, or even replaced with a jumpsuit. Black three piece suits have been replaced with different colour suits and the ties have been ditched. Couples are focusing on comfort and self-expression. The same goes for footwear - high heels and stiff black shoes are no longer the only options. Since you'll be wearing them all day, why not choose something comfortable and something you can enjoy wearing again after your wedding?

3. Mismatched Bridesmaids Dresses

Instead of coordinating in identical gowns, bridesmaids are now wearing dresses in different styles, colours, and fabrics that suit their individual styles and personalities. This creates a more natural, visually interesting look and allows each person to feel happy and confident in what they are wearing. This of course can go for the groomsmen too. And I’m sure I don’t need to say that your Bride Tribe or Groom’s Dudes (is that a thing? Have I just made that saying up?!) no longer has to be the same sex.

4. Walking (or Dancing) Yourself Down the Aisle

More brides and grooms are choosing to forgo the traditional ‘giving away’ moment and are instead walking, or even dancing, down the aisle solo or with a partner, or partners, of their choice.

5. Alternative Wedding Cakes

Wedding cakes are no longer limited to tiers of sponge and icing. Couples are opting for creative alternatives like doughnut towers, cupcakes, or even going down the savoury route and have a cake of cheese!

6. Ditching the Sit-Down Meal

Some weddings are moving away from the traditional sit down three courses in favour of a more relaxed meal. Buffets, grazing tables, food trucks or picnic hampers all allow the couple and their guests more choice on what to eat - hopefully there will be something for everyone. And who wouldn’t love an ice cream truck for pudding?!

7. Alternatives to Fresh Flowers

Fresh flowers are beautiful but can be costly. If you still want to have fresh flowers to decorate your venue then choose a design that is portable so you can have it in the ceremony and then in the reception room. Or you could opt just to have fresh flowers bouquets and buttonholes and use alternative ideas for the decor such as potted plants, dried flowers, candles or books adding a personal and eco-friendly touch.

8. Including Pets in the Celebration

For many, pets are family and are being involved in weddings more and more. Most of the time it will be dogs that make it to the wedding day (can’t see my cat walking down the aisle in a flowered collar!) but you can have photos of your pets, your pets as drink or cake toppers or even the cake itself modelled on your furry friend! If you can’t include you pet in your wedding day you can always do a photoshoot with them afterwards in a place where they will be more comfortable.

Today's weddings are all about authenticity and personal expression. Whether you choose to follow every tradition or break them all, what matters is celebrating in a way that feels right for you.

Breaking traditions and making your own