Let’s talk about wedding traditions your guests will expect to see at your wedding. Do they align with your own vision for your wedding?
We all know that weddings today can be what you want them to be. Gone are the days where you have to do certain traditions. Couples now have the freedom to pick and choose what works for them at their wedding. This means that they can keep certain traditions alive, while others are skipped. And while this is awesome for couples, it’s important to understand what it all means for the guest experience.
Enter wedding traditions your guests will expect to see at your wedding. What are guests looking forward to? What will they be disappointed if they don’t get to experience? Which customs really add magic to the big day, and what will be missed? Whether you’re planning a traditional wedding or a contemporary celebration, it’s important for you to be aware of wedding traditions your guests will expect to see at your wedding, if only to be ready when they bring up their opinions later on.
9 Wedding Traditions Guests Will Expect To See
This post is going to share nine wedding traditions your guests will expect to see at your wedding. I am not going to tell any couple getting engaged that they have to include these traditions in their wedding, just because their guests enjoy them. Not at all. You do you, and plan your wedding, your way. However, a little compassion or creativity can go a long way if you omit some tried-and-true traditional favorites. Consider replacing a skipped tradition with something else, or putting your own spin on it. Or, level set expectations early on by letting guests know that they will be going to a non-traditional wedding. It will all work out.
Let’s get into it!
1. THE WALK DOWN THE AISLE
One of the most iconic moments of any wedding is when the bride walks down the aisle. Guests eagerly anticipate this grand entrance, which symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter.
If you aren’t that kind of bride (or not a bride at all), or feel like this tradition isn’t for you, that’s okay. You can modernize this tradition by entering with your fiance, or having some creative choreography kick off your ceremony (ala Jim and Pam’s wedding in The Office).
That said, if you go the traditional route with walking down the aisle, I have some tips for you. For starters, choose a meaningful song to enter in. Also, include your parents, grandparents, and other loved ones in your processional. And, if possible, make it dramatic. Keep yourself hidden before the big moment so your guests are truly surprised when they see you. It’s more fun that way.
2. THE EXCHANGE OF VOWS
I don’t know about you, but I love watching two people exchange vows.
If I went to a wedding, and there were no vows, it would be fairly disappointing and not really feel like a wedding to me. Wedding vows are just one of those wedding traditions your guests will expect to see at your wedding. We love hearing the words of love, commitment, and personal promises.
That said, if you are on the fence about exchanging vows at your wedding, I have some words of advice for you. First is that personal vows, that you write yourself, are always a beautiful way to share your love story and values. Also, it’s okay to incorporate traditional elements like “for better or for worse”. And, if you’re nervous about saying vows, all you really need to is practice. You can also ask your officiant to say the vows for you.
If you need more tips, check out my free wedding vow guide.
3. THE RING EXCHANGE
The exchange of wedding rings is a symbol of eternal love and commitment. Guests often look forward to this ritual as a significant part of a wedding ceremony.
Some traditional elements may include having a ring bearer carry the ring, doing a ring blessing, or even personalizing your rings. It’s okay to pick and choose what works best for you. And, in some cases, you may not exchange rings, instead opting to exchange something else. The point is that guests will likely expect some sort of swap, exchange, or gifting between the two of you.
4. THE FIRST KISS AS A MARRIED COUPLE
Do you love a first kiss? I do! And though the thought of kissing in front of all their loved ones may initially seem daunting and embarrassing among some engaged people, it’s really not that bad.
The first kiss is a joyful and celebratory wedding tradition that officially seals the union between two people. It’s typically followed by applause and cheers from excited guests. It really is expected, and though you can have a private first kiss, if you are having a somewhat traditional American wedding, I suggest you go for it. Practice ahead of time, keep it rated PG, and make sure your photographer is ready to capture the moment. I promise you won’t regret it.
5. THE RECESSIONAL
A wedding recessional is when the couple leaves their wedding ceremony. If it’s possible to have a wedding ceremony that includes a processional, but no recessional, I’d love to know the logistics of that.
During a recessional, the couples, and their guests, are lively and excited. And while there are variations for recessionals, you may want to enhance the tradition in a few ways. For example, choose a song that sets a celebratory tone. Consider having guests toss petals or blow bubbles as you walk out. Pause halfway down the aisle for a photo opportunity. Make it fun and enjoy the amazing moment.
6. THE FIRST DANCE
Dancing is among the more common wedding traditions guests expect to see at most American weddings. This includes the couple dancing with family, dancing for fun, and dancing with each other.
For many, the first dance is a highlight of the wedding reception. Guests gather around to witness this intimate and romantic moment, and it’s really special to witness. Some general tips for your first dance are to choose a song that is meaningful to you both, to practice, and to have fun. If you want more details, check out this post on first dances.
7. THE PARENT DANCES
If you are close with your parents, chances are guests are looking forward to you having a heartfelt dance with them. Usually this is in the form of a son and mother dance, or a father and daughter dance.
Now, not every wedding will have these dances, for many reasons. Whether you’re sticking to tradition, or mixing it up, it’s okay to do what works for you. Some couples choose to dance with siblings, mentors, or other significant figures. Some may skip this tradition altogether. Either way, if you have these sort of “one on one” dances, they will likely bring smiles, laughter, and even happy tears from your guests.
8. THE TOASTS AND SPEECHES
Tasteful, and appropriately timed, toasts and speeches are often cherished parts of wedding receptions. Guests love hearing heartfelt stories, humor, and well-wishes from close friends and family.
And while yes, sometimes this wedding tradition can go haywire, if the speakers are mindful, toasts and speeches can be amazing. The key is to keep them to less than five minutes, have them written out, practiced, and planned, and for them to include some personal anecdotes and memories.
9. THE GRAND EXIT
Yes, exits are a wedding traditions your guests will expect to see at your wedding. They are a finality to the wedding, so to speak. And it’s fun to send the newlyweds off in style.
For example, some newlyweds have guests hold out sparklers while they run through the crowd. This provides photo opts, and is pretty easy to coordinate. Other couples may ask guests to gather around for a last dance, have a last “shot” before the end of the wedding, or do some sort of performance to finalize the evening. Some couples may even take off in a classic getaway car or other mode of transportation. No matter what, guests love being a part of this joyful and celebratory farewell.
THOUGHTS ON WEDDING TRADITIONS GUESTS EXPECT TO SEE
Friends, there are lots of wedding traditions guests expect to see. If they speak to you and your fiancé, have fun with them. Traditions are a beautiful way to connect with guests and create lasting memories. Don’t skip the ones that are meaningful to you. And, if needed, modify them to fit your wedding vision. Craft a wedding celebration that honors the past while embracing your unique love story. Happy wedding planning!
More On Wedding Traditions From Hummingbird Wedding Advice
The Most Controversial Wedding Traditions
Why It’s Okay To Skip Having Bridesmaids At Your Wedding
How To Have A Private Vows Ceremony With Your Fiance
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