Wedding Traditions That Are Fading in 2025.

Over the past few years, I've noticed a growing trend: couples are leaning towards simpler, more intentional weddings. They're tossing out old school traditions that no longer align with their vision, values, or vibe. Rituals like handfasting and sand ceremonies are becoming less common, as many couples feel they no longer add meaning to the moment. And honestly, I'm all for it. Shorter, more streamlined ceremonies mean guests aren't stuck sitting through lengthy proceedings, and the focus stays on what really matters.

Here are a few changes I have noticed…

🎂 The cake smash

This can go so wrong…. Luckily, I have noticed that the cake smash moment is losing its appeal in 2025. Many couples see it as cringey and outdated, especially when it ruins a $600 hair-and-makeup session. Instead, couples are opting for elegant, clean cake-cutting ceremonies—or creative dessert bars that don’t involve cake at all.

💃 The Garter Toss

I’ve always hated the garter toss. In fact, I think I was the only bride in the ’80s who skipped it entirely! Recently, I decided to dig a little deeper into the tradition, and what I found was fascinating. Traditionally, the garter toss symbolized good luck and fertility. This rather strange custom dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe, when wedding guests would actually try to grab a piece of the bride’s clothing as a token of good luck. To avoid being mobbed, brides started wearing a garter as a decoy, something symbolic they could toss to guests instead. It became a way to share a little “good fortune” without sacrificing the wedding dress!

Today modern couples find it unnecessary at best, and wildly uncomfortable at worst.

👰 Let’s take a look at the traditional wedding attire.

I am still seeing beautiful white wedding dress but I’m also seeing more beautiful, coloured dressing too. It seems that the dress code rulebook has been tossed. Brides are embracing colour, jumpsuits, capes, and even mini dresses. Grooms are going bold with non-traditional tailoring, prints, and even sneakers. 

📅 Friday is the new Saturday.

With venue availability, pricing, and guest schedules in mind, Fridays and even Thursdays are gaining popularity. Weekend weddings are no longer the only acceptable option. Midweek celebrations = better deals, longer weekends, and a more relaxed vibe.

💒 Huge Guest Lists

Big doesn’t always mean better.

I have also noticed that couples are saying goodbye to the 200+ guest extravaganza and hello to intimate gatherings. Micro-weddings and destination “I do’s” are in—focused on connection, not obligation. Think fewer forced plus-ones, more quality conversations.

🎤 Predictable Speeches & Rigid Schedules

I personally love speeches, maybe it’s because they’re usually hilarious, thanks to everyone being a little tipsy by the time they happen. But in 2025, the pressure packed lineup of speeches, toasts, and first dances is getting a much-needed refresh. Some couples are swapping formal speeches for spontaneous moments or even pre-recorded video messages. Others are ditching rigid timelines altogether, opting for a more relaxed, party-first vibe that keeps the energy flowing.

⛪ Church Ceremonies

Ceremonies are getting personal.

I recently received the latest statistics from Births, Deaths and Marriages and noticed a clear trend: church weddings are on the decline, with the majority of ceremonies now being conducted by civil celebrants. Unless faith plays a central role in the couple’s lives, many are choosing to forgo traditional church settings in favour of outdoor locations, intimate venues, or meaningful places like where they first met or their favourite vacation spot.

Well, we're still early into 2025, and I'm excited to see what the rest of the year has in store.