10 Wedding Traditions It's Totally OK to Skip (And What to Do Instead)

Wedding planning can be a tug-of-war between timeless traditions and what you actually want as a couple. Here's a secret: it's your day, and you don't have to do anything just because "it's always been done that way."

In fact, some of the most memorable weddings are the ones that break the rules. If you're feeling pressured to include traditions that don't feel like you, here are 10 you can officially skip—guilt-free.

1. The Garter Toss

Let's just start with the obvious one. For many modern couples (and their guests), this tradition feels a bit public and... weird. What to do instead: Skip it! No one will miss it. If you want to toss something, have a "singles toss" where you throw a bouquet and a "boutonniere bundle" at the same time to everyone, not just single women or men.

2. The Traditional Wedding Cake

Not a cake person? Don't have a cake. The three-tiered white cake is a classic, but it's also expensive.

What to do instead: A dessert bar! Think donuts, cookies, mini pies, macarons, or even a build-your-own s'mores station. It's more personal, more fun, and often more affordable.

3. The Big, Uniform Wedding Party

Coordinating 10 people in matching outfits is a lot of work (and expense).

What to do instead: Keep it simple. Have just a Maid of Honor and Best Man. Or, skip the formal wedding party altogether and have your siblings or best friends sit in the front row.

4. Not Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony

This "bad luck" superstition is fading fast. Why? Because a "first look" is one of the best decisions you can make.

What to do instead: A private "first look." It's an intimate, emotional moment just for the two of you. Plus, you get to take most of your photos before the ceremony, which means you can actually go to your own cocktail hour.

5. The Assigned Seating Chart

While a good idea for a formal dinner, a complex "who-sits-where" chart can be a nightmare to plan.

What to do instead: Opt for "open seating." Or, do a hybrid: assign tables, but let guests choose their own seats at that table. This works perfectly for more casual dinners like buffets or food trucks.

6. The Traditional Guest Book

A lovely idea, but let's be honest: when was the last time you looked at it?

What to do instead: Choose something you'll actually display. Have guests sign a globe, a custom cornhole set, a wooden bench, or Jenga blocks with well-wishes.

7. Giving Away the Bride

This tradition is a bit old-fashioned for some.

What to do instead: Have both parents walk you down the aisle. Or, walk down the aisle together as a couple.

8. The Limousine

A limo is classic, but it's not the only way to arrive or leave.

What to do instead: Make your transportation part of your story. Leave in a vintage car, on a tandem bicycle, or—if your venue is cool enough—make a grand entrance in a helicopter.

9. Wearing a White Dress (or a Dress at All)

The white dress is iconic, but it's not a requirement.

What to do instead: Wear what makes you feel amazing. A chic jumpsuit, a blush-colored gown, a floral-print dress, or a sharp suit. Your wedding, your style.

10. The Bouquet Toss

Like the garter toss, this can feel a bit awkward for some guests.

What to do instead: Don't toss it at all. Or, have an "anniversary dance" where all married couples dance, and the DJ asks people to leave the floor based on how long they've been married, until only the longest-married couple remains—then give them the bouquet.

P.S. Ready to break tradition and create new, fun ones? If you're an Idaho couple, imagine skipping the limo for a helicopter entrance or adding a bounce house to your reception. At Vertical Venues, we're all about making your day 100% you.