10 Wedding Rules You Should Break

Wedding Ideas

It’s no secret that weddings embody tons of traditions; Some of them are sweetly irreplaceable (Here comes the bride!) and others are–let’s just say–tired.

Since New Jersey brides are always thinking of new fun ways to be unique, we were inspired to start this list of wedding rules that you don’t REALLY have to follow at all.

Theia “Leia” Blue Gown

1. You must wear a white dress. Who says you can’t stand out in a color other than white? Tons of huge fashion designers like Theia, Monique Lhuillier and Reem Acra are all introducing color into their spring bridal collections. Pale pinks. soft purples and powdery blues (like this “Leia” gown above) are striking and elegant. Dare to be different!

Lauren Kearns Photography

2. Your groom can’t see you before the ceremony. While it might be a romantic surprise for your groom to literally meet you at the altar, having a first look on the morning of the wedding can be just as unforgettable–and yield some seriously gorgeous pictures! Consider visiting a park, garden or even your own home for a one-on-one moment with your soon to be groom.

Sareh Nouri “Grace” Gown

3. You need to wear a veil. We love veils. They’re elegant, timeless, and can be crafted to fit any bride’s personal style. That being said, if your personal wedding style doesn’t include a veil–don’t wear one! We’re madly in love with all the hair accessories circulating in the bridal market these days…be sure you take a look!

Jeff Tisman Photography

4. You have to wear high heeled shoes. Says who? There’s nothing wrong with rocking a pair of flats on your big day, if that’s what you’ll be the most comfortable in. These stunners are by Benjamin Adams.

Brian Delia Photography

5. You must have an open bar. Open bars are not for everyone. For one, they’re expensive, and if your wedding guests aren’t the type to utilize it for all it’s worth, it may be a bad choice. Instead, talk with your venue about a limited bar–filled with just wine and beer or select spirits–or serving an ultra cool signature drink of your choosing. Martini bar? Yes please!

Styled Pink Photography

6. You have to invite the kids. Despite what your opinionated in-laws might think, there’s nothing wrong with having an adult-only wedding. They key is to give your guests enough notice to arrange for babysitters and the like. And most importantly, don’t back down. If pesky guests call with complaints, tell them kindly that it’s a non negotiable.

The Markows Photography

7. Your bridesmaids must be in matching dresses. Bridesmaids dresses don’t have to be uniform or even color coded at all. Lots of brides have adapted a more relaxed approach to dress shopping–allowing their ‘maids to arrive in the dress of their choosing! If you ask us, it’s pretty rad, not to mention considerate of the bride for putting her girls’ personal comfort first! If this approach isn’t for you, consider having your maids wear the same color, with little variations in the dress styles (one halter-top, one strapless, etc.)

Shannen Norman Photography

8. You have to serve a wedding cake. Let them eat cake! Or don’t. There are millions of delicious dessert creations in the world. Don’t limit yourself to butter cream and custard if you don’t want to. May we suggest an irresistible doughnut bar?

Jeff Tisman Photography

9. Your family must fund the wedding. In today’s world, it’s not entirely up to the bride’s family to finance the wedding. Depending on your personal budget, talk with your family and groom about your options. Listen. Negotiate. Understand that if you require a super fabulous event, it may have to come out of your pocket.

10. You have to have a receiving line. Yes, it’s traditional to personally thank each of your guests for attending. But remember, you probably have allotted time for mingling and table-hopping during your reception, not to mention the goodbyes and thank you cards to come. No one will hate you for not standing on a receiving line for hours on end; Think of it as time better spent on the dance floor!