Not every couple dreams of a cookie-cutter wedding. While traditional elements still hold a special place, more and more couples are swapping them out for something that feels more them. From ditching the cake-cutting or rethinking the aisle walk, there are lots of ways to reimagine a few of those classic moments.

Rethinking the Ceremony

The Aisle Walk

The classic walk down the aisle with a parent comes from a time when weddings were more of a “handover” than a partnership. These days, couples are making it more inclusive — or skipping the symbolism altogether.

• Walk together as a couple
• Enter from opposite sides and meet in the middle
• Walk with both parents, or a close friend
• No aisle at all — circular seating, or informal garden layouts

It still creates a moment, just one that feels more aligned with your dynamic.

Unity Ceremonies

The idea of a “unity” ritual started in the US and is becoming more of a ‘thing over here.A great alternative for non-religious or personalised ceremonies.

Some creative ideas:

• Plant a tree together to symbolise shared growth
• Mix a cocktail with ingredients that represent you both
• Seal a time capsule to open on a future anniversary
• Create a joint artwork, like a painted canvas or combined print

It's a lovely way to symbolise togetherness — minus the formality.

Reception Moments ... with a Twist

The First Dance

Traditionally the couple’s first dance opens the floor — as was the tradition in formal ballroom customs -we;re thinking Bridgertine here! But not everyone wants the spotlight or the choreography stress!

Alternatives:

• Dance with your whole wedding party
• Enter the reception with a fun group walk-in instead
• Swap the dance entirely for a joint toast, mini performance, or even a group karaoke number! [We’re loving this!]

Cake Cutting

This sweet tradition comes from ancient Rome, when cake (or bread) symbolised prosperity and fertility. These days, it’s more of a photo op than it is linked to any rituals.

Options to consider:

• Donut walls, gelato carts or a table of desserts
• Cheese stack instead of sponge
• Pancake towers, mini pavlovas, or skipping the big “cut” altogether

Serve whatever you love, and make it easy to eat on the move.

Guestbooks

Guestbooks go back centuries, originally used to record witnesses at formal events. These days, they’re more of a keepsake — but that doesn’t mean they need to be a plain notebook.

Fresh takes:

• Polaroid guestboards with selfies and scribbled notes
• Audio guestbooks, using old phones or apps
• Message in a bottle or handwritten postcards
• Prompt cards (“Best advice?”, “Funniest memory?”, “Where should we go next?”)

You’ll get more personality — and probably more laughs — when guests are given a fun format.

Personal Touches with a New Take on Tradition

Bridal Party Setup

The classic bridesmaids and groomsmen split has roots in religious and military history — and let’s be honest, it’s not for everyone.

Some modern twists:

• Mixed-gender wedding parties
• No matching dresses or suits, just a coordinated vibe
• No standing in formation — just enjoying the day as friends

Speeches & Toasts

Traditional speeches follow a set format: father of the bride, groom, best man. But that order isn’t fixed — and doesn’t reflect every couple.

Newer ideas:

• Joint couple speech
• Open mic moments from guests
• Pre-recorded videos from people who can’t attend
• Written notes at each place setting

Entrances & Send-Offs

Traditionally, couples make a grand entrance and then leave under a shower of rice or confetti. But here’s some other ideas … 

• Confetti cannons, bubble machines, or ribbon wands
• Arriving by bike, scooter or something unexpected
• Ending with a silent disco, nightcap bar, or sparkler walkout

Do It Your Way

Traditions, of course, have meaning — but they’re not mandatory. Weddings have always evolved with the times, and there’s no rulebook that says you have to include things that don’t resonate with you as a couple. Whether it’s skipping the bouquet toss, rethinking the ceremony structure or swapping cake for cookies, your day should reflect you — not a template.

So if you're planning a wedding that bends the rules a bit, go for it. Just make sure you’ve got a good playlist, the right people around you — and maybe a solid wedding insurance policy, just in case your donut wall takes a tumble.