There’s so much to think about when it comes to wedding planning, and it seems like everyone has unsolicited advice to share.
The list of “dos” and “don’ts” gets longer and longer, and soon you’re left wondering if there’s anything you’re actually allowed to do, or if everything is considered “bad luck” or “bad etiquette.” The good news is, a lot of the wedding “no-nos” you hear about are rooted in superstition or are based on outdated traditions. Here are some you can feel free to ditch!
Rings: The Sofia, The Bourbon
You Can’t See Each Other Before the Wedding
Perhaps the most famous wedding “don’t” is the groom seeing the bride before the wedding. This is a tradition rooted in the past, when arranged marriages were more common and the worry was that if the groom saw the bride before the wedding and didn’t care for her appearance, he could call it off. Luckily, you and your future spouse already know everything you need to know about one another! Instead of following an old and outdated tradition, set aside time for a special moment when he gets the first glimpse away from the eyes of your guests.
Your Dress Has to Be White
This tradition has started to fall to the wayside recently as more adventurous brides branch out and change the norm. The prevailing opinion, however, is that wedding dresses need to be white. Before Queen Victoria set the trend for white dresses, brides wore whatever dress color looked the best on them. White fabric was not only expensive, but impractical since it easily showed stains. When new, cheaper fabrics were created, white dresses became more common. Still, there’s no rule that says you have to do what other brides do! Find a dress that fits who you are, whether it’s white, blue, pink, or black.
You Shouldn’t Wear Pearls
Another superstition says that you shouldn’t wear pearls on your wedding day because pearls symbolize tears. But pearls are classic! They’re a simple, elegant way to elevate your entire wedding wardrobe, and if you want to wear pearls, don’t let anything stop you. You can wear a pear necklace, earrings, or even a bracelet. Find out if anyone in your family has pearls they want to pass down or lend to you for your something old or something borrowed!
Earrings: The Ariel
Bridesmaids Dresses Should Match
When it comes to the aesthetics of your wedding, the only person who knows what you want best is you. If you want a uniform look, you’ll likely choose to put your bridesmaids in matching dresses. If you’re more carefree or want a less formal look to your wedding day, you might let them choose the style that suits them. Either way, it’s up to you!
Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties Have to Be Kept Separate
There is some logic to this one, but it’s still not an absolute rule. Traditionally, the bride and groom will have separate bachelor and bachelorette parties, their “last night out” with friends. If wedding planning has cut down on bonding time, it makes sense to devote time to just your gal pals or let the groom have a guy’s night. But what if your friend group overlaps, or you don’t feel the need to celebrate separately? There’s nothing wrong with a joint bachelor/bachelorette party, especially if the goal is to enjoy time with friends!
Not Wearing a Veil is Bad Luck
Veils have their origins in fears of evil spirits who are jealous of a bride’s happiness. Legend has it that wearing a veil protected the bride from those spirits, and over time that fear turned into superstition and the notion that no veil equals bad luck. Unless you have lingering fears about evil spirits, you don’t have to wear a veil! Some brides are trading out veils for flower crowns, tiaras, hair combs, and fascinators. Do what feels right for you!
You Should Spend 2 Months Salary on the Ring (or Rings)
The “rules” that govern how much to spend on rings are seriously in need of a tune up. The popular opinion is that grooms should spend the equivalent of two months of their salary on an engagement ring, and the same rule applies to wedding bands. The exorbitant cost of diamond rings makes even a two month salary seem too little. Add up the engagement ring, plus wedding bands for him and her, and you’re looking at a good chunk of your wedding budget on rings alone. It’s time to change that! Instead of skimping on other parts of the wedding or heading into marriage with a slim bank account, choose less expensive (but just as good looking) rings from Modern Gents. We have engagement rings to suit every style and wedding bands that don’t cost a fortune. Write your own rules when it comes to buying the rings, and you’ll not only save money, you’ll feel much more comfortable with your decision. Shop the full collection here!
