10 Wedding Traditions That Make You Go ‘Ugh’

Weddings are supposed to be the happiest day of your life, but some traditions can really bring the mood down. It’s hard to enjoy the moment when you’re stuck with outdated customs that don’t seem to serve any purpose. So, let’s look at the ten most annoying wedding traditions that might make you rethink the “big day” norms.

The Expensive Bridal Gown

The pressure to buy a dress that costs more than your monthly rent is real. It’s not uncommon for brides to splurge thousands on a gown they’ll wear only once, and let’s face it, the “something new” tradition feels like a money trap. While the dress may look stunning, the price tag leaves brides regretting the decision.

Throwing The Bouquet

Sure, it’s a fun tradition, but let’s be honest—it’s also a little cringe-worthy. Women scrambling to catch a bouquet like they’re trying to win a sports competition isn’t as charming as it seems. Plus, the “catch the bouquet, and you’re next” pressure can make some guests downright uncomfortable.

The Reception Grand Entrance

When the couple has to march in with elaborate choreography or forced enthusiasm, it feels awkward. The idea of dancing down the aisle for what seems like an eternity doesn’t always translate to the romance you’re hoping for, making it more about the performance than the celebration.

The “Father-Daughter” Dance

While the father-daughter dance might be sentimental for some, it can be uncomfortable for others. Not everyone has the ideal relationship with their father, and forcing a dance in front of an audience can create a tense situation. Plus, it’s often a drawn-out moment that leaves everyone standing there waiting for it to be over.

Asking For A Dowry Or Wedding Gifts

No one needs to be reminded of the days when weddings were treated like property transfers. Yet, some traditions still encourage asking guests to provide hefty gifts or contribute to the cost of the wedding. The idea of guests feeling obligated to spend excessive amounts can feel more like a burden than a joy.

The Wedding Toasts

While toasts can be a sweet and heartfelt moment, they can also be long-winded and awkward. Most guests end up tuning out after the first few minutes, especially when someone decides to share their unsolicited life story. By the time the toast is over, no one’s sure what they were supposed to take away from it.

“Giving Away” Of The Bride

The idea of the bride walking down the aisle accompanied by her father is a tradition rooted in symbolism. However, it’s become more of a routine than anything meaningful for many couples today. Some brides don’t feel the need for the formal procession, but that doesn’t stop wedding planners from insisting on it.

The Cake Cutting Ceremony

Cutting the cake is one of the most photographed moments of a wedding. The couple stands there with a giant knife, posing for photos, then feeds each other a bite of cake like they’re in some romance movie. The problem? It doesn’t always feel genuine, especially when it’s forced for the sake of tradition.

The Garter Toss

If you’ve ever seen a garter toss, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Forcing the groom to retrieve a garter from beneath the bride’s dress in front of a crowd of guests can be awkward for all involved. It’s an outdated and strange tradition that seems more fitting for a bachelor party than a wedding reception.

The “Something Borrowed, Something Blue”

While this old tradition may seem cute in theory, it ends up feeling like an unnecessary checklist. Sure, “something blue” could be a fun way to add color to your wedding ensemble, but hunting down that perfect item can become a stressful task. It’s just one more tradition that you don’t need to obsess over.