To coincide with the release of The Big Wedding Censuswide conducted a study into the habits of wedded couples. A huge 73% of Brits still want to see traditions being upheld at weddings, however, more men than women think wedding traditions are very important. More under 24s believe wedding traditions are important than any other age group at a huge 83% and the bride being given away is the most popular tradition with 80% agreeing.
Weddings on Female First
We talk Alexandra Merri from The Bijou Bride, about the changing face of traditions when it comes to weddings.
Why do you think that people still generally hold traditions fairly high on their list of priorities at a wedding?
‘Well you couldn't have a wedding without vows, although as with all the traditions I see more and more people choosing to customise and make the wedding musts their own.’
Why does there appear to be a gender divide?
‘Under 24s are those who most believe in traditions at weddings, so what could explain this age gap?
‘I think at that stage you're likely to have mostly been to family weddings, as you get older and have attended many a wedding you plot ways to make your day different.’
Why has the Bride being given away still the most popular tradition?
‘Can you imagine walking down the aisle on your own! It's frightening enough having everyone stare at you; you need someone to keep you steady, tell you jokes so you don't cry and just to share with you in that moment is something to be cherished. But that's not to say that it has to be a father figure, I've had brides walk down the aisle with their mum, best friend, child.’
What is the most unusual wedding that you have seen featured on your site?
‘They are all unusual in their own way, some of my favourites though - the bride and groom's band as the entertainment, a couple that spent their wedding night in their camper van, a bride that wore a black wedding dress and another that married in the Los Angeles National History Museum (made for great photos).’
Why is it fun to see couples deviate from the normal routine?
‘It's all about personality - the best weddings are those that feel authentic to the couple, their passions and beliefs.’
Why are other traditions like cutting the cake, something borrowed something blue hard to let go of?
‘A wedding is a family affair and those traditions are handed down through the generations. Your mother may have hung onto something especially for you so emotions are a big part of lasting traditions and the memories you hold dear after the celebrations are over. Although one tradition that has gone out of flavour is the groom removing the garter in front of the wedding party but you can understand why as fashions have changed.’
Do you think that we will ever leave the old traditions behind?
‘It is great that you have more freedom to really make your wedding unique but I don't think the much loved traditions such as cutting the cake are going anywhere. The format might change (i.e. exploding the cake instead of cutting it or choosing a non-traditional wedding cake, jelly anyone?) but the core idea and of course the photo opportunity is still there.’
thebijoubride.com
The Big Wedding is out now on DVD/Blu-ray.
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