Weddings traditions: Out with the selfies and seating plans, but in with the dress and suit
London, 1 July, 2019 – For brits, it appears traditions rule when it comes to the big day. New American Express research found that wedding guests value traditions at ceremonies.
- 36% think the father of the bride walking the bride down the aisle is the most important wedding tradition
- Interestingly, just under a quarter (23%) of 18-34 year olds agree compared to 46% of those aged 55+
- Dress and style are also important: 29% think the groom should wear a suit and 26% think the bride should wear a white dress
- However, only one in 10 (10%) think a formal seating plan is important, suggesting that when it comes to food, guests love to mingle
- In the age of social media sharing, it appears some want to keep the big day private. In the last year, 8% of guests have been to a wedding with a social media ban
- For wedding guests, enjoying the day in the company of their loved ones is really important – 15% of guests would not attend a wedding if their ‘plus one’ wasn’t allowed, and 12% would not go if their children were not invited
American Express offers top tips to brides and grooms-to-be on how to keep everyone happy on your big day – including your finances.
- Shop on the high street: Affordable bridal wear is the new big thing with many high street chains now offering bridal wear collections. The high street often has cheaper alternatives for many key wedding purchases including the groom’s suit, bridesmaid’s dresses, shoes and the wedding cake.
- Couple’s Cashback: Put your wedding costs on a card that earns you rewards and cashback for spending. This way you will be able to save up for a special treat when you celebrate your first year of wedded bliss.
- Bring your own band: Although music is essential to any wedding reception, create your own playlist instead of hiring an expensive band. You can even ask your guests for their music contributions to keep the party going all evening long.
- Friday funday: Saturdays are the most expensive day to tie the knot, so why not consider a Friday? If you’re wed to a Saturday wedding consider getting married in a morning or have an early evening ceremony which can be cheaper than their traditional afternoon counterparts.
- Keep guest numbers low: Guest numbers soon add up and it can be hard to keep everyone happy. Keeping numbers low may involve some awkward conversations with distant relatives, however most will understand the costs involved in weddings.