Why Certain Wedding Traditions are Pointless and Should be Revisited

Weddings are supposed to be joyous occasions that celebrate love and commitment. However, many traditional wedding customs can muddy that joy with outdated and often inconsiderate practices. These customs, while deeply ingrained in culture, can be harmful and unnecessary. Let's explore some of these traditions that serve little purpose and discuss why it's time to rethink them.

The Garter Toss: A Gross and Sexist Tradition

One of the most disturbing and unsavory traditions is the garter toss. Often seen as a fun and entertaining way for guests to engage in raucous behavior, this practice is rooted in misguided gender norms and can be quite upsetting to many. Guests often chase the newlyweds around, and there is a high risk of unwanted physical contact and harassment. The garter toss is a relic of a bygone era that deserves to be discarded. It's high time we take a stand against such sexist and gross behavior and move towards a more dignified and respectful celebration of love.

The Bouquet Toss: A Gross and Inconsiderate Tradition

Another tradition that ticks all the wrong boxes is the bouquet toss. In this disrespectful practice, the bride is pelted with an object she has held, ostensibly throwing away her "virginity." This act not only encourages objectification but also perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes. Instead of encouraging the idea that a woman's worth is tied to her marital status, we should celebrate her incredible strength, intelligence, and love. It's time for us to rethink this tradition and find more inclusive, respectful ways to celebrate the start of a couple's journey.

A Pointless Expenditure: The Wedding Cake

Wedding cakes are often seen as an object of beauty and craftsmanship, but in reality, they are mostly decorative and not meant to be consumed. The cost of these elaborate cakes can be excessive and wasteful. In many cases, the cake is just for show, and much of it ends up being discarded. Instead, consider simpler alternatives such as shared desserts or mini-cakes that can be enjoyed by all guests. A more frugal and environmentally-friendly option would not only make a statement of sustainability but also demonstrate a value for the environment and responsible spending.

Loading the Question(s): The "L Do" Question

The question "L do you take [spouse] to be [ spouse]? " during the ceremony is not only overused but also potentially harmful. Many marriages end in failure, and asking this question during a solemn and joyous occasion can be seen as overly presumptuous. It's important to remember that marriage is a lifelong commitment, and while it's a beautiful tradition to express love and commitment, the reality is far more complex and nuanced. Instead of checking off boxes, we should focus on meaningful and heartfelt expressions of affection and support.

Moving Beyond Superstitions and Discrimination

It's crucial to ensure that weddings and their associated traditions do not perpetuate harmful norms or discriminate based on gender, religion, or any other protected characteristic. While traditions can provide a sense of heritage and continuity, they must not be demeaning, derogatory, or violating. Additionally, traditions should not be bound by superstitions or outdated beliefs. As our understanding of the world evolves, so should our traditions. If a custom does not serve a positive and inclusive purpose for all involved, it is time to reconsider its place in modern weddings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, many traditional wedding customs are outdated, harmful, or unnecessary. It's time for couples to consider revisiting these practices and seeking more meaningful and respectful ways to celebrate their love. By doing so, we can ensure that weddings are joyous and inclusive celebrations that honor all the guests and the couple's wishes. Let's move beyond tradition and into a new era of love and respect.