By Lesley Turner
Outdated wedding trends are sneaky. They slip into planning conversations like they have to be there – because that’s just how weddings have always been done. But 2025 couples aren’t here for cookie-cutter anything. They’re rewriting the rules, swapping age-old traditions for real moments, and making space for celebrations that feel bold, meaningful and full of life. So if a few old-school ideas are still hanging around on your mood board and timelines (because Grandma says they’re a must), it might be time for a gentle (or not-so-gentle) goodbye.
Weddings in 2025 are feeling lighter, more personal and way more intentional. It’s not about doing what’s always been done – it’s about doing what feels good. Whether you’re tossing old traditions or reworking them to suit your style, there’s something exciting about creating a day that actually reflects you. So go ahead. Say no to some (or all) of these outdated wedding trends and make space for ideas that make your heart skip a beat.
The receiving line
It’s not 1998 and no one’s lining up like it’s a meet-and-greet at the palace. The receiving line used to be the go-to way for thanking guests, but couples are finally acknowledging that it just feels stiff, awkward and kind of like waiting at the DMV in heels.
Your guests just witnessed a beautiful moment; they want to head to cocktail hour, not inch forward in a slow-moving queue for a quick handshake and a polite nod. There are better, more personal ways to connect, like circulating during dinner or throwing a champagne toast that makes people laugh and feel seen. Outdated wedding trends like this one? Not doing your day any favours.
Wedding favours
Unless they’re edible, don’t do it. Seriously. Those little trinkets might seem cute when you’re deep in the Pinterest rabbit hole, but how many guests actually take them home – and keep them?
Think about the last time you kept a mini jar of local honey or a monogrammed fridge magnet. Exactly. Most of the time, favours get left behind on tables or tossed in drawers to be forgotten.
Instead, spend that budget on something guests will actually use or remember. Maybe a surprise dessert table, a live artist painting your ceremony or a killer late-night snack bar. Now, we can’t imagine any of these becoming an outdated wedding trend.
Signature drinks
We all love a signature wedding drink. But when there’s one bartender and a signature cocktail that requires muddling, flaming and three kinds of bitters? The line starts wrapping around the tent, and guests end up abandoning their drinks altogether. Keep it simple, stylish and quick to pour. Your guests (and your bar staff) will thank you.
Matching everything
Same shade of blush on the bridesmaids, identical linens, carbon-copy floral arrangements at every table… it’s all a little too matchy-matchy. This isn’t a showroom – it’s your wedding! A little contrast, a pop of unexpected colour, or mixing textures can bring a space to life in a way that feels intentional and elevated.
Think bridesmaids in complementary tones or mismatched centrepieces that still feel cohesive. Matching wedding colours may be one of those outdated wedding trends that clings to tradition, but 2025 weddings are looking much more layered, dynamic and visually interesting. Let your creativity lead.
Too much plastic
Plastic cups, plastic cutlery, plastic confetti – weddings can be an environmental disaster if no one’s paying attention. And in 2025, sustainability isn’t a “bonus,” it’s an expectation. Gone are the days when single-use everything was considered the easy option. Ignoring the impact your wedding has on the environment has got to be one of the most outdated wedding trends of the year.
From compostable plates to rented glassware, there are so many better, beautiful alternatives that don’t involve bins overflowing with throwaway junk by midnight. Today’s couples are designing experiences that feel good and do good, making sustainability a priority.
The garter toss
Cue the cringes! This one’s more uncomfortable than entertaining. Watching someone crawl under a wedding dress in front of Grandma? Hard pass. The garter toss can feel out of place at best and wildly awkward at worst. It doesn’t match the vibe of modern weddings that are all about joy, comfort and being surrounded by people you love. Trust us, you don’t want to make your guests squirm in their seats.
Same-old cocktail hour food
Your wedding cocktail hour should be buzzing – not just with people but with flavour. So, if your menu looks like it came from a corporate luncheon, it’s time for a glow-up. Guests are ready for something bold, maybe even unexpected. Mini chicken and waffles, gourmet sliders, street taco stations – yes, please!
No one remembers the cheese cube tower, but they’ll rave about those bite-sized banh mi sandwiches or fresh sushi rolls made to order. Outdated wedding trends like serving bland hors d’oeuvres are slowly fading, and in their place? A chance to tell your story through food that actually excites people.
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