Planning a wedding in the UK? Then you’ve likely stumbled upon phrases like “something blue”, confetti cannons, or ceilidh dances that sound like they’re straight out of a Jane Austen novel. But wait—what do these traditions actually mean today? Which ones should you keep, skip, or reinvent?
Here’s the ultimate, slightly cheeky, and truly helpful guide to British wedding traditions, how they’re evolving, and why they still matter (with a modern twist).
What Are the Most Iconic UK Wedding Traditions?
1. Something Old, Something New…
Let’s start with the OG of wedding rhymes:
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue… and a sixpence in your shoe.”
Still loved? Absolutely. Still practical? Sort of.
While the sixpence part may be trickier to source (unless you raid your gran’s coin collection), the rest is all about symbolism. Brides today often wear vintage jewelry (“something old”), new shoes (because, of course), a borrowed veil from a bestie, and maybe a splash of blue on their garter or bouquet ribbon. Sentiment with a side of style? Yes, please.
2. The Top Table Tradition
The Brits love a good seating plan, and the “top table” is a classic setup for close family and the wedding party. But don’t feel boxed in—modern couples are mixing it up with sweetheart tables, round-table layouts, or even rotating seats between courses to mingle with guests.
💡 Pro tip: Want a twist? Arrange a U-shaped table setup and let the celebration feel like one big family dinner.
3. Confetti Showers & Eco-Friendly Petals
Throwing confetti as the newlyweds exit the ceremony is peak British wedding energy. But times are changing. Many venues now require biodegradable confetti (and trust us, dried petals are just as Instagram-worthy).
Some venues even offer pre-packed cones filled with petals—like the dreamy Elmore Court in Gloucestershire, a restored manor that blends tradition and sustainability.
4. Wedding Speeches: Funny, Touching, and Totally British
British wedding speeches have an unspoken pressure to be hilarious. It’s not just about saying nice things—it’s about roasting the groom, retelling childhood blunders, and ending with heartfelt advice.
Traditionally, the speech lineup goes:
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Father of the bride
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Groom
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Best man
But hey, 2025 weddings are about breaking the rules. Brides are speaking up, bridesmaids are sharing toasts, and even mums are having their mic-drop moments. Yes, tears and belly-laughs included.
5. Cutting the Cake (and Keeping the Top Tier?)
Historically, the British wedding cake was a rich, boozy fruitcake with three tiers—one for the wedding, one for guests to take home, and one to save for the christening of the first child (no pressure, right?).
Today? Naked cakes, lemon drizzle, Victoria sponge, and even croquembouche towers have entered the chat.
But the tradition of cutting the cake together and making that first sweet slice is still totally a thing. Some couples even freeze the top tier for their first anniversary instead.
6. Ceilidhs, First Dances & Dance Floor Drama
Ah, the first dance. Some couples keep it sweet and slow, while others surprise their guests with full-blown choreography (bonus points if the bridal party joins in mid-way). In Scotland? You might be invited to a ceilidh – a lively traditional dance that’s as fun as it is energetic (and great cardio).
Whatever your vibe, make sure your photographer captures that glorious, slightly chaotic magic on the dance floor.
7. The Wedding Exit: Buses, Boats & Vintage Cars
Forget limos. UK couples are making epic exits in:
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Vintage cars (think Rolls-Royce elegance),
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Classic red double-decker buses for guests (London Retro Bus Hire),
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Even canal boats or tractors, depending on the venue vibe.
It’s all about the finale. If you’re leaving the party, make it stylish—or sparkly, with sparklers lighting the way.
Modern Twists on British Wedding Etiquette
British weddings can be formal, but they’re also deeply personal. Modern couples are finding ways to honour tradition without feeling stuck in it. For example:
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Swapping formal vows for handwritten ones.
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Hosting outdoor ceremonies followed by indoor feasts.
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Incorporating cultural traditions into the day—especially if one partner’s from abroad (fusion weddings are magic!).
The point? Make it meaningful. Make it yours.
FAQs About British Wedding Traditions
Q: Do I have to do all these traditions?
A: Nope! Pick what resonates with you. Think of them as inspiration, not a checklist.
Q: Are UK wedding receptions different from US ones?
A: Yes! UK weddings often have earlier ceremonies, longer dinners (called the “wedding breakfast”), and more formal speeches. Also, guests often stay the whole day—from vows to last dance.
Q: Do Brits really save cake for a baby’s christening?
A: Some do. Most just freeze the top tier and eat it on their anniversary while binge-watching Bridgerton. Same energy.
Final Thoughts: Tradition Meets Personality
British wedding traditions are timeless—but not rigid. Whether you’re getting married in a grand estate in Kent, a rustic barn in the Cotswolds, or a dramatic Scottish castle, there’s space for heritage, humour, and a whole lot of love.
And as someone who’s captured hundreds of weddings across the UK and Europe, I can tell you: the most unforgettable celebrations are the ones where couples blend old customs with modern flair.
Let’s Make Your Wedding Story Unforgettable
From quaint countryside chapels to seaside cliffs and stately manors—I’ve been lucky to witness it all through the lens. Your wedding day deserves to be remembered not just beautifully, but authentically.
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I’ll bring the camera, the creativity, and a sprinkle of wedding wisdom. You just bring the love.
