Weddings are meant to be a beautiful celebration of love between two people, but over the years, society has lost sight of their true purpose.
Instead of focusing on the happy couple’s love story, the big day becomes more about following some bizarre and ridiculous trends, and no one wins in that case. However, more couples—not to mention their potential guests—are finally sick of it, and they’re not afraid to say, “Enough already!” here are some of the more controversial wedding practices that are slowly fading and will hopefully be gone for good one day soon.
1. Requiring ‘cash only’ gifts
Some couples flat-out tell guests they only want money instead of any items, putting attendees in an awkward position. It can feel less like a heartfelt celebration and more like a bank transaction, especially if the couple is direct or pushy about amounts. Plus, if it’s a destination wedding or the guest is part of the wedding party, they’ve likely already shelled out plenty of cash just to be there!
While giving cash can be practical, many feel it strips away personal touches and genuine sentiment. Plus, guests might have budgets or creative gift ideas they’d rather share, so demanding money only can rub them the wrong way.
2. Over-the-top venue choices
Destination weddings at exotic locales sound dreamy, but some couples pick remote spots that cost guests a fortune in travel and lodging. Suddenly, attending becomes more of a pricey holiday you never asked for. While it’s great that the bride and groom want a picture-perfect backdrop, forcing friends and family to blow their savings just to show up can breed silent resentment. If half your loved ones can’t afford to come, was it really worth it?
3. Excessively themed weddings
It’s fun to incorporate a favourite show or era into the big day, but some go overboard—like demanding everyone wear cosplay or commit to a full renaissance outfit. Not everyone wants to stroll around in chainmail on a Saturday afternoon.
When the theme overshadows the couple itself, guests can feel they’re attending a stage production rather than a heartfelt ceremony. A subtle nod to a shared passion is charming; building a mini theme park can start to seem contrived.
4. Forbidding kids altogether
Child-free weddings are on the rise, with couples wanting a polished, adult vibe. While it’s understandable to avoid screaming toddlers during vows, outright banning all kids can stress out parents who’d prefer not to hire sitters or leave their little ones behind.
It’s especially controversial if the no-kid rule applies even to close family members. Some see it as discriminating against young families, and grandparents might be bummed if their grandkids can’t be part of the day.
5. Social media blackouts
Some couples ask guests to turn phones off or promise not to post pictures, aiming for an “unplugged wedding.” Sure, that can help everyone stay present, but it can also come off as controlling if enforced too strictly. Guests often love sharing snaps of the big day with friends who couldn’t attend. Demanding a total social media ban feels like micromanaging, especially if some people want to capture personal memories from the event. However, it’s just good manners not to post photos before the actual couple!
6. Overly long ceremonies
A wedding ceremony can be meaningful without dragging on forever. Some couples orchestrate elaborate rituals, extended speeches, or complicated vow exchanges that push the event into marathon territory. Guests might be uncomfortably seated for over an hour, sweating or bored, waiting for the reception to begin. Keeping the main event succinct can retain that emotional punch—no one wants to squirm in their chair just to see the big kiss.
7. Matching guest dress codes
We’ve seen couples asking their entire guest list to wear one colour or style, like “white only” or “1920s Great Gatsby attire.” It might look cohesive in photos, but it can be a headache and extra expense for attendees. People might feel pressured to buy outfits they’ll never wear again, just to please the bride and groom’s photo aesthetic. A gentle colour suggestion is one thing; dictating everyone’s wardrobe down to the shoes can come off as excessive.
8. Paying for your own meal
Some hosts request that attendees cover the cost of their dinner or drinks at the reception. While budget constraints are real, it’s controversial to throw a big event and then ask guests to foot the catering bill. It can create an uncomfortable vibe, as if you’re charging admission. Many feel if you invite people to celebrate your marriage, offering them food and drink should be part of the hospitality, not an optional extra they buy.
9. Extreme photo shoot demands
Weddings are prime for pictures, but some couples push bridesmaids, groomsmen, and guests into hours-long photo sessions. Standing outside in hot sun or cold wind, waiting for the perfect shot, can wear people down fast. Sure, photos matter, but making your wedding party skip meals or stay in painful heels for half the day can sour the atmosphere. A balanced schedule ensures you get gorgeous shots without turning friends into props.
10. Massive, expensive bridal parties
It used to be a few close friends by your side. Now, some brides and grooms stack a dozen or more attendants, each expected to buy expensive outfits and plan lavish bachelor or bachelorette trips. The financial strain can get real. When half your guest list is in matching suits or dresses, it can feel more like a production than an intimate circle of support. Friends who are roped in but aren’t super close might secretly resent the high costs and time demands.
11. Asking for extravagant gifts
Gift registries can be helpful, but some couples load them with high-ticket items—like designer appliances or expensive home decor—that can verge on greedy. It signals an expectation that everyone has deep pockets. Guests might feel guilty if they can’t afford the wishlist. While it’s okay to let people know your preferences, too many luxury items can seem like you’re fishing for freebies instead of celebrating togetherness.
12. Surprise second ceremonies
Some couples hold a “secret ceremony” or vow renewal during the reception, catching guests off guard. While it might sound romantic, it can disrupt the flow and leave attendees confused about what’s happening. Not everyone appreciates being part of a spontaneous event they weren’t mentally prepared for. If you truly want a double ceremony, a heads-up can make it more inclusive and keep people from feeling blindsided.
13. Making it a weekend-long event
Turning a wedding into three days of celebrations—like a welcome party, rehearsal dinner, and post-wedding brunch—means guests must commit extra holiday time and expense. For some, that’s fun; for others, it’s a huge ask. People with tight schedules or budgets might feel overwhelmed by the pressure to attend every single activity. If you’re planning multi-day events, offering flexible attendance or some free downtime can make it easier on everyone.
14. Over-the-top grand exits
Between sparkler tunnels, balloon releases, or fireworks, the dramatic send-off trend has skyrocketed. While it looks fabulous in photos, the cost and logistics can be off-putting, and some methods (like releasing balloons) pose environmental concerns. A simpler exit like waving goodbye with confetti or bubbles often comes off more genuine and eco-friendly. Keep in mind that once the vows and celebration are done, guests might be ready to leave without another high-stakes production.
