British Wedding Traditions: What You Need to Know
British Wedding Traditions and How They’ve Changed
Weddings in the UK have a long history, and while some traditions have stood the test of time, others have evolved or disappeared completely. If you’re planning a wedding and wondering which traditions to keep and which to ditch, you’re in the right place. I’ve filmed plenty of weddings and seen couples embrace, adapt, or totally ignore these customs – and honestly, I love when people make their wedding their own.
So, let’s dive into some classic British wedding traditions, where they come from, and whether they still have a place in modern weddings.
The White Wedding Dress
Where It Comes From
Back in the day, brides just wore their best dress—whatever colour it was. That changed in 1840 when Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in a white dress, setting the trend that’s still going strong today.
How It’s Changing
White and ivory are still the most popular choices, but coloured wedding dresses are on the rise, especially for second weddings or older brides. Some go for blush pinks, champagne tones, or even black for a bold statement.
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Giving Away the Bride
Where It Comes From
Historically, this tradition dates back to when women were considered their father’s property, passed on to their new husband (yep, pretty outdated). The bride also stood on the left so the groom’s right hand—his sword hand—was free to defend against any last-minute suitors.
How It’s Changing
Nowadays, brides are rethinking this tradition. Some still walk down the aisle with their dad, but others choose their mum, sibling, both parents, or even go solo (like Meghan Markle did). There’s no right or wrong way—it’s about what feels right for you.
For same-sex and gender-neutral couples, the traditional “giving away” format often doesn’t apply in the same way. Many couples choose to walk down the aisle together, symbolising their equal partnership. Others might be accompanied by a loved one, or make a solo entrance to embrace the moment independently. Some even opt for an aisle-free ceremony, where they simply join their guests and begin the celebration naturally. The beauty of modern weddings is that you can tailor every aspect to fit your relationship, rather than following outdated expectations.
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Where It Comes From
This old superstition suggests a bride needs these four things for luck:
- Something old – represents continuity (often a family heirloom)
- Something new – symbolises the future (usually the dress or shoes)
- Something borrowed – reminds the bride she has support from loved ones
- Something blue – represents loyalty and fidelity (often a garter or ribbon)
- A silver sixpence in her shoe – meant to bring wealth and happiness (though not many people do this one anymore)
How It’s Changing
Most couples still like this tradition, but they mix it up. Some use a tattoo as their ‘something blue’ or borrow jewellery from a friend. It’s a fun way to add personal meaning to the day.
The Wedding Cake
Where It Comes From
The wedding cake tradition goes way back to medieval times when couples would stack sweet bread rolls and try to kiss over them for luck. Later, it evolved into a fruitcake (which used to be the standard).
How It’s Changing
Nowadays, couples are ditching fruitcake in favour of flavoured sponges, cupcakes, macaron towers, or even cheese wheels. The multi-tiered design has stuck around, but the fillings and styles are way more creative.
The First Dance
Where It Comes From
The first dance tradition comes from formal balls, where the guests of honour (often royalty) opened the dancefloor. It later became a wedding tradition where the groom danced with his new bride.
How It’s Changing
The first dance is still popular, but not everyone wants the spotlight. Some couples do choreographed routines, while others bring their guests onto the dancefloor straight away. Some skip it entirely—again, it’s all about what works for you.
Not Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony & The Veil
Where It Comes From
This comes from the days of arranged marriages, where the bride and groom often didn’t meet until the ceremony. The veil was used to keep the bride hidden—just in case the groom wanted to back out last minute!
How It’s Changing
Many couples live together before marriage, so this tradition is becoming less important. Some still love the excitement of seeing each other for the first time at the altar, while others do a ‘first look’ shoot before the ceremony.
FAQs: British Wedding Traditions & Wedding Videography
Do I Have to Follow These Traditions in My Wedding Video?
Not at all! Your wedding film should reflect your personality and the way you celebrate your day. At HC Visuals, I focus on capturing real moments—whether you go traditional or throw out the rulebook.
How Do Wedding Traditions Affect the Flow of the Day?
Traditions like the first dance, cake cutting, or speeches help structure the day, which can be helpful for videography. But I always work around what’s important to you, so if you skip some traditions, I’ll still make sure your film tells your unique story.
What’s the Best Way to Capture a ‘First Look’ on Video?
A first look can be an amazing moment to capture on film—whether it’s the couple seeing each other before the ceremony or a parent seeing their child in wedding attire for the first time. I always recommend finding a private, well-lit space to make it intimate and visually stunning.
How Do You Film a Wedding That Breaks Tradition?
Every wedding is different, and I adapt to whatever style suits you. Whether you’re having a casual backyard wedding, eloping, or throwing a rock-and-roll-themed celebration, I’ll make sure your film reflects the vibe of your day.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Wedding Your Own
The best weddings are the ones that feel like you. Traditions can be fun, but they shouldn’t be rules. Pick the ones that mean something to you, change them up, or ditch them altogether.
And if you’re looking for a wedding videographer who gets that? HC Visuals is here to capture your day, your way.
Ready to talk about your wedding film? Get in touch!
Web: www.hc-visuals.com/contact
Email: scott@hc-visuals.com
Instagram: @hcvisualsweddingfilms
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