Traditions have adjusted to accommodate today's society, expenses such as the wedding ceremony and feast were usually provided by the bride's family. A low 27% of brides family claim totally this traditional practice. Today, it's discussed upon who foot the bill or who contributes what or will it go 'Dutch'. Instead of Mothers and Daughters discussing the matter, the bride and groom have their hand very much in it, more like their first attempt in working as a team.
The protocol of who wear what was signaled by the Mother of the Groom before the Mother of the Bride gets to pick. Now as a matter of fairness, bothe bothers can pick a dres suitable for them but ideally within the color palette of the motif. Mothers should have open communication about what they'd wear and not bother their children with intricacies or petty chit-chat.
Bridal gowns used to be pristine white that symbolizes virginity. Now they're still white or off white or a crème version, whatever reason it up to you to imagine…
Bouquets were white or almost white. Today they can be of the most vibrant colors and combination. The flowers are part of the wedding magic-unless the bride , groom or any guest is allergic. Don't be surprised if the bridal registry would not have the design of cutlery or bone china…since some marriages have gone through the trial living together stage, they do have household things to their name. The couple can ask guests to chip in for their dream car, a vacation cruise or a part of their house payments. Never consider this as tasteless since wedding guests are obliged to wish the couple well and help anyway they can to strengthen their union. Nothing strengthens union like having less money problems to talk about.
As much as traditions change, some don't…Always send and expect 'Thank You' cards when you've gone to a wedding. This does symbolize their happiness in having you witness their ceremony and their first official act as Mr. & Mrs. Something.
Most important: Never upstage the Bride! It's her wedding and the last thing she'd like to remember is someone stealing the thunder.