As a Texas transplant, planning southern weddings came with a whole host of new traditions. The first time I heard of the "House Party," I was beyond confused (but intrigued). But, we dove in headfirst, and now we can get enough of these Down South customs. In today's blog post, we'll be discussing our Top 5 Southern Wedding Traditions, so put on your boots and let's scoot!
Grooms Cake
Traditionally the Groom’s cake a is a smaller more elaborately designed cake gifted to the groom. Although they’re not required, many couples choose to include them in their day as a way to incorporate the grooms personality and unique taste. The cake is also an opportunity to serve a more “basic“ cake flavor like chocolate and would serve as a great boxed favor at the end of the night. We’ve seen them all; footballs, sports logos, even a boat like the cake down below.
Photo | Silver Bear Creative
Bridals
Bridals are a pre-wedding day photoshoot where the bride can get all done up in her wedding dress to take solo pictures. These pictures can be sweet keepsakes or printed for display on wedding day. These shoots are often scheduled the same day that Brides have their hair and makeup trials so they can get the best bang for their buck. Although this typically centers around the bride, we have seen Bride + Groom. In those cases, the Bride and Groom get together and wear a more relaxed version of their wedding attire. Think no bowtie and hair down.
Photo | Amy Karp Photography
Bridal Luncheon
I know what you're thinking, another expensive pre-wedding party *eye roll*, but you're wrong, sort of! Bridal luncheons are an opportunity for Brides to celebrate their bridal party like a wedding shower, but for the sweet friends and family members who'll also be walking down the aisle. This party can be held before or after the wedding, so long as it includes those who served or are serving on the brides' side of the wedding, flower girls and all. You can even invite other women who played or will play a large role in your wedding day. People like your aunt, who made the cookie favors, or your nana who helped put together your invitation suite. The gifts for the event don't have to be extravagant; dinner or lunch on you is enough to love on your squad.
Photo | Menary Weddings
Second Line
Wedding Second Lines are fun and ultra festive ways to let the good times roll on your wedding day. Second Lines are a New Orleanian tradition that stems from West African dance circles. As it became a ritual for African Americans, the parades expanded to celebrations of new life and death. In a typical line, the guests, lead by a brass band and the couple follow a parade route whooping, hollering, swinging towels, grooving, and celebrating their newlywed status. This tradition might take a few more steps to set up (if you’re headed out to a public road, you’ll need a parade permit and barricades to keep things safe), but it’s well worth it. If you’re concerned about cultural appropriation, do your research, consult your local black-led jazz band, hire a local black-led jazz band, and ultimately make the decisions that feels the best for you.
Photo | Chelsea Kaye Photography
Southern Cuisine
If we’re honest, this is our favorite southern tradition of them all. Be it soul food, Tex-Mex, or barbeque; we can’t get enough of the DELICIOUS food. With the right catering team, your wedding food might be more popular and you. Just kidding, you’re the star, but like, make sure you have enough so that we can get seconds.
Photo | Jas & Mike