12 Things Brits Would Find Surprisingly Different About Going to a Wedding in America
If you’re from Britain and planning to attend a wedding in the States, you might find yourself surprised by a few traditions. American weddings can be quite different from what you’re used to back home. From the events leading up to the big day to the actual wedding customs, let’s walk through what makes American weddings uniquely their own.
1. Rehearsal dinners can become an entire extra celebration
In the U.S., rehearsal dinners are a big deal and often turn into a full-fledged festivity. Held usually the night before the wedding, this event isn’t just a run-through of the ceremony but a way to kick off the celebrations. Everyone from the wedding party to out-of-town guests is often invited, and the dinner can be as casual or as fancy as the couple likes. It’s a great way for everyone to mingle and relax before the main event.
2. Bridesmaids may be expected to buy matching dresses
Unlike in Britain where the bride might pay for her bridesmaids’ outfits, in America, it’s common for bridesmaids to buy their own dresses. Typically, the bride chooses the style and color, and each bridesmaid gets her dress to match the theme. This might be surprising for Brits, as it adds an extra cost to being part of a wedding.
3. Wedding parties can be enormous
Don’t be shocked to see a very large wedding party at American weddings. It’s not unusual for both the bride and the groom to have many attendants like bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers. This can sometimes result in a group as large as 20 people or more standing with the couple during their ceremony!
4. Bridal showers happen before many weddings
A bridal shower is a fun event leading up to the wedding where the bride receives gifts from her friends and family. This party is meant to help the couple set up their new home. It’s a ladies-only event filled with games, food, and bonding. It’s an American tradition that might be new to Brits.
5. Couples commonly create detailed gift registries
In America, couples often set up a gift registry with items they’d like to receive as wedding gifts, ranging from homeware to electronics. Guests can choose gifts from this list, making it easier to buy something the couple will love and actually use. For Brits, this system can seem overly organized but it’s very helpful!
6. Cash bars can be more accepted in some regions and social circles
While it might be more common in Britain to have an open bar at weddings, in the U.S., especially in certain regions or among specific social circles, having a cash bar is quite accepted. Guests pay for their own drinks, which can definitely be a bit of a surprise if you’re not expecting it!
7. Groomsmen may rent matching tuxedos
Just like bridesmaids, groomsmen in the U.S. are also expected to match. However, they usually rent their tuxedos rather than buying them. This makes it easier to ensure everyone looks coordinated without the groomsmen having to invest in a new suit.
8. The ceremony and reception can happen at completely different venues
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself traveling from the ceremony to the reception at a completely different location. Many American weddings feature a church or outdoor ceremony followed by a reception at a banquet hall or another venue. This transition might involve a bit of travel, which is something to plan for.
9. Wedding traditions vary dramatically between states and communities
The U.S. is diverse, and so are its wedding traditions. Depending on the state or the cultural background of the couple, you could experience anything from a traditional Native American ceremony to a classic Southern bash. This variety is one of the things that makes American weddings so unique!
10. Guests may travel across the country to attend
Due to the size of the United States, it’s not uncommon for guests to fly from different parts of the country to attend a wedding. This often turns weddings into weekend-long events where guests have time to catch up and celebrate together beyond just the wedding day.
11. The couple may have several wedding-related events before the actual day
American weddings often involve multiple events leading up to the main ceremony. From engagement parties to rehearsal dinners and bridal showers, the build-up can last several months and include various celebrations with family and friends.
12. A wedding weekend can start on Friday and continue until Sunday
Lastly, don’t be shocked to find that an American wedding can span an entire weekend. Starting with a welcome gathering on Friday, the actual wedding on Saturday, and concluding with a brunch on Sunday, the festivities are extended to maximize the time spent with loved ones.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.