Sydney Weddings ~ Old Fashioned Weddings & Modern Engagements

How 'Modern Engagement's Work!'

The Etiquette of the Modern Engagement

Today’s pre-wedding traditions shimmer with renewed meaning. From your proposal’s perfect moment to sharing the news of your engagement, this new era of etiquette celebrates connection, family, and love—in all its sparkling forms.

 From 'Will You?' to 'We Do': Proposals That Embrace Community

Then: 

Proposals were once private, nestled into quiet corners of home or softly lit restaurants.

Now: 

They’ve blossomed into joyful public moments shared with those who matter most. Picture a serene park, a concert under the stars, or an artful setup beneath an ancient tree—each proposal now invites loved ones (and the occasional passerby) to celebrate with you in real time.

Rehearsal Dinners!

The Night Before: Rehearsal Dinners Re-imagined

Traditional Approach: 

Rehearsal dinners were once quiet, familial affairs—held the evening before the wedding with immediate family and the wedding party, typically following a ceremonial run-through at the couple’s place of worship.

Modern Moment: 

Today, the rehearsal dinner has evolved into a welcoming soirée that sets the tone for the celebration to come. Many couples embrace this gathering as a chance to greet out-of-town guests, reconnect with loved ones, and ease into festivities with warmth and joy.

Whether you opt for an intimate dinner or expand the evening into a lively welcome party, this gathering now stands as its own cherished event.

Sharing The Engagement

Love Shared & Cherished: How Engagement Announcements Evolved

Then: 

Couples once shared their joy through traditional channels—a mailed card, a newspaper ad, or a phone call to close family.

Now: 

Engagements sparkle across screens in joyful posts, sweet selfies, and giddy captions. But timeless grace still plays a role:

'Be sure to tell your nearest and dearest personally before posting publicly,” advises Mariah Grumet, founder of Old Soul Etiquette. 'There’s no replacement for hearing joyous news directly from someone you love.'

Who Pays for the Celebration?

Who Pays for the Celebration

Traditional Approach: 

Historically, the bride’s family shouldered most—if not all—of the wedding expenses, from ceremony to reception.

Modern Moment: 

Today’s couples embrace a more flexible and collaborative financial model. There’s no expectation that any one person or family carries the weight. Instead, expenses are often shared among the couple, their parents, or grandparents.

True Connection

Traditional Approach: 

Weddings once followed a fixed template: a best man for the groom, a maid of honor for the bride, with matching numbers and clearly defined gender roles—siblings or lifelong best friends were the expected picks.

Modern Moment: 

Today’s couples are rewriting the script with joyful freedom. Your wedding party now reflects the people who mean the most—whether that’s your childhood friend, your brother, or your college roommate turned soul sister.

Whether balanced or beautifully eclectic, your wedding party should reflect the vibrant tapestry of relationships that have shaped your journey. A Gown for Every Glow: Bridesmaids with Style and Choice

Traditional Approach: Bridesmaids once arrived in matching dresses—from colour to cut—creating a unified (if sometimes uncomfortable) aesthetic.

Modern Moment: Now, brides embrace individuality. Giving your bridal party the freedom to choose their own gowns—within a shared palette or style vision—means each person can shine with confidence and wear a dress that truly suits them.

However you decide to have your Engagement or Wedding, I would love to hear from you!

Call me on: 0404463664 and we can chat!

xJanet