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Cover The anti-bride and groom (Photo: Kyonntra / Getty Images)
Kyonntra for Getty Images

Long-held beliefs about weddings are changing. Meet the anti-bride, who prioritises sustainable and creative weddings above all else

Weddings have always been exciting celebrations for couples and guests alike. But as we move through the post-pandemic landscape, the conversation around weddings has changed drastically. You no longer need a big white gown, a bouquet toss, and a honeymoon to top things off. For today’s ‘anti-brides’, weddings are a much more personalised experience. 

The anti-bride trend emerged once people started questioning traditional wedding customs. Some people don’t feel that ostentatious weddings reflect their unique relationships or personality traits. 

Some couples prefer weddings that feel like their daily lives but with an elegant twist. From unique cake designs to fun reception activities, here are some tips to plan your anti-bride’s dream wedding.

Read more: Are lavish weddings back? 

The engagement

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Photo 1 of 4 The Toi et Moi Rustic Hexagon and Emerald Cut White Diamond Ring by Sarah O
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Photo 3 of 4 The Lee Oval Emerald Side Diamond Ring by Sarah O
Photo 4 of 4 The Eileen Long Hexagon Teal Sapphire Ring by Sarah O
The Toi et Moi Rustic Hexagon and Emerald Cut White Diamond Ring by Sarah O
The Lee Oval Emerald Side Diamond Ring by Sarah O
The Eileen Long Hexagon Teal Sapphire Ring by Sarah O

A personalised touch sets these types of weddings apart. Every detail is planned depending on the unique needs of each couple. Some couples may even remove the element of surprise when planning their engagement. That might not work for every couple, but that’s the point.  

Some couples may even prefer unique engagement rings. Beyond the traditional diamond, many jewellers would gladly create rings to suit different personalities. 

More from Tatler: Permanent jewellery: The fashion innovation that’s here to stay
 

Outfits

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Photo 1 of 8 Esther by Danielle Frankel
Photo 2 of 8 Anita by Danielle Frankel
Photo 3 of 8 Mariel Dress by Lein
Photo 4 of 8 Lia by Cecilie Bahnsen
Photo 5 of 8 Leonard Trousers by Home of Hai
Photo 6 of 8 Kerry Dress by Sandy Liang
Photo 7 of 8 Moodstone Overlap Tank Dress by Christopher Esber
Photo 8 of 8 Ribbed Leather Tank Dress by Christopher Esber
Esther by Danielle Frankel
Anita by Danielle Frankel
Mariel Dress by Lein
Lia by Cecilie Bahnsen
Leonard Trousers by Home of Hai
Kerry Dress by Sandy Liang
Moodstone Overlap Tank Dress by Christopher Esber
Ribbed Leather Tank Dress by Christopher Esber

The couple may veer from traditional options like long gowns and black tuxedos at the wedding. They can opt for bold colours and patterns. They may even want to look into more casual options, such as pantsuits. 

As for the shoes, the sky is truly the limit. Some anti-brides may opt for more comfortable shoes that make dancing and mingling with guests a breeze. 

In case you missed it: Barbara Palvin weds in a stunning Vivienne Westwood corset gown—here’s how to get the look
 

Venues

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Serhii Sobolevskyi for Getty Images
Above Serhii Sobolevskyi for Getty Images
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Gorodenkoff for Getty Images
Above Gorodenkoff for Getty Images
Serhii Sobolevskyi for Getty Images
Gorodenkoff for Getty Images

These days, there are infinite possibilities for where a wedding can be held. The key to finding the perfect option is a deep understanding of the couple. Some may still prefer traditional ballrooms, but others may prefer unique venues like art galleries, libraries, or bowling alleys. After all, a wedding is a time for the couple to fill the space with special memories—no matter where they are. 

Decorations

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Carolin Voelker for Getty Images
Above Carolin Voelker for Getty Images
Carolin Voelker for Getty Images

Some couples may want to be more sustainable with their decorations, opting for reused or repurposed ones. 

The anti-bride may also opt for flower arrangements that are locally sourced and personally meaningful. Even if the colours clash, understanding the personal meaning behind each flower will undoubtedly elevate the bouquet. Other exciting materials like dried flowers, herbs, succulents, and branches can also make the bouquet one of a kind.

Food

Gone are the days of sit-down dinners and buffets. Modern weddings often focus on food stations celebrating the couple’s unique cultural backgrounds. For a casual atmosphere, they can even opt for food trucks or family-style meals.  

Some couples even have signature cocktails on hand. These drinks are often connected to memories and milestones in the couple’s life together. There also tend to be non-alcoholic beverages that are just as delicious. This ensures that every guest can join in on the fun. 

And to top things off, the cake is entirely customisable–or it can be removed altogether. Some couples may prefer having a dessert bar for guests to choose from. 

Photography

Nowadays, candid shots are all the rage. Instead of sitting the couple down for a staged shot, some couples prefer to capture every unfiltered moment. These documentary-style shots of people having fun and being themselves will make for precious mementoes of this event.  

The guests’ experience

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Klaus Vedfelt for Getty Images
Above Klaus Vedfelt for Getty Images
Klaus Vedfelt for Getty Images

Some anti-brides have banned activities like the bouquet toss and the garter removal, removing the pressure such activities may bring. 

Instead, they can find ways to connect with guests during the wedding. They can make the night unforgettable for everyone with fun games and performances. 

At night's end, they may even prefer a scrapbook instead of the traditional guest book. Within the book, people can share their favourite memories with the couple. 

The couple’s experience

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Vows & Peaks Website
Above Vows & Peaks Website
Vows & Peaks Website

Before anything else, the wedding is about the couple. Some couples may want to spend the night before the wedding together to reassure one another before the festivities. Instead of getting ready alone, they may feel anchored by getting dressed in each other’s presence. 

The wedding ceremony can also be changed to suit each couple. Some people may want to walk down the aisle alone or with their partner, with a loved one, or not at all. Whatever feels most empowering to them is the best way to celebrate their special day. 

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Topics

Celine Dabao
Associate Editor for Tatler Homes, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia
Celine Dabao

About 

Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.  


Work 

Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.  

For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.